The introduction of new BUS lanes in downtown Funchal has raised questions about who is permitted to use these routes, specifically bicycles.
According to the Highway Code, bicycles are classified as "velocipedes" (pedal-powered vehicles) and not as motorcycles. Article 77, concerning reserved traffic lanes, was amended in April 2025 to expressly allow motorcycles and motorized tricycles. Bicycles were not included in this automatic authorization.
The Traffic Signage Regulation, via signal D6, designates BUS lanes for public transport, taxis, emergency vehicles, and police vehicles. Funchal's City Council confirmed that this list applies to the new lanes, with the addition of motorcycles and motorized tricycles as permitted by law.
While Portuguese legislation does allow for shared BUS lanes with "velocipedes," these must be specifically configured and signed for such use, which is not the case for Funchal's new lanes.
