Cycle lane kerbs are precast concrete elements that physically separate the cycle route from the vehicle carriageway or footway, improving cyclist safety and clearly marking the boundaries of the cycle facility. In Italy, cycle lane design is governed by Ministerial Decree 557/1999, which defines minimum widths, types of cycle facility and criteria for separation from vehicular and pedestrian flows.
Why dedicated kerbs are needed for cycle lanes
A cycle lane without reliable physical separation exposes cyclists to the risk of accidental encroachment by vehicles or pedestrians, especially on bends or near junctions. Cycle lane kerbs perform three functions at the same time: they visually define the route, retain the cycle paving and prevent edge failure, and — in traffic-separator versions — form a continuous physical barrier between the cycle lane and the carriageway, as required in many public-sector specifications for segregated cycle tracks.
What the regulations say about cycle lane kerbs
Ministerial Decree 557 of 30 November 1999 is the national regulatory reference for cycle lane design in Italy: it sets minimum lane widths, types of facility (segregated track, reserved lane, shared route) and the general criteria for separation from other traffic flows. The decree does not specify exact kerb dimensions, which are instead defined by the technical specification issued by the contracting authority or by the designer, according to the context (urban, extra-urban, segregated track or on-road cycle lane). For a broader technical overview of the applicable standards, see the BibLus/ACCA guide to cycle lane design.
Types of kerbs for cycle lanes
Separation requirements vary considerably according to the context, and different kerb types are used to meet these different needs.
| Type | Function | Typical context |
| Traffic-separator kerb | Continuous physical barrier between cycle track and vehicle carriageway | Segregated cycle tracks on higher-speed roads |
| Low flush kerb | Visual separation without a significant level difference | Shared cycle and pedestrian routes in urban areas |
| Shaped kerb for curves | Follows the route’s curvature radius | Junctions, roundabouts and curved sections |
How kerbs are installed on cycle lanes
Installation follows standard roadwork practice: a correctly compacted draining sub-base, a concrete or cement-mortar bedding layer, and kerbs aligned to the design route with regular joints. On curved sections, shaped units are used so that straight pieces are not forced beyond their permitted radius. Traffic-separator kerbs must also be securely anchored to the sub-base, because their containment function requires stability even in the event of accidental impact.
Why choose Senini for cycle lane kerbs
Senini has manufactured concrete kerbs and edging units in Montichiari, in the province of Brescia, since 1960, with a range that includes traffic-separator, low and shaped kerbs for different curve radii — available in the Kerbs section of the online catalogue. For a broader overview of how to choose among the available kerb and edging types, see Kerbs and Edging: Complete Selection Guide.
What regulations apply to cycle lanes in Italy?
Ministerial Decree 557 of 30 November 1999 sets the general design criteria for cycle lanes in Italy, including minimum widths and types of facility; the specific dimensions of the kerbs are defined in the technical specification for each individual project.
Do cycle lane kerbs have to meet a minimum height?
There is no nationally prescribed minimum height specifically for kerbs: the height must be agreed with the designer according to the required function (visual separation or physical barrier) and the requirements stated in the contracting authority’s specification.
What is the difference between a traffic-separator kerb and a flush kerb?
A traffic-separator kerb has a taller, more robust section designed to act as a physical barrier between the cycle track and the carriageway; a flush kerb has only a minimal level difference and is intended mainly to provide visual separation on shared cycle and pedestrian routes.
Can cycle lane kerbs be customised in different colours?
Yes. Many public specifications require specific colours (for example, red to identify cycle sections): the Senini range is available in different finishes and colours, to be agreed at quotation stage according to the project.