Music makes many things better - including the journey to work or the after-work ride. Whether it's a podcast, playlist or audio book: for many, a personal soundtrack has long been part of cycling. But how much sound is actually allowed in road traffic? And where does it become legally - and safety-wise - critical?
Generally permitted: music on the bike
The good news first: In Germany, it is not illegal to listen to music while cycling - not even with headphones. However, a key point in the German Road Traffic Regulations (StVO) is crucial: Your hearing must not be impaired. In concrete terms, this means that you must be able to perceive your surroundings at all times - i.e. hear bells, horns or sirens. If this perception is impaired by music that is too loud, you are in breach of Section 23 StVO. Whether in-ear, over-ear or open systems: The type of headphones is of secondary legal importance. The only decisive factor is the volume. There is a clear guideline for this:
- Quiet music: allowed
- Too loud (surroundings no longer audible): forbidden
For example, if you fail to hear the bell of another cyclist or do not react to an emergency vehicle, you risk a fine - and in the event of an accident you may even be partly to blame.
I always listen to music on my bike, whether I'm in the forest on the trail or on the cycle path commuting to work. The Soundrack helps with motivation during my cycling commute. I deliberately use open-ear headphones with bone-sound technology and switch the music down a notch as soon as I cycle into a busy residential area, for example. - Jan Timmermann, BIKE editor
You should always follow these rules
In addition to the volume, there are other specifications:
- Hands off the smartphone:
Operating a mobile phone while driving is prohibited and can cost at least 55 euros. - Hands-free operation allowed:
Phone calls via headset or voice control are permitted - as long as you are aware of your surroundings. - Both hands on the handlebars:
Control of the bike always takes priority. - Stop in case of distraction:
If you are actively selecting music or checking messages, you should stop.
Safety grey area: what is permitted is not always sensible
Even if many things are permitted, listening to music on a bike remains a safety factor. Studies and experts point out that even moderate volumes can affect your ability to react - especially in dense city traffic. Noise-cancelling headphones or completely shielded in-ears in particular can be dangerous because they greatly reduce ambient noise. If you want to be on the safe side, opt for open systems or only use earphones.
Let's summarise once again: Listening to music on a bike is permitted in Germany, but is subject to clear conditions. The most important rule is: you must be able to hear what is going on around you at all times. If you consciously dose your music, leave your smartphone in your pocket and concentrate on the traffic, you can enjoy your ride with a soundtrack - without any legal risks and, above all, without any unnecessary dangers. Because in the end, the same applies on two wheels: The best beat is useless if you can't hear the most important thing - your surroundings.
Conclusion
Music while cycling is permitted but, as always in Germany, the legislation imposes some rather vague restrictions. What volume is too high or too low also always depends on individual conditions. In an emergency, a decision needs to be made on a case-by-case basis. If you definitely want to play it safe, don't listen to music while cycling. - Jan Timmermann, BIKE editor
Jan Timmermann
Editor
