Riding side by side: Rules for pairs and groups

Riding two abreast in Germany is not prohibited as a general rule. Section 2 of the German Road Traffic Regulations permits it as long as it does not obstruct other traffic. Special rules apply to cycle streets and cohesive groups. Distinguishing between an ordinary pair riding together and a group of at least 16 cyclists avoids both unnecessary single-file riding and risky blockages.

The short answer

On an ordinary road, bicycles may ride side by side as long as this does not obstruct other traffic. If it causes an obstruction, they must ride single file. Riding side by side is expressly permitted on a cycle street. In addition, more than 15 cyclists may form a cohesive group; in that case, they may ride two abreast on the road. The group must remain clearly recognizable to others as a connected unit.

Pairs and groups are not the same thing

When does riding two abreast obstruct traffic?

Section 2(4) of the German Road Traffic Regulations does not specify a fixed road width or waiting time. The specific situation is decisive. If following traffic cannot pass safely and in compliance with the rules because cyclists are riding two abreast, although this would be possible if they were riding single file, moving into single file is the obvious course of action. The same applies on a narrow road, at an obscured bend, or when there is oncoming traffic if riding in pairs creates an additional conflict.

Not every brief wait behind cyclists automatically constitutes unlawful obstruction. When overtaking, a motor vehicle must maintain a lateral distance of at least 1.5 metres in built-up areas and at least 2 metres outside built-up areas. If there is not enough space for safe overtaking even when a cyclist is riding alone, riding two abreast does not suddenly create a legal overtaking opportunity. The precise assessment nevertheless depends on the individual case.

In addition, Section 5(6) requires the driver of a slower vehicle to enable overtaking: If several vehicles following immediately behind can overtake only in this way, the driver must reduce speed at a suitable place and wait if necessary. Where it is safe and suitable, the shoulder may also be used for this purpose. The provision specifies neither a fixed number of vehicles that must be waiting nor a specific waiting time. Nor does it justify swerving into the door zone, toward the curb, or into a dangerous gap.

The special rule on bicycle streets

Annex 2 to the StVO expressly provides for sign 244.1 that riding bicycles side by side is permitted. Motor vehicle traffic that is permitted to use the road may neither endanger nor obstruct bicycle traffic and must reduce its speed further if necessary. This distinguishes a bicycle street from an ordinary road, where the obstruction limit under Section 2 restricts riding in pairs.

Even so, the special rule is not a license to ride inattentively. Oncoming traffic, pedestrians, side roads, and parked vehicles require a controllable line. A broad formation with three or four bicycles side by side is not covered by the permission to ride two abreast.

Closed group: at least 16 cyclists

Section 27 of the German Road Traffic Regulations (StVO) states: More than 15 cyclists may form a closed group. This means at least 16 people. “May form” does not mean that every random group at a traffic light automatically constitutes a group. The line must be clearly recognizable to other road users as a cohesive unit.

The traffic rules and instructions apply correspondingly to the group as a single unit. The bicycles may ride two abreast on the carriageway. Elsewhere, the group must not be split up; if its length requires it, reasonable gaps must be left for other traffic. A responsible leader ensures that the group rules are observed.

ADFC and ADAC explain the practical principle as follows: When the clearly recognizable group enters an intersection, it is treated as a single road user. This is not a general right to enter on a red light or without having fulfilled a duty to yield. The front of the group may enter only lawfully—for example, on a green light or after a duty to yield has been fulfilled and the intersection is clear. Anyone organizing a large ride should clarify the route, leadership, communication, and local conditions in advance rather than improvising the special rule.

If the group visibly breaks apart, its legal recognizability becomes questionable. People at the back should therefore not try to close a resulting gap at a risky speed. A prearranged meeting point is safer. Emergency vehicles, police instructions, and immediate dangers also take priority over the desire to keep the formation together.

This keeps a group recognizable and safe

1. Count beforehand: A closed group of cyclists under Section 27 can be considered only once there are at least 16 cyclists.
2. Designate a leader: One responsible person determines the route, stops, and clear signals.
3. Maintain the formation: Stay in an even two-abreast formation or ride single file, without large, unclear gaps.
4. Maintain distances: Leave enough room to react ahead and to the side; do not let wheels overlap.
5. Pass signals along: Calmly announce turns, braking, and obstacles without losing control of your bicycle.
6. Do not force your way through an intersection: The front of the group checks the traffic light, right of way, and clear space before entering the intersection.

What drivers should bear in mind

Riding in pairs must not be “corrected” by passing closely. The statutory lateral distances still apply. For a recognizable closed group, Section 27 prohibits interrupting it in unsuitable places. Anyone wishing to overtake needs sufficient visibility, space, and distance for the entire maneuver. If these are unavailable, remain behind at a safe distance. Honking or tailgating does not create a safe passing space.

Frequently asked questions

May two bicycles always ride side by side?

On ordinary roads, only as long as other traffic is not obstructed. On bicycle streets, riding two abreast is expressly permitted; a special rule also applies to recognizable closed groups.

Are 15 cyclists already considered a closed group?

No. Section 27 refers to “more than 15,” meaning at least 16 cyclists. In addition, the group must be clearly recognizable as such from the outside.

Must a small group immediately switch to riding single file when a car approaches?

Not solely because a car appears. If riding two abreast is specifically obstructing traffic and riding single file would allow safe, legal passage, the group must ride single file.

May a car drive between the bicycles in a group?

In other situations, a closed group must not be interrupted. Any planned, reasonable gaps in very long groups are a separate matter.

As of September 5, 2026. This is general information about Germany’s Road Traffic Regulations (StVO), not legal advice or organizational approval for a specific event.