Naked Family Points
Hop on your bike and into nature. A mountain bike trip could be so easy. But be careful – in Austria, cycling through forests and woodlands is strictly regulated. However, since this spring, a change to the current regulations has been under consideration. In this blog, you'll learn what the change of the restrictions for cyclists might look like and where you're allowed to ride a mountain bike in Austria.
The current rules for mountain bikes in Austria
There is currently a general ban on all bicycles in Austria's forests. This applies regardless of whether the bicycle is powered by a motor or not. Riding in the forest is only permitted on designated trails and forest roads. Anyone who violates this rule can expect administrative fines of up to 150 euros and civil lawsuits. Therefore, if you want to be on the safe side, you should check in advance whether the planned mountain bike route is actually permitted. Appropriate signage explicitly designating a forest road as a cycle path provides clarity on site.
Find a good overview of all public mountain bikes trails in Austria here.
Rules of conduct for mountain bikers
In addition to obeying applicable laws, mountain bikers should also follow the following rules of conduct to ensure safe off-road riding for themselves, other cyclists, and the environment.
Always ride in a manner that does not endanger yourself or others. Should something happen, it is recommended to take out liability insurance.
Follow the road traffic regulations. Ride on the right side of the trail whenever possible and ensure you do not consume any substances that could impair your ability to ride.
Respect nature. Do not make unnecessary noise and do not leave trash behind. When cycling, avoid unnecessary sudden braking to avoid over-stressing the trails.
An Austria-wide change in the law
Mountain biking is enjoying increasing popularity, which is why the sport's economic and tourism potential has also been recognized by politicians. At the IMBA Europe Summit (International Mountain Bike Association), the goal of further promoting mountain biking was decided upon. To achieve this, the following four strategies for the coming years were adopted:
- Improving the image of mountain bikers, especially for landowners and conservationists.
- Sustainable land use through mountain bike trails.
- The creation of a central contact point for all mountain bikers.
- Standardization of regulations for the expansion of land use by mountain bikers.
Here you can find one more detailed report to the different measures of the IMBA.
Representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture and Sports, as well as experts in economics, climate protection, and tourism, are currently developing a strategy and coordinating it with the landowners of forest areas. We will, of course, keep you updated on the progress of the planned changes.
Credits: Florian Dorn