January 2, 2012
Crash Course in Amsterdam Bike Safety: Top 5 Tips
Amsterdam gives the phrase “look both ways before you cross the street” a whole new meaning. For many travelers, it takes a near-death experience and a serious adrenaline rush as you come within inches of colliding with a quickly pedaling biker to realize how important this is. Biking is a way of life in Amsterdam. In a city where there are more bikes than people, bike safety (and pedestrian safety) is not something to take lightly. Two-lane bike paths are painted onto the sides of most larger streets and are always busy with a steady flow of bikers. They move fast, and don’t slow down for the spacey tourist. Watch out and be safe.
When in Rome, do as the Romans do. Renting bicycles is one of the best ways to see the city and explore neighboring towns. Don’t be discouraged by the city’s intimidating bike network and fast-paced cyclists. Just do your research and be safe. Here are the top 5 bicycle safety tips when riding a rented rig around Amsterdam.
Stay to the Right: Just like in America, the Dutch use the right side of the road. Since you will likely be a slower rider itching to check out the scenery on your ride, stick to the right side of the bike lane as well. Faster riders will pass you on the left. Never come to a complete stop in traffic. This causes a dangerous obstacle for other bikers, and you will not be popular with other cyclists.
Know the Signs: Bikers abide by road signs as well as special bikers-only signs and signals. Watch out for bike traffic lights, because they don’t always match the lights for automobiles.
Yield: As a general rule of thumb, yield to traffic approaching on the right. For all trams and city vehicles, yield at all times. Watch out for tram tracks on the road as well. Catch your tire in a rut and you’ll likely go flying.
Signal: When turning, always use your hands to signal which direction you’re moving. No need to be technical, just simply point in the direction you are turning to give other bikes and vehicles the heads up.
No Bike Parking Signs: Amsterdam is bikes galore. Hundreds of bikes often line sidewalks and pathways. Look for signs that say Hier geen fietsen plaatsen (“Do not park bikes here”). If you fail to obey these signs, your bike might be a goner.
Follow these rules and be careful. It might be scary at first, but renting bikes is the best way to see the city. Happy biking!
Photo credits: Bicycle for beer at Van Gogh, Quasimagyar, We rode our bikes up to the highest cloud, MarcelGermain; Bicycles, Amsterdam, RGS-IBG Urban Geography Research Group; Amsterdam bikes, web4camguy.
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