New rules for bike racks in South Tyrol from 2025 – how to get it right next year
Clearly regulated: travel safely through South Tyrol with a bike rack
South Tyrol is made for cycling – as long as your bike arrives safely. If you're heading south in 2025 with a rear-mounted bike rack, take note: from 21 January 2025, new rules for vehicles with bike racks apply in Italy – and therefore also in South Tyrol.
What exactly is new?
1. Number plate: visible or duplicated
Your car's number plate must remain clearly visible – even with a mounted bike rack. If the original plate is blocked, a second legal number plate must be mounted on the rack.
2. Width limit: maximum 2.55 metres
The total width of your vehicle including loaded bikes must not exceed 2.55 metres. This includes handlebars and pedals. So: best to measure carefully before departure.
3. Clearly marked: warning sign
Bikes mounted at the rear count as protruding cargo. That’s why a reflective red-and-white warning sign measuring 50×50 cm is mandatory. It must be clearly visible at the outermost end of the load.
Why these rules?
The new regulations are part of an EU-wide harmonisation of road safety standards. The aim is to reduce accidents caused by poorly secured bike transport – and ensure a smooth journey for everyone.
Our tip: quick check before you go
Checklist for your trip to South Tyrol:
- Is the number plate clearly visible or duplicated on the rack?
- Is your vehicle, including bikes, under 2.55 m wide?
- Have you mounted the warning sign at the outermost point of the load?
- Is the sign reflective and 50×50 cm in size?
