Dangerous route with a long history?
The L 1152 is popular with motorcyclists – precisely because of its winding route and good condition. But it is precisely this popularity that has led to problems in recent years: According to the authorities, numerous bikers use the road to test their riding skills away from the rules of the road. This is said to have regularly led to dangerous situations, serious accidents and an increasing burden on the emergency services.
Residents in the surrounding villages have also been complaining about massive motorcycle noise for a long time – especially on sunny weekends in spring and summer. The district of Sonneberg is now responding with a clear measure.
Ban in force since May 1, 2025
The corresponding prohibition signs were put up on May 1, 2025. Since then, motorcycles are no longer allowed to drive on the affected section of the L 1152 on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. The regulation applies up to and including October 31, 2025 – all day on the days mentioned.
Although the district of Sonneberg officially states the period from April 1 to October 31, 2025 as the validity period of the measure, the signs were not actually put up until May 1. It remains to be seen whether this is a one-off traffic trial in 2025 or whether a repeat is planned for the following year.
Cooperation across national borders
The measure was decided in close cooperation with the Thuringian State Administration Office, the Sonneberg police station, the Saalfeld state police station, the municipality of Föritztal and the Bavarian market town of Tettau. The aim is to reduce the number of accidents, relieve the burden on the emergency services and improve the quality of life of local residents.
The district office emphasizes that the ban is not directed against motorcyclists in general, but is a response to specific problems. The situation on the L 1152 had worsened to such an extent that the measure was deemed necessary.
What happens next
It is currently unclear whether the closure will be extended beyond 2025, but it is likely – if we are honest, then a permanent closure is also the goal. The district is talking about a traffic trial for testing purposes. An evaluation of the measure is not likely to take place until the fall at the earliest. At least until then, the route will remain closed to motorcycles at weekends and on public holidays.
