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Bicycle indicators
Visibly better turning
Bicycle indicators: show the way - with both hands on the handlebars
You probably know the situation: You want to turn off on your bike, stick your arm out, brake with your other hand and at the same time try to keep an eye on the car behind and oncoming traffic: Did everyone really see you?
Such actions sometimes feel like a feat - but unfortunately in the middle of rush hour traffic. This can be particularly dangerous at night or in bad weather.
Turn safely with the bicycle indicator
Bicycle indicators make a huge difference here: at the touch of a button, you can easily indicate where you want to go with a light signal – while maintaining full control of your bike at all times. Another advantage: the illuminated indicator light quickly catches the eye of other road users, especially in the dark or in poor lighting conditions.
The bicycle indicator is a real relief for anyone who spends a lot of time travelling in city traffic or who finds it difficult to ride one-handed.
If you want to know how bicycle indicators work, what makes them so important in terms of safety and what legal regulations there are for indicators on bikes, you can find all the information you need here.
How it works and compatibility
Indicators are the ideal accessories for anyone looking for greater safety and comfort whilst cycling. But how do these handy indicators work, and can they be fitted to any bike?
How the bicycle indicator works
The bike indicator works in a similar way to the indicator on a car or motorbike. There is a switch or button on the handlebars with which you can set the direction of travel - i.e. left or right: A short tap triggers a short flash (comfort function), a longer press activates the continuous function and thus constant flashing.
A indicator is suitable for these bicycles
There are now indicator lights available for every type of bike, whether it’s a standard bicycle, an e-bike or a cargo bike. Indicator lights are particularly useful on bikes with wide bodies, as hand signals are often difficult to see in such cases. The power supply is the key factor: either the indicator has its own battery, or it is connected to the bike’s electrical system.
Are indicators permitted on bicycles?
Although bicycle indicators provide significantly more safety on the bike, they have only been approved for all bicycle models since 2024. Previously, the StVZO only allowed multi-track bikes and bikes with a body to have indicators. Since the change in the law, the installation of a bicycle indicator is now possible and recommended without restriction - but it is still not mandatory.
Above all, it is important that your indicator is StVZO-approved. This applies to both TURNTEC systems.
Bicycle indicators with a rechargeable battery: a wireless retrofit for any bike
The TURNTEC T2 is our battery-powered indicator system for all bikes, from city bikes to mountain bikes. Unlike the TURNTEC T4, which is connected directly to the electric motor, the T2 operates completely independently of an external power supply: the built-in battery (700 mAh) is housed directly in the handlebars and can be conveniently charged via USB-C, with no cables running through the frame.
Retrofitting is straightforward, and no special tools are required for installation: the two indicator units, made from robust aluminium, are inserted into the handlebar ends and are suitable for inner diameters of 17.5 to 19.5 mm and handlebars with a bend of up to 20°. The flashing signal is activated with a quick flick of the palm, whilst full control of the handlebars is maintained at all times.
The cycle indicator set is approved under the StVZO, is splash- and rain-proof, and comes with a battery level indicator. The battery and individual parts are replaceable, in line with busch+müller’s philosophy of sustainability.
E-bike indicators: Power supplied directly from the motor
The TURNTEC T4 is designed for e-bikes and S-pedelecs. It draws its power directly from the bike’s drive system and therefore does not require a separate power source: as long as the e-bike battery is charged, the indicator is ready for use.
The set consists of four indicator lights – two at the front and two at the rear. This ensures you’re visible from both directions, which is particularly important in heavy city traffic and at blind junctions. The system is connected to the bike’s electrical system, which means retrofitting depends on the specific drive system.
It’s best to check directly with your specialist dealer to see if your e-bike is suitable. The system is approved under the StVZO, as is our battery-powered indicator set.
Fitting: do it yourself or have it fitted by a specialist retailer
How complicated the fitting process is depends on the system: the battery-powered indicator does not require a connection to the vehicle’s electrical system, whilst the e-bike indicator uses the vehicle’s electrical system. The following videos show how both are fitted.
Fitting battery-powered indicators yourself
Installation is quick and requires no special tools; the video shows you, step by step, how to fit the wireless cycle indicator into the handlebar ends and get it up and running.
E-bike indicators: Fitting via the electrical system
Connecting to the on-board power supply requires technical knowledge, particularly with e-bikes and S-pedelecs. We therefore recommend having the installation carried out by a qualified specialist dealer. That way, you can be sure that everything works properly and complies with legal requirements. The video shows, step by step, how to fit the four indicator lights to the bike and connect them to the electrical system.
Tip: You can find specialist retailers for TURNTEC indicators in your area using our dealer locator.
