Groningen
Cycling
Guide




Let's Cycle

Cycling in Groningen is fun





Cycling in Groningen can seem scary at first glance. Groups of tens of cyclists are rushing through intersections, speedy bikers maneuver between others, and cyclists appear from all directions.


But if you stick to the following rules, you will quickly find out that in Groningen the bike is your best friend. You’ll arrive anywhere so conveniently and quickly that you’ll forget you’ve ever wanted to have a car.




You don’t need a bike helmet





Maybe in your home country it is obligatory to wear a helmet when cycling, but here in the Netherlands you just don’t need to do it.


Having said that, we’d definitely urge you to wear a helmet when you go for a sporty ride.



Have front and back lights





Make sure you equip your bike with both front and back lights. Even if you think you don’t need them, that’s the law.


Lack of lighting is fined up to 55EUR. A high price to pay, especially when comparing to the cost of brand new front and back lights.



Signal when you turn





When you take a turn, you should signal. You don’t have to carry out the entire gesture you have been taught in primary school. Simply point to the right or left with the respective hand.


Look at the nonchalant way that locals signal before turning. They do it effortlessly, and after a couple of days, you will as well.



Keep to the right





When you cycle alone, do so on the right side of the bike lane. When you want to overtake a slower cyclist, use the left side, and then return to the right.


When cycling alongside a friend, make sure you are not blocking the lane for faster cyclists.



Green from all directions





Several intersections in Groningen give green lights to cyclists from all directions at the same time. It may sound chaotic, but it is surprisingly efficient and safe.


When entering an intersection with the ‘tegelijk groen’ (Green at the same time) logo, always give priority to cyclists from your right side.



Lock your bike to a solid object





Bike theft is common in the Netherlands. In Groningen the situation is even worse. The local authorities advise to lock your bike with two locks. We recommend a back-wheel lock and additional chain.


When you leave your bike outside, especially at night, lock it to a solid object. Otherwise, your bike will likely get stolen.



Remember where you left your bike





Finding your parked bike in Groningen can prove to be a hard task. You’ll normally remember approximately where you’ve left it, but many times it’s like finding a needle in a haystack.


Develop a method to find and recognize your bike: some mark their bicycles in a distinct color, others just make a mental note of the exact location of their bike.



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LIOR STEINBERG


lior@lvbcity.com