Ride Tasmania
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Bike lights
Be seen
All bike riders must use front and rear lights at night or in low visibility conditions. Effective bike lights are essential to help other road users see you while you are riding in dark conditions.
It’s also law – Australian road rules require you to have a front white and rear red light visible from at least 200 metres.
Helpful resources
Positioning your bike
Riding two abreast
Riding two abreast (within 1.5 metres of each other) can improve your visibility and safety when riding in a group.
On some roads, riding in single file may be more appropriate to allow other road users to pass you at a safe distance. It is always important to ride to the conditions.
Helpful resources
Footpaths
Riding on footpaths is legal in Tasmania, and may be preferable in busy or high speed road environments.
In city centres, local laws may prohibit cycling on footpaths between certain times.
Whenever riding on the footpath, you must ride at a slower speed than on roads, and always give way to pedestrians and vulnerable users.
Helpful resources
Distance makes the difference
In 2018, Tasmania legislated that drivers must pass people riding bicycles at a safe distance.
For speeds lower that 60 km, the required passing distance is 1 metre.
For speeds higher than 60 km, the required passing distance is 1.5 metres.
Helpful resources
Helmets
Wearing a helmet is compulsory in Tasmania. If there are cultural, medical, or religious reasons you can’t wear a helmet, you can apply for an exemption permit from the Tasmanian Transport Commissioner.
The fine in Tasmania in 2020-21 for not wearing a helmet is $344.
Helpful resources
Tasmanian Road Rules for Cyclists
Following local road laws is the best thing you can do to have a safe journey.
This includes stopping at red lights and riding on the left side of the road, just as you do in your car.
Helpful resources
Tasmanian Governments Road Rules Handbook
Hobart Community Legal Service Rules Specifically for Cyclists
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