As part of the measures taken by the Austrian federal government to contain the corona COVID-19 virus, "exit restrictions" have been ordered throughout Austria, and a curfew has been in force in the province of Tyrol since yesterday. As a result, the Austrian Cycling Federation ÖRV has been increasingly confronted with questions from unsettled cyclists in recent days. Vice-Chancellor and Sports Minister Werner Kogler has now made a clear statement on how racing cyclists and mountain bikers in Austria can practise their sport in times of the coronavirus crisis:
"The exercise mentioned in the regulation is intended to maintain physical and mental well-being and to fulfil people's natural need for exercise," says Kogler.
Cyclists should refrain from doing these things
- Group rides (with people who do not live in the same residential unit), because the necessary distance is not guaranteed when riding in the slipstream and side by side.
- Single journeys lasting several hours, because the longer the journey, the greater the likelihood of a fall and injury, and avoidable rescue missions put a strain on the already strained healthcare system or even jeopardise human lives. From the For the same reason, mountain bike tours away from tarmac roads, especially in the mountains, should be avoided.
- Single trips lasting several hours at a higher intensity, as these can have a negative effect on the body's defences.
- The use of public transport to get to "suitable" cycle routes.
Although moderate road cycling remains permitted in principle, Kogler appeals to the common sense of Austrians: "Basically, not everything that is not explicitly prohibited is advisable, desirable and responsible in the current situation."
Cycling prohibited in the province of Tyrol
In the federal state Tyrol, on the other hand, has a curfewThe entire population is in quarantine. This means that you are only allowed to leave your own home for a short walk, to go shopping or for professional reasons. Hikes and ski tours are explicitly prohibited. But what about cycling? This is only permitted if it serves basic needs. This means, for example, if you cycle to the nearest grocery shop to do your shopping. Sporty mountain biking and road cycling are prohibited. Anyone who does not comply with this can expect a fine of up to 3600 euros.
