Add organization

    Do cyclists need lights in Finland?

    The 2020 change and how many riders follow it.

    Answered at: Checked at:

    Short answer

    Yle reported that the new Road Traffic Act that took effect at the start of June 2020 made a red rear light compulsory for people cycling in the dark. Before, a reflector was enough at the back. Liikenneturva's follow-up the previous autumn found that 57 percent of cyclists in dusk or dark used a front light, but only one in five had a rear light. Verkkouutiset later reported that rear light use has become more common since the change.

    Transport, roads, car rental

    Why

    1. Yle reported the rear light duty from June 2020.
    2. Yle cites Liikenneturva's figures of 57 percent front lights and one in five rear lights.
    3. Verkkouutiset says rear light use has grown since the law change.

    Details

    The dark season in Finland is long, so lights matter from autumn to spring, not only at night.

    Tip

    Rental and city bikes usually have built-in lights. Check that they work before you ride off.

    What may differ

    A helmet is recommended for cyclists, but there is no fine for not wearing one.

    Common misconception

    A rear reflector is enough on a bike.

    What actually happens

    Since 2020 a red rear light is required in the dark.

    People also ask

    • Do pedestrians have to wear a reflector?
    • Do you need a helmet on an e-scooter?
    • Where can you rent city bikes in Helsinki?

    Sources

    This answer is for reference only. Traffic rules and fees change, so check Traficom, Liikenneturva or the police before you drive.

    Transport, roads, car rental

    • Do foreign cars need a country sticker in Finland?

      The Automobile and Touring Club of Finland says a nationality sign is required on foreign cars in Finland, unless the vehicle is registered in a country that is party to the Geneva or Vienna Road Traffic Convention and carries EU number plates with the country code.

      Checked at:

    • What colour are motorway and main road signs in Finland?

      The Automobile and Touring Club of Finland (Autoliitto) says main roads in Finland have blue direction signs with white text, while motorways have green signs with white text.

      Checked at:

    • Does E10 petrol increase fuel consumption?

      VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland tested six used E10-compatible cars from model years 1999–2010 in laboratory conditions in 2011.

      Checked at:

    • Which petrol should you use in Finland, 95E10 or 98E5?

      Finnish pumps sell two main petrol grades: 95E10, with an octane rating of at least 95 and up to 10% ethanol, and 98E5, with at least 98 octane and up to 5% ethanol.

      Checked at:
    Help