Cyclists need to heed the Highway Code just like all other road users, though some inconsiderate riders regularly break it by cycling through red lights and on pavements. But you face prosecution if caught. In the Highway Code there are 23 Rules for Cyclists – 59 to 82. The Code is not of itself a statement of the law, but a combination of both advice and mandatory rules.  

Here is a selection of the most pertinent rules in the HC for cyclists. 

Clothing 
Rule 59 states that a cycle helmet should be worn which conforms to current regulations, is the correct size and securely fastened. You should also wear reflective clothing and/or accessories in the dark.

Lights
At night your bike must have white front and red rear lights lit according to Rule 60. It must also be fitted with a red rear reflector and have amber pedal reflectors if manufactured after 1/10/85.

Cycle lanes
Use of cycle lanes is not compulsory. Rule 63 of the HC does not say that cyclists should use them, merely that “they can make your journey safer”.

Pavements 
You must not cycle on a pavement is the emphatic statement of Rule 64.

Group riding
Rule 66 says you should never ride more than two abreast. “Should” is advisory, but “never” sounds like it’s directory, leading some drivers and police officers to assume that riding more than two abreast is illegal when it isn’t. 

Passengers 
As Boris Johnson discovered in 2015, giving your wife a backie on your bike is an offence and offenders can be fined up to £200. Rule 68 states it is  illegal to carry more than one person on a bicycle unless your cycle has been built or adapted to carry one. 

Drink and drugs  
Rule 68 also prohibits you from riding when under the influence of drink or drugs, including medicine. Cycling while unfit through drink or drugs carries a fine up to £1,000. 

Dangerous cycling  
Rule 68 further says you must not ride in a dangerous, careless or inconsiderate manner, which means without due care and attention or reasonable consideration for other road users (£1,000 max fine), or dangerously £2,500 max fine. 

Traffic lights  
Rule 69 states that you must obey all traffic signs and traffic light signals. Crossing the stop line when the traffic lights are red is an offence which is liable for a fixed penalty notice fine (typically £50).  

Brakes  
Though omitted from the HC, it is an offence to ride a bicycle on a public road without two efficient braking systems, operating independently on the front and rear wheel. 

Stay safe and keep cycling.

View: gov.uk/guidance/the-highway-code/rules-for-cyclists-59-to-82 for further information.