The UNECE (United Nations Economic Commission for Europe) has published a document with a set of harmonised definitions for cycling infrastructure, developed by the Expert Group on Cycling Infrastructure Module (2022–2024), of which the Institute for Mobility and Transport was a member.

Based on recent developments in several UNECE member countries, the group identified significant changes in cycling practices, types of infrastructure, signage and regulatory frameworks. In response, a set of standardised definitions was developed for international application. The document covers linear and non-linear infrastructure.

In the case of linear infrastructure, it includes definitions for:

• cycle tracks;
• greenways;
• cycle lanes;
• sharrows;
• mixed traffic lanes;
• cycle streets;
• streets with contraflow cycling;
• bus + bicycle lanes;
• cycle route networks.

For non-linear infrastructure, definitions are included for:

• cycle crossings;
• grade-separated crossings;
• advanced stop lines;
• two-stage turning solutions;
• bicycle parking;
• traffic light exemptions for cyclists.

Each definition is accompanied by an explanatory note, which includes:

• the source of the definition;
• examples of practical application;
• relevant signage, based on the 1968 Convention on Road Signs and Signals or national regulations.

To enhance clarity and facilitate interpretation, the document also includes illustrative images of signage and different types of infrastructure.

This publication is an important contribution to promoting greater technical and terminological consistency in the planning, implementation and evaluation of cycling mobility solutions in different national contexts.