Prohibition for motorcycles
Regulatory prohibition Prohibition for motorcycles, including motorcycles with sidecars, mopeds and motor-assisted bicycles
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When you see the Zeichen
You may not continue riding a motorcycle, small motorcycle or moped beyond this sign. Use another route or get off and push the vehicle, unless other signs prohibit this.
Rules
- The prohibition applies to motorcycles, including those with sidecars, as well as small motorcycles and mopeds.
- S-pedelecs, which are legally classified as small motorcycles, may not be ridden here either.
- Cars and other multi-track motor vehicles are not prohibited by Zeichen 255 alone.
- Zusatzzeichen may limit the area of application or exempt certain types of traffic from the prohibition.
- The prohibition begins at the location of the sign in the direction of travel indicated by the sign.
Tips
- Pay attention to the motorcycle symbol and do not confuse it with Zeichen 260, which also prohibits cars.
- Always check for any Zusatzzeichen, such as time restrictions or exemptions for residents and visitors.
- If you are riding an S-pedelec, do not go by the bicycle's appearance; its legal classification as a small motorcycle is what matters.
- You may generally continue riding a standard pedelec with pedal assistance up to 25 km/h because it is legally classified as a bicycle.
Common misunderstandings
- The sign is mistaken for a prohibition on all motor vehicles; however, cars are not covered by Zeichen 255.
- Small motorcycles and mopeds are mistakenly thought to be permitted because of the motorcycle symbol.
- S-pedelecs are confused with standard pedelecs, even though they are classified as small motorcycles and therefore fall under the prohibition.
Exam tip
In exam questions, the type of vehicle you are driving is often decisive: Zeichen 255 does not prohibit a car or a standard pedelec, but it does prohibit a moped or S-pedelec.
Did you know
Although the pictogram shows a motorcycle, Zeichen 255 expressly also covers mopeds, small motorcycles and motorcycles with sidecars.
Frequently asked questions
May I drive past Zeichen 255 in a car?
Yes. Zeichen 255 alone only prohibits traffic involving motorcycles, small motorcycles and mopeds. However, other traffic signs or Zusatzzeichen may impose additional restrictions on passing through.
May I push my motorcycle through the restricted area?
Yes, generally you may push the motorcycle because you are participating in traffic as a pedestrian. However, observe any additional prohibitions and do not endanger or obstruct anyone.
Does the prohibition also apply to a motorcycle with a sidecar?
Yes. Motorcycles with sidecars are expressly covered by the prohibition.
Are pedelecs and S-pedelecs prohibited equally?
No. A standard pedelec with pedal assistance up to 25 km/h is considered a bicycle and is not covered by Zeichen 255; an S-pedelec is generally considered a small motorcycle and may not continue.
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