Cycling is more than ever the way to get around. But how do you cycle in this corona period and what is allowed and what is not?  We list the latest info and give you some advice.

Main TIPS

• Keep as much distance from each other as possible.
• If you overtake someone, take a wide turn. 
• Wait behind and not next to a traffic light.
• Choose a quiet time to cycle.
• Try to avoid busy cycle routes.
• Take good care of your bike. 
• Go cycling alone, or do it with someone who lives under the same roof and no more than 2 other persons. 

    
CAN I STILL CYCLE?

Yes, cycling is allowed for essential journeys or to keep moving. Cycling keeps you healthy and is the best remedy for traffic jams. However, you have to start from where you live. You should also cycle at a distance where you can get back home quickly if necessary. Keep at least 1.5 metres away from other cyclists and pedestrians as much as possible. If possible, choose quiet moments and quiet routes. 

CAN I TRAVEL BY CAR TO GO CYCLING SOMEWHERE?

No, you can't. You can only take the car for essential journeys. And preferably do as many of those trips by bike as possible. That's a lot healthier :) 

CAN I CYCLE TO WORK?

The bicycle is the ideal means of transport for those who still have to go to work, even if teleworking is recommended. The bicycle is currently the preferred means of transport as on the train or the bus your chances of having contact with other people are bigger.

WHAT SHOULD I PAY ATTENTION TO WHEN CYCLING?

Keep as much distance as possible. If you overtake someone, take a wide turn. Avoid busy routes and narrow two-way cycle paths if possible and adjust your cycling behaviour to avoid getting close to others. Watch out and don't take any unnecessary risks. Don't empty your nose in the street but blow your nose in a paper handkerchief and throw it in a trash can as soon as possible. And, take care of each other. In these times a lot of people are (re)discovering the bicycle. Be friendly and courteous to each other so cycling can be fun for everyone!

WHAT IF THERE IS NOT ENOUGH SPACE?

If the bike path is too narrow, you can overtake it on the road (if it's safe). 

The Fietsersbond is currently advocating more space for cyclists and pedestrians. Some cities such as Brussels and Ghent (and abroad Berlin and Milan) have already taken concrete measures for this. 

CAN I CYCLE IN A GROUP?

No, cycling is only allowed with people who live under the same roof, or with a maximum of two other persons. Provided the social distancing of 1.5 metres is respected.  

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I HAVE TO WAIT IN FRONT OF A BUSY TRAFFIC LIGHT?

At a traffic light, wait well behind each other instead of next to each other. After cycling, wash your hands well, especially if you have touched buttons of traffic control systems, for example. Often you can also operate these buttons with your elbow. You can also put on gloves, but watch out by touching your face while cycling. Use the traffic light to build up the distance between you and a cyclist in front of you. Wait a few seconds and let the cyclists in front drive away, so that there is enough distance between you.

CAN I HAVE MY BIKE REPAIRED?

Bicycle repairers may carry out urgent repairs by appointment and on condition that they respect the rules of hygiene and social distancing. Do you need your bike for essential journeys and do you need it repaired?  If so, contact your local bike dealer and check if he works by appointment. Not all bicycle dealers offer this service at the moment. There is currently no general overview map of who works and who does not. For Brussels, Ghent and Tienen you can already consult an overview of dealers who carry out repairs. 

Source: www.fietsersbond.be