By bicycle / On foot / On horseback

In general, it is pleasant and safe to get around on foot or by bicycle in towns and villages in the Jura. In many places there are pavements for pedestrians, streets without cars and cycle paths.

For this reason, many people choose to make short trips by bicycle or on foot.

At pedestrian crossings, pedestrians always have priority over all vehicles. But they must always be alert to oncoming vehicles.

You can walk along beautiful hiking trails in the Canton of Jura. These paths are marked with yellow signs.

There are also trails specially designed for horseback riding.

You can find more information in the tourist offices in Saignelégier, St-Ursanne, Porrentruy and Delémont. Or on the Jura Tourisme (Jura Tourism) website.

You do not have to hold a licence or pass an exam to ride a non-electric bicycle in Switzerland.

In general, cyclists must follow the same rules of the road as motorists. Where there are cycle lanes, cyclists must use them.

The bicycle must be in good condition: it must have two working brakes, a bell, parts that shine at night (reflectors) at the front and rear and on the pedals, and a light at the front and rear.

Wearing a helmet is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended.

Pro Vélo Jura offers courses to learn how to ride a bicycle.

Private third-party liability insurance covers damage to persons and property if you have an accident with your bicycle.

To ride a slow electric bicycle (up to 25 km/h, without a number plate) you must be at least 14 years old. And up to the age of 16, you need to have a category M driving licence. After that, it is no longer mandatory.

It is advisable to wear a helmet, but it is not mandatory.

To ride a fast electric bicycle (up to 45 km/h, with a yellow number plate) or a heavy electric bicycle (cargo bicycle up to 450 kg and 25 km/h, with a yellow number plate), you also need an M licence (or higher). This is also allowed from the age of 14.

You need to have a speedometer on your bicycle. And helmets must be worn.

For all types of electric bicycles, the headlights should always remain on, even during the day.

Riders of electric scooters must follow the same rules as cyclists. It is therefore forbidden to ride on pavements.

It is advisable to wear a helmet, but it is not mandatory.

It is forbidden to carry a passenger.

Please note: many scooters sold do not meet Swiss standards. They may not be used on public roads. You can have your scooter checked by the Office cantonal des véhicules (Cantonal Vehicle Office) (CVO).

Used and inexpensive bicycles can be found in bicycle exchanges (held once or twice a year) or in solidarity shops.

To transport a bicycle by train or bus, you need to buy a special ticket.

It is not always possible to take a bicycle with you. You must check first. On some trains, you have to reserve a place for your bicycle.

https://www.sbb.ch/fr/informations-voyages/besoins-individuels/voyager-avec-velo/transport-velo-train.html

Transporting bicycles on the train (FR)