Stadt Münster, Bicycles
Welcome to Münster in Westphalia
Content
Bicycles
Münster is a city of bicycles, and the "Leeze", as it is known in Münster dialect, is the most frequently used means of transport. Bicycles constitute 37.6 per cent of traffic in Münster. In 2007, the amount of vehicle traffic fell to 36.4 percent, making it lower than the bicycle traffic statistics for the first time. These statistics are unique in Germany. The bicycle network is extremely well signposted with red and white signs.
- For an initial overview of the cycle path network and the traffic regulations for cyclists, please visit:
www.muenster.de/stadt/stadtplanung/radverkehr.html - Bicycle maps are available in bookshops and from the Münster Information Point, which is located in Stadthaus 1, Heinrich-Brüning-Straße 9.
Bicycle parking options
Visitors and new citizens alike are often amazed at the endless rows of bicycles parked at the main railway station and in the Old Town. Those parking bicycles should ensure that pavements and slip roads are not obstructed in the process. Cyclists can make use of two bicycle parks to ensure that their two-wheelers are stored safely during their absence. Bicycle repair and rental services are also available at these unique facilities.
- Radstation Münster (Münster Bicycle Station), Berliner Platz 27a (in front of the main railway station) Germany’s largest multi-storey bicycle park, with 3,300 parking spaces. Tel. 02 51/ 4 84 01 70
www.muenster.de/stadt/radstation - Radstation Münster-Arkaden (Münster Arcades Bicycle Station), Königsstraße 7. Tel. 02 51 / 7 03 67 90
Purchasing bicycles
The correct bicycle is essential in order to ensure that cycling is fun, comfortable and safe. Tips on tailoring bicycle size to height and choosing the correct equipment can be obtained from: www.adfc.de
Specialist dealers in over 60 bicycle stores are on stand by with moral and practical support. Second-hand bicycles are also auctioned on a regular basis at discounted prices.
- Information and auction dates:
Citizens’ Advice Bureau
Tel. 02 51 / 6 06 88 46
E-mail fundbuero@stadt-muenster.de
www.muenster.de/stadt/buergeramt/fund-versteigerungen.html - Those wishing to purchase second-hand and new bicycles online should visit: http://www.leeze24.de/
Bicycle rental
Bicycles can be rented from bicycle stations, many bicycle dealers and other suppliers. A list of rental points and prices is available at:
www.muenster.de/stadt/tourismus/en/city-of-bikes.html
www.muenster.de/stadt/tourismus/en/bike-rental.html
Cycling code
- Cycle paths or lanes are a staple feature of main roads in and around Münster. These also link all the city districts with the inner city.
- There are also special traffic light signals for cyclists at crossroads. Cyclists are frequently guided over main junctions with their own "green light periods" and "cycle bridges".
- The promenade is an attractive avenue for cyclists and pedestrians which encircles the Old Town.
- The general speed limit in residential areas is 30 km per hour. This promotes the orderly co-existence of all road users and increases quality of life in built-up areas.
- In contrast to car drivers, cyclists may ride in both directions on "artificial one-way streets" which are marked as such. However, those caught cycling in the wrong direction on genuine one-way streets are obliged to pay a 15 euro fine.
- Cyclists may use the bus lane on combined bus and cycle lanes, e.g. by the main railway station.
- As a rule, pedestrian zones are opened for cycle traffic at night. Signs inform cyclists of the precise access times. Bicycles should be pushed outside these times. Those who cycle in pedestrian zones during the daytime should reckon with a possible 10 euro fine.
- Cyclists have priority over car drivers on cycle routes. However, it is necessary to show consideration for others here, too.
In the case of traffic violations
Cyclists have no airbag and are vulnerable if involved in a collision. These facts alone constitute good reasons for cyclists to comply with traffic regulations - for their own safety. Traffic violations are punished by fines. Here is an excerpt from the "price list":
- Cycling along cycle paths in the wrong direction: 15 euros
- Using a mobile phone while cycling: 15 euros
- Cycling with headphones or ear plugs: 10 euros
- Cycling “hands-free“: 10 euros
- Cycling without a bell or a rear reflector: 10 euros
- Cycling at night without lights: 10 euros
- Cycling through a red light after over a second has passed: 125 euros, 4 points and one month’s driving ban
- Cycling with a blood alcohol level of 1.6: disqualification from driving
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