Traffic Management

Buses and Bikes are at opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of size, mass and manoeuvrability but frequently operate in the same road space, especially adjacent to the kerb and at intersections. Both buses and bicycles are effective alternatives to the private car for travel in our towns and cities and are being promoted by governments on this basis, but they can come into conflict as well as working together. This report reviews the interaction between buses and bicycles within the road network and suggests ways in which any adverse impacts on cyclists or bus operators and passengers can be minimised. Issues and ways of addressing them were identified in consultation with both bus and bicycle stakeholders, to ensure that the outcomes reflected a balanced view of bus-bike interaction. Specific Issues have been addressed in Information Notes. These Information Notes do not replace existing guidelines (for example, the Austroads Guides to Traffic Engineering Practice) but are intended to complement them, to draw attention to issues that may need to be addressed in specific situations and to suggest ways in which they can be resolved or, at least, adverse impacts for cyclists and bus operators and passengers can be minimised. Users should also refer to local State or Territory Guidelines for bicycle facilities. The information in these Information Notes should be considered in the current review and rewrite of the Austroads Guide to Traffic Engineering Practice.