Since 2007, police officers on bicycles have been patrolling the streets of Graz, ensuring more safety on two wheels. Almost like the city has its own superhero bike club – just without capes, but with bike helmets and police caps.
Last year, the Graz bike police issued an incredible nearly 2,700 tickets! Yes, you read that right: 2,700. This clearly shows that the officers on saddles aren’t just leisurely cycling through the streets to enjoy the view—they also take strong action when needed. From illegal parking to forbidden phone calls while holding the handlebars—these officers catch some truly reckless traffic offenders.
But here’s the bad news: The Graz bike police team is apparently being cut in half. At first, we could hardly believe it either. So why is this suddenly happening? Mr. Kohlbacher from the Styrian State Police Command explains it like this:
“It’s no secret that everyone has to save money. But when it comes to the bike police, you can’t really say that in a general sense.”
In other words: It’s not primarily about financial cuts, but rather personnel issues behind this. Maybe a shortage of new recruits, maybe restructuring—no one really knows for sure.
What’s interesting is that the bike police in Styria operate exclusively in Graz. In other Styrian cities, they apparently still mostly rely on patrol cars rather than bikes. A pity actually, considering Graz already has such a lively cycling community! It’s almost like knocking over the only Styrian pumpkin – okay, maybe a bit exaggerated, BUT you get what we mean.
So what does this mean for us? Fewer cycling officers keeping a watchful eye on the streets. Perhaps one more reason to stay alert ourselves, ride safely, and of course, watch out for other road users.
Here at BIKEGRAZ, we believe the bike police are an important part of Graz’s bike traffic and a great way to make road traffic more bike-friendly and safer. Hopefully, more staff will be found for this job in the future—otherwise, we’re not only losing part of our safety but also a piece of that “Styrian bike feeling.”
What do you think?
How do you see the halving of the bike police in Graz? Less order or more freedom on the streets? Looking forward to some exciting discussions!
Post your opinions, photos of Graz bike paths, or your encounters with the bike police using the hashtag #BikeGrazRadelt on Instagram or Bluesky. Together, let’s keep cycling safe in Graz!
