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Can I cycle through tunnels in Norway?

Banned tunnels, lights and reflectors, and how to plan the route.

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Short answer

Yes, you can cycle through most road tunnels in Norway, but a few are closed to cyclists, and there you must find another route. Lights at the front and rear are mandatory, and Statens vegvesen also recommends a reflective vest. Vegkart (vegkart.no) shows which tunnels have a cycling ban. Check the route before you set off.

Cycling in Norway: rules, routes and etiquette a blue tram at a stop with a ticket app on a phone and a simple parking sign

Why

  1. Statens vegvesen says cycling is forbidden in some tunnels, and that cyclists must then use an alternative route.
  2. In 2021 the road supervisory authority Vegtilsynet found that signs banning cycling were missing at 27 of 78 tunnels, and Statens vegvesen says those tunnels are now clearly signed.
  3. Lights at the front and rear of the bike are mandatory, and so are reflectors on the back of the bike and on the pedals.

Details

Even where cycling is allowed, Statens vegvesen prefers a route outside the tunnel if there is one, because it can be dark and cold inside, with poor air. Some tunnels have a warning system with a light that flashes when a cyclist is inside, and in some places reflective vests can be borrowed at the tunnel.

Tip

If a tunnel on your route is closed to bikes, a train can be an alternative, but on the Bergen Line and the Flåm Railway you must reserve a bike space in advance.

What may differ

Vegtilsynet's 2021 review covered only national road tunnels, not county road tunnels, so look for the no-cycling sign at every tunnel entrance.

People also ask

  • Are bikes allowed in Norwegian tunnels?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Rules can change, so check Statens vegvesen before you ride.

Cycling in Norway: rules, routes and etiquette
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