Gardaí have launched an awareness campaign for cyclists ahead of the introduction of ramped-up rules this month.

Cyclists seen breaking the rules will be warned over the next fortnight that their behaviour will attract a €40 fine after July 31st.

Gardaí will also be handing out leaflets on the new rules, including a sample fixed charge penalty notice.

The fines have been described as 'on-the-spot' fines, but cyclists will only be required to provide name and address on the spot so that authorities can send out their fines.

Gardaí say if an officer suspects a cyclist is giving them a false name or address, they have the power to seize that person's bike. In fact gardaí have always had that power, but it seems authorities will be newly vigilant from July 31st.

Transport Minister Paschal Donohoe announced the changes earlier this month.

Superintendent John Ferris of the Garda Press Office says gardaí want to educate road users and the new campaign is not designed to catch cyclists out.

Sample of the fixed charge penalty notice gardaí will issue to offending cyclists

Cycling groups like Cyclist.ie have criticised what they see as the gardaí's relaxed attitude to drivers' offences, such as parking in cycle lanes and overtaking cyclists in a frightening way. In response, the garda spokesman says "We want to promote cycling but safe cycling. Cyclists need to be safe and seen and also stop at red traffic lights. Garda would also urge drivers to respect cyclists and allow them adequate room when overtaking and do not park on cycle lanes."

Info on fixed-charge penalty notices for cyclists starting on 1 August. Will drivers stop parking in cycle tracks? http://t.co/g8D1Nxd8Ng

— Cyclistie (@Cyclistie) July 17, 2015

The changes comes as Irish streets witness a huge increase in the number of cyclists, thanks in part to the government's Bike to Work scheme. Under that programme, workers can avail of a tax-free option to buy a bike and equipment.

Cyclists are already providing anecdotal reports that behaviour on the roads is changing with fewer people willing to break red lights.

Safety developments

Cyclists too are concerned about their safety on the road, in fact some of them have grouped together to develop the lumos bicycle helmet, which is currently seeking funding on Kickstarter. Described as 'The ultimate bicycle helmet with brake lights and turn signals' the makers say it will help save lives.

The lumos bicycle helmet, developed by cyclists. Photo: Lumos on Kickstarter

Lumos specs via: Lumos on Kickstarter

Meanwhile, the Hövding airbag for cyclists, or invisible cycle helmet, that garnered such interest when it was first introduced as a start-up product is now available to buy.

Developed by two Swedish designers, the head protection folds down into a scarf with its airbag only inflating on impact.