Can cyclists be fined for speeding on UK roads? All to know
However, there are some rules that you might not be aware of.
CyclingMikey BANNED from reporting drivers to the police? pic.twitter.com/9zq8fwmwW5 — CyclingMikey the Unspeakable (@MikeyCycling) July 18, 2025
What does the law say about speeding cyclists?
According to Slater Gordon Lawyers, cyclists share no legal obligation to adhere to the same speed limits as motorists.
Speed limits listed in the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 and Rule 124 of the Highway Code apply to motor vehicles, not bicycles.
'It shall not be lawful for a person to drive a motor vehicle on a restricted road at a speed exceeding 30 miles per hour.
'A person who drives a motor vehicle on a road at a speed exceeding a limit imposed by or under any enactment to which this section applies shall be guilty of an offence.'
Despite this, some local bylaws impose a cycling speed limit.
Is there a speed limit on a cycle path?
According to CouncilClaims, cyclists are not obligated by law to use the cycle lane and cycle track. It is merely seen as a safer option, and you should consider using either the cycle lanes next to public roads or cycle tracks that are separate from the carriageways. These facilities ensure safer passage for cyclists, but ultimately the choice is yours.
Although there are no set speed limits for cycle paths, some offroad cycle paths indicate a limit of 15mph. Some speed limits also suggest that any speed above 18mph on a bicycle should instead be done on the road. This is not a law but more of a suggestion.
Recommended reading:
Is there a cyclist speeding limit?
Rule 123 of the Highway Code includes a table that outlines the speed limits for various types of vehicles on different categories of roads.
The table does not include bicycles. So no, cyclists in the UK are not legally required to adhere to the same speed limits as motorists.
Cyclists who breach the speed limit may not be prosecuted for a speeding offence, but they can, however, be prosecuted for 'cycling furiously' or 'wanton and furious cycling.'
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