Warning

W11-1Bicycle

W11-1 Bicycle — MUTCD traffic control sign
W11-1 Bicycle

Sign Specifications

W11-1 specifications
CodeW11-1
NameBicycle
CategoryWarning
ShapeDiamond
ColorYellow / black
CA statusRecognized in the California MUTCD (2026)
MUTCD reference§ 2C.49 (MUTCD 11th Edition)
CA MUTCD referenceCalifornia MUTCD (2026)

What This Sign Means

The W11-1 Bicycle sign is a yellow diamond with a black symbol or legend. It warns road users of bicycle ahead so they can adjust speed and position before reaching the condition.

California Field Use

  • Alerts drivers to bicycle on California roadways approaching and within a work area.
  • Selected and spaced according to approach speed and sight distance.
  • Often paired with advisory speed plaques where a reduced speed is appropriate.

Where It Goes on a TCP

Advance-warning area — upstream of the condition so drivers can adjust in time.

MUTCD Requirements

The W11-1 Bicycle is addressed under Part 2C (warning signs) of the MUTCD 11th Edition (MUTCD § 2C.49). Read the governing standard, guidance, option, and support text in the official MUTCD before applying it.

Read the MUTCD 11th Edition →

California Requirements

California adopts this sign through the California MUTCD, sometimes with state-specific sizing or application notes. A common conventional-road size is 36 x 36 in; larger sizes apply on expressways and freeways. Confirm the size and application for your facility against the current CA MUTCD (2026) and the Caltrans sign specifications and Standard Plans.

W11-1 Bicycle sizes
ApplicationStandard Size
Conventional Road36 x 36 in
Expressway / Freeway48 x 48 in
Minimum30 x 30 in

California MUTCD (Caltrans) →

Common Plan Review Comments

  • Advance-warning distance too short for the posted speed.
  • Advisory speed plaque missing where a reduced speed is intended.
  • Sign legend or symbol not the current MUTCD 11th Edition version.
  • Sight distance to the sign obstructed.

Compliance Notes

  • Advance distance matches the approach speed.
  • Legend is current and legible.
  • Mounting height and offset are correct.

Related Compliance Topics

Learn more in Pedestrian Access.

This is an educational reference only. Always verify sign selection, size, placement, and application against the current CA MUTCD 2026, Caltrans sign specifications, Standard Plans, project documents, and the reviewing agency's requirements.