Can soldiers use bicycles while in uniform?

2019-01-13T18:36:02-05:00

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 13 at 2019 7:11 PM

2019-01-13T19:11:08-05:00

Check with local post policy.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Jan 13 at 2019 11:09 PM

2019-01-13T23:09:18-05:00

SPC Private RallyPoint Member Yes unless prohibited by local policy. Check for what PPE and uniform modifications go with it. You will likely be required to put lights on the bicycle for limited visibility operations.

PS your tags really don't hit An audience to answer questions. Army regulation 385-10 governs safety.

If you are going to US Army EUROPE, be advised that your bicycle must meet German standards, which USAREUR has adopted. Further be advised that Baumholder gets like 270 days of rain and about 90 days of snow. At the same time, there is little parking at Baumholder so you end up circling....frustrating if you've been sent there to do something but don't live there. You can tuck a bicycle into your hold bags and send it ahead. I did that PCSing to Heidelberg. Talk to your sponsor. Have you had a levy brief yet?

I think you had another topic on here about whether you need a car or not....you referenced the hassle of shipping one. Options:

1. buy a German beater from the Lemon lot for a few hundred bucks and sell on the eve of your departure.
2. Ship your US spec car over, understand that it can't have anything wrong or be leaking otherwise they won't ship it. It has to be immaculate inside and out including under the hood to ship it home. uSDA standards. You are at the mercy of the German economy to get repairs.
3. Buy a new BMW, Mini, Volvo, etc US Spec and have them ship it back. Never saw anyone do it with a VW.
4. Ride your bike. Use trains, buses, strassebahn, etc. Germans have tons of bike trails, but your bike in a regular roadway must operate like a car. Everyone gets hit at least once though....

I did all four, no regrets. Buying a beater should be approached with caution. Include your NCO regardless of the option. The German DMV, aka the TUV, has an inspection station. Ball busting and merciless regardless of your choice. Your hooptie, whip, and or ride has to pass. No exceptions. Tschuss.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 14 at 2019 7:28 AM

2019-01-14T07:28:19-05:00

Yes I know many who use them to get back and forth on post also for exercise instead of always driving a car. Just make sure you are wearing the appropriate PPE and abide by the rules that is mandated by Post policy or the MP's can give you a ticket.