We are asked about the law on carrying bicycles on vehicles and of course you are allowed to transport bicycles in Portugal, within certain guidelines – which are:
On the luggage rack (that does not rest on the towbar)
Up to 4 bicycles can be transported, depending on the support models.
Bicycles cannot exceed the width of the side mirrors (or if they do, a specific authorisation is required, renewed annually).
Lights, reflectors and license plates must not be obstructed. The vehicle's number plate and lights must be clearly visible. If this is not the case, it is a requirement to add a signal platform.
The combined length of cycles cannot exceed 45 centimetres beyond the vehicle.
On the roof
Although the roof is the form of transporting bicycles with the fewest associated rules, it also has:
Length limit: 0.55 meters towards the front and 0.45 meters towards the rear of the extreme points of the vehicle.
Width limit: that of the car.
Height limit: cannot exceed 4 meters.
The bicycle carrier must be approved by the EU.
On tow ball holder
Also known as a technical load extension unit, this type of carrier, as it does not contain wheels, is not considered a trailer, although it may have similarities. However, this form of bicycle transport involves a few rules:
- The towbar must be registered on the Single Vehicle Document, be approved with an indication of the bearable suspended load, be removable and allow the operation of the reversing lights on the carrier.
- Bicycles may not exceed the width of the car (or if they do, a specific authorisation is required, renewed annually) and may not be more than 45 centimetres in length beyond the approved technical load extension unit (with built-in lights and license plate).
- In the car insurance policy it is necessary to include a trailer under 400 kg.
In Portugal bicycle carriers projecting to the rear, with or without bicycles, must always have a reflective aluminium or plastic warning sign type P2, that is white with 3 red diagonal stripes (you can get them in drogarias and DIY stores).
A vehicle combination, such as a car or camper with caravan or trailer, that is longer than 12m (including bicycle rack) must have ECE 70 marking plates attached. These are reflective yellow plates with a red border, but this does not apply to you if you only have a normal car.
Disclaimer
afpop considers in good faith that all the information provided is true and accurate after having endeavoured to so confirm to the best of its ability. However, afpop is not qualified to render any technical advice, recommendation or information, nor is it under any legal duty to do so. Therefore, afpop declines any responsibility for possible damages arising directly or indirectly to members or non-members from alleged incorrect or misleading advice, recommendation or information and strongly advises all members to seek always the services of qualified practitioners and/or professionals for any technical matters, such practitioners and/or professionals being exclusively responsible for possible damages arising from their activity, including their technical opinions that may be inserted in our publications.