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 39 per cent of traffic in Münster. In 2014, the amount of motorized vehicle traffic fell to 29 percent, making it lower than the bicycle traffic statistics. This is 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.stadt-muenster.de/verkehrsplanung/mit-dem-rad.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, escape routes and slip roads are not obstructed in the process. Cyclists can make use of three bicycle parks to ensure that their two-wheelers are stored safely during their absence.

• Radstation Münster (Münster Bicycle Station), Berliner Platz 27a (in front of the main railway station)
  Germany’s largest underground bicycle park, with 3,300 parking spaces. Bike repair and rental service available.
  ph. 02 51 / 4 84 01 70
  www.radstation.de
• Radstation Münster-Arkaden (Münster Arcades Bicycle Station), Königsstraße 7
  Also with bike repair and rental service.
  ph. 02 51 / 7 03 67 90.
• Radlager (Bicycle Storage), Stubengasse
  Parking only, automatic entrance.
  www.radstation.de/de/stubengasse/zweigstelle-stubengasse/5_72.html

Parking a bike correctly includes securely locking it. Unfortunately, more bicycles are stolen in Münster than in other city. Moreover, those who inconsiderately leave their bicycles in inappropriate locations on pavements, streets or pedestrian zones, may have to collect them from central collection points later on. Bicycles which disrupt traffic or obstruct footpaths are removed by the municipal authorities.

Purchasing bicycles

• Cycling is fun, comfortable and safe with the right bike. 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’ Office
  ph. 02 51 / 6 06 88 46
  fundbuero@stadt-muenster.de
  www.stadt-muenster.de/buergerservice/fundsachen.html

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.stadt-muenster.de/en/tourismus/bicycle-capital.html
• www.stadt-muenster.de/en/tourismus/bicycle-capital/bicycle-rental.html

Cycling code

• Cycle paths or lanes are a staple feature of all main roads in and around Münster. These also link 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: 20 euros
• Using a mobile phone while cycling: 25 euros
• Cycling "hands-free" or with headphones or ear plugs: 10 euros
• Cycling at night without lights: 20 euros
• Cycling through a red light: 125 euros and one month’s driving ban
• Cycling with a blood alcohol level of 1.6: disqualification from driving