Will bicycles soon have turn signals?

Turn signals on bicycles would be a significant safety improvement. Currently, the StVZO explicitly permits only S-Pedelecs, multi-track bicycles, bicycle trailers, or bicycles whose construction obscures the giving of a hand signal to use such a system, with tricyclic S-Pedelecs being mandated to have them. The advantages are obvious: In slippery road conditions, poor surface quality, or when heavily loaded, you can keep both hands on the handlebars while turning.

Manufacturers are also showing interest in the topic: After sets from Velorian and HP Velotechnik have been offered for several years, Busch + Müller, a major player in the lighting industry, is now joining in. Rainer Müller, managing director of Busch + Müller, told Westdeutscher Rundfunk television that he is optimistic about approval for other e-bikes. His remark comes in the context of the ongoing revision of the StVZO.

At Busch + Müller, the system is called Turntec and unfortunately still costs a steep 349 euros. Essentially, it resembles the previously mentioned turn signal systems: It comprises two front indicators on the handlebars and two rear ones for mounting on the luggage rack.

To indicate the intended change of direction, an ergonomic rocker switch is used, positioned on the left handlebar. With this, you can also turn the lights on and off and sound a horn.