Amsterdam, Netherlands

Cycling Tips

• If renting a bike, make sure that it has hand brakes rather than old-fashioned backpedal breaks. These can take some getting used to!
• Make sure the bike is in good working order before cycling away. Check the tires breaks and lights for problems. Also, make sure the seat has been adjusted to a comfortable height.
• Local cyclists will break the rules and go through red lights. As a visitor, it’s probably better to stick to the rules to avoid fines the police.
  Watch out for the tram tracks when cycling in Amsterdam. If you need to cross tram tracks, do so at an angle so that your wheels don’t get stuck in the grooves.
• Always give way to traffic coming from the right – unless you see small white triangles painted on the road indicating you have right away.
• Make sure you have your lights switched on at night time to avoid getting fined. White on the front and red at the back.
• Don’t cycle on pavements and in pedestrian areas. Get off and push your bike.
• Make sure your bike is well locked. If possible use two locks.
• Dutch motorists show respect to cyclists and are very aware. However, don’t assume that all motorists are Dutch, particularly in Amsterdam!