About Bicycle Path Signs
What are Bicycle Path Signs?
Bicycle Path Signs are signs that are used on roadways, separated bikeways, and shared-use paths. These signs remind drivers that bicyclists are on the road and also mark sections of the road dedicated to bicycle use. In this category, you will find general and destination Bicycle Path Signs as well as relevant Regulatory, Crossing, and Warning Signs.
What are some common sizes for Bicycle Path Signs?
Bicycle Path Signs that are placed on separated bikeways and shared-use paths tend to be smaller than signs that are used in roads and highways. According to the MUTCD, diamond-shaped signs on separated bikeways or shared-use paths may be 18”x18” in size. Larger signs can be used when signs need to be more visible.
Can Bicycle Path Signs be customized?
Bicycle Path Destination Signs can be customized, but all other Bicycle Path Signs are not customizable. The MUTCD mentions that modifying Bicycle Path Signs may confuse bicyclists and drivers, making the roadway less safe. Only standardized Bicycle Path Signs are permitted for use.
How can I customize Bicycle Path Destination Signs?
Contact us to customize the distance, destination, and overall appearance of Bicycle Path Destination Signs. We can also print your custom logo onto these signs and ensure they remain MUTCD-compliant.
Are Bicycle Path Signs retroreflective?
Yes, all signs in this category are retroreflective, as required by the MUTCD. Even smaller signs used on separated bikeways or shared-use paths must be manufactured with either high-intensity prismatic or full-cube prismatic sheeting.
Mounting Bicycle Path Signs
What is the minimum mounting height for Bicycle Path Signs?
The minimum post mounting height for Bicycle Path Signs on shared-use paths is 4 ft. For signs that apply to both motorists and bicyclists, standard roadway mounting heights are required.
Where should I place Bicycle Path Signs?
On shared-use paths, Bicycle Path Signs must be placed at least 2 ft. away from the near edge of the path according to the MUTCD. On all paths, Bicycle Path Signs should be placed or angled away from a driver’s direct sight.
Can I use an 18”x18” Stop Sign on the road?
18”x18” Stop Signs and other small signs are MUTCD-approved for bicycle paths only. They can’t be used on regular roads.
Definitions
What is a “bicycle lane”?
A bicycle lane is a portion of a roadway reserved for bicycle use. Bicycle lanes are marked with bicycle symbols, arrows, or “Bike Lane” text. They are typically set apart with a solid white line and highlighted by nearby signs.
What are “separated bikeways” and “shared-use paths”?
“Separated bikeways” and “shared-use paths” are MUTCD designations for two types of paths that bicycles can travel on. A separated bikeway is a path reserved only for bicycle use. There is a physical separation between the main roadway and separated bikeways. These paths are also known as “separated bicycle lanes.” A shared-use path can be used by bicyclists, pedestrians—including skaters, wheelchair users, and joggers—and small, low-speed transportation devices. Motor vehicles are not allowed on a bike path.
Are bicycles allowed to use the main road?
Yes. Bicycles are considered vehicles by the MUTCD, so bicyclists have a right to the roadways that motorists use. Bicycles are allowed on most roadways, but they aren’t allowed on interstates and other high-speed roadways.
What are green bike lanes?
Traditional bike lanes are typically painted with white paint; however, new green-colored bicycle road markings are becoming increasingly common on major streets. The green lane markings highlight areas on the road where bike traffic and vehicles may share the same lane. The green bike lanes may include familiar bike symbols and dotted lines. Shared lane markings provide notice to both bicycle traffic and motor vehicles that they may encounter each other. Section 3H.06 of the MUTCD gives detailed guidance for the placement of bike symbols on roadway travel lanes. Traditional bicycle road markings indicate where bicycle traffic is allowed to legally ride, while the new green bike lanes warn cyclists of motorists merging into the same lane. Green bike lanes often feature bike signs that help draw attention to changes in the bike route.
How much distance must you keep between the vehicles and the bicycle traffic?
Many transportation officials recommend maintaining a minimum distance of at least three feet between motorists and cyclists. Many towns have signs that alert motorists to the minimum distance they should maintain.
What is a buffered bike lane?
A buffered bike lane is an area of the road that has extra separation between the bicycle traffic and motor vehicles. The purpose is to provide additional space between the bicycle and the car. Protected bikeways offer more safety than buffered bike lanes because they have an exclusive, physically separated lane that is a designated bike route for cyclists.
How can parked cars pose a danger to cyclists?
A parked car or stopped vehicles near a bike lane can pose a threat to bicyclists when a car door is opened quickly, potentially putting the rider in its path. The danger area around a car is often referred to as the "door zone". The risk of collision is amplified when the door is opened quickly, giving the rider very little notice and a short time to react. Bicyclists should maintain a distance greater than the "door zone" between them and the motorized vehicle. Even at slow speeds, a collision between a car and a bicycle can be extremely dangerous.
Do bicycle riders need to obey traffic signals and road signs?
Yes, they need to follow all the rules of the road. For example, a bicyclist should not navigate through an intersection until the traffic signal turns green. Bicycle riders are also required to obey traffic signs, use proper technique when changing lanes, and never travel the wrong way against street traffic. Other vehicles must also respect the solid lines and dotted lines when attempting to pass a biker. Additionally, riders should pay additional attention at signalized intersections due to the fact that bicycle road markings and specific bicycle road signs may be installed to show where riders are best positioned for safety and optimal viewing of the traffic control devices. Bicyclists should be observant of pedestrians in intersections to ensure they have a safe crossing, and they should always give the right of way to emergency vehicles.
Should bicyclists drive on the sidewalk?
Many jurisdictions strictly prohibit this due to the risk of injury to pedestrians. Bicycles should use the traditional traffic lanes on the street and operate in the same manner as if they were motorists. The bike rider should be as far to the right of the full lane as possible and be courteous to other road users and pedestrians.
Where can I find more information about Bicycle Path Signs?
You can find more information on selecting, placing, and mounting Bicycle Path Signs in Part 9 of the MUTCD.
