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<\/a><\/p>\nMost traffic crossings have special lights designated for bicycles. They look like a small set of traffic lights that have a bicycle symbol and they hang on the right. Always follow those lights. Do not run red lights. I know, the Dutch people around you will be doing it, but it’s really dangerous and you can in theory get a fine for it if the police see you do it.\u00a0 If a fine isn’t enough to deter you, bear in mind that your body is no match for a car or tram.<\/p>\n
Bicycles have the right of way with cars, pedestrians have the right of way with everything. But I don’t recommend testing your right of way capabilities with taxis. Taxi drivers here are crazy. You know who they are by the blue license plate and if you see one of these speeding along the road, don’t test your luck with them. They don’t always stop, or slow down, and your right of way is not worth defending with your body.<\/p>\n
If you’re not sure what to do at an intersection, just walk it. Seriously. There is this intersection I have to traverse frequently and the traffic is a mess, with 6 trams and buses, and crosswalks, and tons of cyclists, and taxis.\u00a0 There is absolutely no shame in getting off the bicycle and walking, and at this intersection I see Dutch people do it too. Pedestrians have the ultimate right of way at a zebra crossing, and rather than trying to do something tricky and complicated, sometimes it really is best just to walk.<\/p>\n
Avoid tram tracks at all costs.\u00a0 Always cross a tram track so that your tires don’t fall into the tram rails.\u00a0 This is one of the worst things that could happen to you on a bicycle because your bicycle will be stuck and you will get hurt.\u00a0 Just remember to cross them at an angle, and you’ll be fine.<\/p>\n
The standard Dutch bicycle has no gears and has back pedaling coaster brakes instead of handbrakes on the handlebars. This can be disconcerting at first, though I assure you there is a good reason. With my hands free from being designated to braking, I can carry a ton of stuff while cycling and still stop in time to avoid getting hit by a tram. Most of the rental companies have both styles for rent, so if you have a preference you can find a bicycle you are comfortable with.\u00a0 Here are some pretty standard Dutch bicycles hanging out in front of the Universiteit van Amsterdam:<\/p>\n
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