The following is a list of the technical criteria used in the cycle network:

• Function: The signs are principally to give information on the direction, the distance in kilometres, and the name of the next destination along the route.

• Colour: We have followed the norms of the Italian Highway Code (CdS) (Regulation DPR495/92.) and use a white background in urban areas when the destination is within the area itself. When the destination is outside the urban area, a brown background will be used, even if the sign itself is still within the urban area. The signs contain a symbol of a bicycle (fig. II 131, art. 125 DPR 495/92) We must remind cyclists that the signs do not represent a right of way or offer any more protection than the normal Italian Highway Code describes.

• Form: The Italian Highway Code (CdS) describes two shapes of direction signs: Rectangular for urban areas. Arrow-shaped for the countryside.

• Dimensions: The Italian Highway Code (CdS) describes signs that are easily visible and comprehensible. However, the signs along dedicated cycle routes, where normal vehicular traffic is excluded or restricted, much smaller signs are used. This is to reduce the visual impact of the signs on the natural environment.

• Symbols and characters: Added to the normal information provided by the Italian Highway Code (CdS) signs, we have provided further information on the route, the symbols of the regions, provinces and local councils, as well as the BICITALIA logo.

Along each route there is:

– Vertical safety signage, in particular in the vicinity of crossroads or junctions;

– Directional signage (both horizontal and vertical format) for excursionists;

– Detailed panels for directions in wood and metal placed along both asphalted and non-asphalted roads.

Every cycle route has a series of signs along its length which indicate the beginning and end of the route, the direction of the route, the times and distances involved, as well as information on the level of difficulty. Given that certain sections of some of the cycle routes share public road space, warning signs to traffic of the presence of cyclists have been erected along the roads.