Spain and Austria implement new cycling and e-moped regulations

Spain is implementing new traffic regulations to enhance cyclist safety. Starting in October, all cyclists traveling outside of urban areas must wear helmets or face a 200 euro fine. The rules also mandate that motorists overtaking cyclists outside of towns must reduce their speed by at least 20 km/h below the posted limit and maintain a side distance of at least 1.5 meters. Within cities, drivers must maintain a five-meter distance when following a bicycle on the same lane.

In Austria, new legal classifications for e-mopeds are forcing a shift in the delivery sector. E-mopeds are now categorized as two-wheeled light motorcycles, requiring registration, liability insurance, a license plate, and an AM-class driver's license. Because these vehicles are no longer permitted on bike paths, delivery services such as foodora are transitioning their fleets to e-bikes and bicycles. The ÖAMTC has noted that for many existing models, meeting these new requirements may be practically impossible, effectively creating a ban on certain older e-moped models.