Bicycle event, Dresden Bike Night, commences at the local post office
On Friday evening, the 4th edition of the Dresden Night Ride will take place, showcasing a 20 km bike demonstration in a relaxed atmosphere. Hundreds of cyclists, both big and small, are expected to participate in this event, organised by the ADFC Dresden.
The Night Ride route will lead cyclists through the city, passing by notable locations such as the Postplatz. Two tunnels, usually only accessible to car traffic, will be temporarily closed for the Night Ride: the tunnel at Wiener Platz and the tunnel at Waldschlösschen.
The ADFC chief, Edwin Seifert, has stated that the Night Ride demonstrates the need for cyclists to pass traffic jams on safe and wide paths, suggesting that this should be possible not just during the Night Ride, but in general.
The Night Ride is scheduled to start at 6:30 PM on the Altmarkt and is estimated to last approximately three hours. The cyclists will embark on the route and are expected to return to the Postplatz around 8:50 PM, where a closing rally will mark the end of the event.
Regular traffic rules for bicycles in Dresden generally follow German road traffic laws. Cyclists must use bike lanes where available, obey traffic signals, use front white and rear red lights when riding at night, and give priority to pedestrians at crossings. Helmets are recommended but not mandatory. E-bikes follow the same rules but must have appropriate lighting and may have speed restrictions based on their classification.
During special events like the Dresden Night Ride, the traffic rules may be modified or supplemented by event-specific regulations. Participants are typically required to have proper lighting and may need to adhere to event-specific safety instructions, such as riding in a controlled, slower speed, and staying within the defined course. The atmosphere can be more social and festive, but safety regulations regarding lights, helmets, and signaling remain enforced.
The Dresden Night Ride serves as a reminder that safe and wide paths for cyclists are essential not just during special events, but in everyday traffic as well. The event aims to promote a more bike-friendly city and encourage more people to choose cycling as a means of transport.
Sports enthusiasts attending the Dresden Night Ride can expect a thrilling 20 km bike demo, including passing notable sports venues like Postplatz. As the event progresses, cyclists will encounter temporary closures of mainly-car-traffic tunnels Wiener Platz and Waldschlösschen tunnels.
