Cycling by numbers
What are cycle nodes?
Cycle nodes are numbered junctions in a signposted cycle network — the node network. At every node there is a sign with a number and signposts to the neighbouring nodes. Instead of reading maps, you follow a sequence of numbers — for example — and find your way reliably. Alongside the NRW network, Radrunde knows the nationwide Dutch one; they connect at the border crossings.
How the numbering works
Every junction carries a number unique in its surroundings. The signposts at the node show direction and number of the neighbours you can reach. On the road you only remember the next number — if you miss a turning, the next sign leads you back into the system.
Planning a loop
The classic way is a network map: find your starting node, work from number to number, add up the distances between nodes and close the loop at the start. It works — but it takes time, and hitting the distance you want is manual work.
Cycle nodes in North Rhine-Westphalia
North Rhine-Westphalia is fully covered: the statewide network has around 3,051 numbered nodes and roughly 23,800 kilometres of signposted routes — from the flat Münsterland to the Eifel. The data is state open data (radverkehrsnetz.nrw.de) and stays free in Radrunde for good. Details by region: all regions at a glance.
Cycling by numbers
“Radeln nach Zahlen” (cycling by numbers) is how tourist boards promote the node system — exactly the network described here. Depending on region and brochure it is also called node system, cycle nodes or simply node network; the numbers on the signs work the same everywhere. Radrunde uses the same data and takes the slowest manual part off your hands: finding the right sequence of numbers for a loop of the distance you want.
Automatic with Radrunde
Radrunde takes over the planning: tap a start point, set the distance you want — the app calculates up to three loops over the node network, no account needed. On the road you navigate node by node.
Key terms explained
- Node
- A numbered junction in the cycle network. A sign at the node shows the number and signposts to the neighbouring nodes.
- Node network
- The signposted cycle network whose junctions are numbered nodes. In North Rhine-Westphalia it has around 3,051 nodes and roughly 23,800 kilometres of routes.
- Cycling by numbers
- Riding the node network: you note a sequence of numbers and follow the signposts from number to number.
Frequently asked questions
What is a node?
A node is a numbered junction in the cycle network. A sign on site shows the number and signposts to the neighbouring nodes — you navigate by riding from number to number.
Do I need a map or GPS?
On the road the signposting is enough: at every node a signpost points to the next number. A map or app like Radrunde mainly helps with planning — which numbers make a loop of the length you want?
Where are there node networks?
The idea comes from Belgium and the Netherlands, where it is nationwide. In Germany the system is growing; North Rhine-Westphalia is fully covered by the NRW cycle network. Radrunde plans on both: the NRW network and the nationwide Dutch node network.
Is it called cycle nodes or bicycle nodes?
Both mean the same: the numbered junctions in the signposted cycle network. Also used are node system, node network and, as tourist boards call it, “Radeln nach Zahlen” (cycling by numbers).
Is there a free node route planner for NRW?
Yes. Radrunde plans loops over the cycle nodes in North Rhine-Westphalia: choose a start point and distance, get up to three loops, navigate node by node. The NRW network is free for good, no account, no ads.
Can I plan a loop across the Dutch border?
Yes. The NRW network and the Dutch network are connected at the border crossings. Start near the border — in Kleve, Emmerich or Vaals, say — and a loop can lead across and back; the same goes for one-way routes to a destination. In the Netherlands itself you plan just as in NRW.