Tips and tricks for riding a bike in Budapest

Cycling in Budapest is a pleasant, healthy and environment-friendly way to explore the city. Riding a bike will bring the vibes of the city closer, it almost feels like you actually “breath with the city”. However, while cycling in Budapest is a fast and cheap way to get around, sometimes it can be dangerous. Here are 5 tips and tricks that help you to get from A to B safe and sound.

Make sure that your bicycle is in a good condition

Check the pressure of your tires and test your breaks. Make sure that the saddle and the handlebar of your bike are in good position for your height. Test the lights; you will need them if you ride a bike at night. Make sure you have safety lenses on your bike, they are obligatory according to Hungarian law.

Wear a helmet

However, wearing a helmet in the city is not obligatory for bike riders, according to Hungarian law, it is highly recommended. Carrying a helmet around all day long is uncomfortable, but it can save your life.

Plan your route beforehand

Unfortunately, in Budapest there are not many bicycle routes, in most cases, bike riders must share the streets with cars and public transport vehicles. Therefore, you must be aware of your course. Otherwise, accidents may easily occur. You can find several maps for bikers online, which provide detailed information about your possible routes.

Stay alert

Always make sure that you use hand signals to indicate which direction you will turn. Through those little gestures, all participants of traffic will know of your intention. One of the most important things: do not listen to music while you ride a bike. Not even with one earplug. You are part of the traffic; you must be a 100% alert. Also, try to be out of door opening distance from parking cars, and pay attention to traffic lights and pedestrian crossings.

Park your bike safely

As Budapest is a big city, it is a great target of thieves. Buy a safe lock for your bike and use it in every single case. Do not leave your bike alone in the streets for even a moment. Always lock your bike to stable objects. Never forget to lock your tire and frame together. Otherwise, thieves will be able to have access to your bike.

Photo: MTI

Source: Janka Kovács