Where are bicyclists allowed to ride?

Bicyclists are allowed to ride on all public roads except interstates and most freeways because Virginia law recognizes that cyclists have the right to use public roadways as long as they adhere to traffic regulations. This includes riding in the same direction as traffic, signaling turns, and understanding the rules that apply to motor vehicles.

Designated bike paths, while a safe and preferred option for many cyclists, are not the only spaces available for them to ride, which is why the notion that they can only ride in those areas is incorrect. The requirement for permission to ride on private property also restricts a bicyclist's freedom to ride wherever they choose in public spaces. Riding on sidewalks, while permissible in certain areas, can be limited by local laws, especially in commercial zones or high-traffic areas, making it not universally applicable like the open roadways are. Thus, the correct answer encompasses the widest scope for where bicyclists can legally ride while maintaining their safety and compliance with traffic laws.