‘Speeding’ as a cyclist in France: what are the penalties?
What the law says when cyclists break the rules
Cyclists in France are subject to fines when exceeding speed limits
Gautier Normand/Shutterstock.
Cyclists, just like motorists and motorcyclists, can be fined for exceeding speed limits, travelling in the wrong direction, failing to comply with safety regulations, and cycling under the influence.
It is common to see cyclists speeding, going through red lights, or riding the wrong way down a street. However, cyclists must follow the same rules as motorists and can be fined if they fail to do so.
What is more, it is even more dangerous for cyclists to break these rules, as according to Sécurité Routière, the risk of injury is eight times higher on a bicycle than in a car and 20 times higher than on foot.
Additionally, cyclist fatalities and serious injuries increased in 2025, with cyclists among the categories most affected by rising road deaths and injuries.
For a cyclist speeding the fine is set at €35. According to Article R413-16, “any driver of a vehicle other than a motor vehicle who contravenes the provisions of this code relating to the maximum authorised speed is liable to the fine prescribed for second-class offences.”
However, the Highway Code also states that in cases of inappropriate speed, meaning the cyclist may be respecting the speed limit but is deliberately ignoring a risk, such as weaving through pedestrians, the fine rises to €135.
Cyclists can also face fines for other traffic offences. Running a red light or using a mobile phone while riding can result in a €135 fine. Cycling with a blood alcohol concentration between 0.5g/L and 0.8g/L can also lead to a €135 penalty, while levels above 0.8g/L are considered a more serious offence and can result in heavier penalties.
While fines do exist, cyclists do not have points deducted from their driving licence for speeding offences, should they hold one. However, in the event of a serious offence, such as cycling under the influence of alcohol and putting other people’s lives at risk, a judge could suspend their driving licence.
Note that in shared spaces cyclists must not travel faster than 20km/h, while in pedestrian areas they must ride at walking pace.
