Bicycle shops around Heidelberg

[anichka 2]

After searching the forum and finding some of the bike laws in Germany, and reading the wiki on requirements in Munich, I figure my bike is not quite up to snuff for getting to work like I thought it would be. Is it safe to assume that all the requirements listed for Munich are the same for HD? I am still searching Google to see if I can find something on it, but not knowing German is getting in the way a bit.

 

Are there any recommended bike shops in the area that will help me figure out what I am missing?

 

So far, I am pretty sure I need more reflectors (I've got only one on each wheel, and none on the front or back of the bike) and a dynamo light (if that is indeed a requirement). I have battery-powered front and rear lights at the moment. I *think* that's it, but I am not certain.

[bohemka 4,338]

Any set of functioning lights will do. You're fine with the reflectors as well. HD is loaded with bike shops so you'll be able to get a tune-up or whatever else you need, but as far as being in compliance, you should be fine.

[anichka 2]

Cool. I am hoping to get into the habit early before laziness wins out (not to mention I just bought an older car that I don't really want to use much).

[bohemka 4,338]

I actually just started a new commute that has me riding 8km every day. Luckily it's flat, but I'm currently doing it on a kids bike, as I don't want to leave my bike overnight at the train station close to work. So I'm looking for a serviceable second bike right now as well, and will probably hit Mannheim for it, as the bike shops my way are few and their offerings are lacking.

[leky 173]

The Heidelberg PX sells various bike accessories, you can buy packs of reflectors, lights (including dymos) etc, you will also need a helmet if you plan on riding it on to the base. The law does require dymos but I have never had a problem with just battery operated lights.

[anichka 2]

Thanks for the tip, leky. Speaking of the PX, how is it there? The one near me in the UK sucks. One of my buddies in Stuttgart said the one in Ramstein is "the big one".

 

I noticed the commissary hours are MUCH better there than where I live now (damn thing shuts down at 1800 most evenings).

[bohemka 4,338]

 

The law does require dymos but I have never had a problem with just battery operated lights.

I never knew that. I don't think any of my friends do either. I'm the only one with a dynamo. Even the new fancy schmancy bike some girl at school just started showing up with only has the battery-powered lights. You learn something new every day.

[Bron 227]

 

I *think* that's it, but I am not certain.

Bell?

[anichka 2]

I have a bell.

[Elfenstar 1,676]

who puts a dynamo on a mountain bike? that is so uncool. (i have to admit, i put a bell on mine - i got tired of shouting at pedestrians and they know what it mean when the bell rings - they move to the right).

[Heathclyffe 287]

The following site is in German but shows a bike with the equipment required.

 

Minimum requirements are:

- Headlamp

- Rear lamp

- Dynamo (or battery lamp for a racing bike less than 11 kg)

- 15 (yes fifteen!) reflectors: One large red reflector and a separate rear lamp combined with reflector. A front-facing white reflector. A forward and a rearward yellow reflector on each pedal. Eight spoke reflectors (four per wheel), or reflective tyres, or reflective rings.

 

Important to remember is that all above parts should bear an official stamp of approval. Not everything on sale is approved. For example, flashing diode front and rear lights or certain high-powered headlamps are theoretically not permitted („theoretically“ as I don’t know of anybody being fined, but it’s possible). Your local bike shop should know what is required, but to be certain visit your local police station where they will give you a pamphlet showing up-to-date requirements.

 

IME, if your bike has good lights, several reflectors, a bell and good brakes you won’t have any trouble. I live in the town where the bicycle was invented and have never had any problems with the police - even though the lighting is not strictly legal.

 

BTW, if your bike is worth it, get it registered (special code is stamped into the frame and the number registered). Costs around €12 at a dealer or club, or nothing at all when the local police hold a so-called „Fahrradcodierung“ event.

 

HTH