What is the difference between an auxiliary road and a non-motorized vehicle lane?

[KylieLynn]

The difference between an auxiliary road and a non-motorized vehicle lane lies in their different functions, specifications, and quantities. Here are the relevant details: 1. Different functions: When there are too many vehicles on the main road and traffic pressure is high, some vehicles can first drive on the auxiliary road to alleviate the traffic pressure on the main road. 2. Different specifications: When there is a physical separation between one-way motor vehicle lanes and non-motorized vehicle lanes, the width of the motor vehicle lane should not be less than 7.5m; when there is a marked separation between one-way motor vehicles and non-motorized vehicles, the width of the auxiliary road should not be less than 8.5m; when both motor vehicle and non-motorized vehicle traffic volumes are high, the width of the auxiliary road can be 12~13m. 3. Different quantities: Auxiliary roads should be set on both sides or one side of the main road in ground-level expressways, on the ground level under elevated roads in elevated expressways, and should preferably be continuously set in urban areas. For auxiliary roads of expressways located in suburban areas, they can be set continuously or intermittently.

[KaiAnn]

As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, I've found that service roads function more like secondary urban passages where motor vehicles are permitted but must maintain lower speeds, sometimes sharing space with cyclists or pedestrians—a real test of driving skills. Bike lanes, however, are entirely different: dedicated exclusively to bicycles and e-bikes, strictly prohibiting motor vehicles. The key distinction lies in access: service roads cater to motor vehicles, serving localized areas with potential intersections or parking spaces, whereas bike lanes—narrower and often protected by barriers—ensure safe passage for riders. Confusing the two while driving can lead to accidents, like mistakenly entering a cycling zone on a service road, which may result in fines. Always stay alert to road signs when navigating service roads.

[StBrandon]

From the perspective of urban traffic layout, service roads serve as connectors to arterial roads, facilitating smooth vehicular flow without vehicle type restrictions; whereas bicycle lanes are dedicated paths exclusively designed for cyclists, completely segregated from motor vehicles. The distinction lies in their function and design: service roads may share space, allowing mixed traffic, while bicycle lanes are separated by green belts or guardrails to ensure safety. This is crucial for enhancing overall road efficiency—confusing the two leads to higher accident rates. Urban planning should prioritize physical segregation to provide non-motorized users with exclusive pathways.

[DeCharlotte]

As someone who commutes by bike every day, I know this best: the non-motorized lane is my paradise, dedicated to cyclists, offering freedom of speed and peace of mind; the auxiliary road is crowded with cars, feeling super dangerous. The difference is simple: one is a dedicated route designed for us, the other is a road for motor vehicles, prone to conflicts. Getting splashed by cars on the auxiliary road on rainy days is really annoying, while the non-motorized lane is much safer. Building more dedicated lanes in the city would make cycling more enjoyable.