New regulation for traffic calming
With the closure in the direction of Bayrischzell, the Rosenheim and Miesbach offizeill district authorities reacted to an increasing number of complaints and dangerous situations on the route. In particular, ambitious motorcyclists – sometimes referred to as the “knee-grinder faction” – are to be put in their place with the one-way regulation.
“In the last two years, chaotic scenes have taken place here,” reports Roman Gold, head of the motorcycle control group of the Holzkirchen freeway police. Time and again, skid marks could be seen before bends – a clear sign of risky driving. (I was also able to discover corresponding double lanes – i.e. from cars – on site, editor’s note)
Inspection in the best weather – but not everyone knows about it
On Tuesday, May 13, numerous motorcyclists took advantage of the early summer weather for a tour through the foothills of the Bavarian Alps. The police control group positioned itself at a parking lot along the route from 10 am. Anyone heading towards Bayrischzell before 11 a.m. was still free to ride – after that the regulations came into effect. Riders were given a half-hour grace period to leave the zone in time.
However, not all bikers were aware of the new one-way traffic regulations. A trio from Munich rode unsuspectingly in the blocked direction – with a friendly face, but unaware of the ban. “Have we done something wrong?” asked one of the three, confused, when they were stopped by the police. The answer came promptly – along with a fine of €50 (approx. $54). Despite the surprise, the three took it with humor: “Shit happens.”
Rosenheim24.de quotes police officer Roman Gold: “The ban affects exactly those who only met here to speed” (a statement that is not really comprehensible, as all motorcyclists were banned. Targeted police checks would have been one way of targeting “the right people”. Editor’s note)
Confusing signage causes irritation
Although new signs have been installed along the route, their effect seems limited. “When you drive up, the signs look a bit confusing,” commented a motorcyclist from Göppingen who was traveling with a sidecar and dog. This is another reason why many bikers ask the police directly – better safe than sorry.
Some of the drivers checked were well informed and adhered to the new regulations. According to the police, word of the closure had already “spread in the relevant circles”. Nevertheless, it is clear that the communication of the new traffic routing could be clearer.
Divided opinions among motorcyclists
Not everyone agrees with the new regulations. Robert Fischer from Stephanskirchen, a regular visitor to the route, expressed clear criticism: “I think it’s bad. There are a few lunatics, there always have been – and they ruin everything.” For him, a complete closure would be more consistent, albeit not very practicable.
Other road users such as cyclists welcome the measure. The previously often dangerously divided road is now exclusively available to them uphill. Some cyclists even gave the police the thumbs up.
Conclusion: effective yes, acceptance questionable
The Sudelfeld regulation is officially an attempt to increase safety on a popular but often abused route. The controls are effective, the fines hurt – but many bikers remain skeptical. Only the course of the season will show whether the one-way regulation will prove its worth in the long term. One thing is clear: dialog between the authorities and riders remains just as necessary as transparent communication and clear signage.
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