Mandatory bicycle equipment in 2025: what the law says!

What equipment do I need to ride my bike legally?

French law strictly regulates bicycle safety equipment, and any oversight can result in a fine... or even risk your safety. So here's the list of mandatory equipment to check before every ride.

1. The helmet

• Mandatory for children under 12, whether drivers or passengers.
• Helmets must be CE-approved and securely fastened.
• For adults, it is strongly recommended but not compulsory (except for certain competitions or bike owners).

2. Reflective vest

• Mandatory at night or in poor visibility (rain, fog, etc.) outside built-up areas.
• Must be retro-reflective and certified (often fluorescent yellow).
• To be worn when pushing your bike on foot under the same conditions.

3. Lights and reflectors

To be visible day and night, your bike must include :

• Position lights :
  • White or yellow front light (non-dazzling)
  • Red tail light
• Reflectors :
  • Red rear
  • White or yellow front
  • Orange on the pedals
  • Reflectors on wheels or tires (often integrated)

Since 2024, flashing lights, stop lights and direction indicators have been permitted, as long as they don't dazzle other road users.

4. The bell

• Mandatory on all bicycles.
• Must be audible at least 50 meters away.
• Non-approved horns (klaxons, loud whistles) are forbidden.

5. The brakes

• The bike must be equipped with two effective brakes, one at the front and one at the rear.

Source: Sécurité Routière - Compulsory bicycle equipment

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What are the fines for non-compliant bicycles? The penalties you risk.

Ignoring certain mandatory bicycle equipment can cost more than a simple call to order. In the event of an inspection, the police can issue a fixed fine, depending on the type of offence. And in the event of an accident, the lack of proper equipment can work against you.

The law is strict to ensure everyone's safety. Here are the main offences and their fines:

• No helmet for a child under 12: up to €750.
• Failure to wear reflective vest (conditions required): up to €150.
• Absence of lights or reflectors: up to €38.
• No doorbell: up to €38.
• Bikes not equipped with functional brakes: up to €38.

These offences are generally punishable by 2nd class fines, but can be heavier in the event of an accident.

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Recommended equipment for cyclists: smart accessories for safer cycling!

Not all useful equipment is required by law... but some can clearly make all the difference in terms of safety and comfort. To go further than legal requirements, here's a selection ofrecommended accessories that make every journey safer, smoother, and sometimes even more enjoyable.

• Helmet- or glove-mounted turn signals: to warn you where you're going.
• Rearview mirror: to keep an eye on traffic behind you.
• Danger spreader: reflective side bar to discourage overtaking.
• Sturdy anti-theft device: a good padlock to prevent theft.
• Gloves and goggles: protection from falls and bad weather.

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Bicycle safety checklist 2025: what you need to remember before hitting the road

In 2025, cyclists must be as visible as they are vigilant. Whether you're an urban cyclist, a Sunday cyclist or a bike-taf enthusiast, compliance with mandatory equipment is not an option: it's a question of safety, responsibility... and avoiding fines!

So before you leave, always check:

✔️ Your brakes
✔️ Your lights
✔️ Your reflectors
✔️ Your bell
✔️ Your visibility equipment

And of course, wearing a helmet remains an essential reflex, even if it's not compulsory for everyone.

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