On some/most intersections you'll see thin lines cut into the concrete. Inside these lines are loops of wire called an induction loop that go back to the traffic light control box. I'm assuming when there are no lines cut they're placed below the top layer of bitumen, or the lights ALWAYS cycle...... anyone know?
The loop and control box actually detect the metal of your bike because of the way the your bike/car affects the induction (think flow/strength of magnetic field) of the loop, because metal is a good conductor of magnetic fields.
So, there are 2 things you can do. Position yourself differently over the loop, or strap a big magnet to your bike (yes it works and you can buy them, there's a thread somewhere on here for them).
Dunno what the law says, I run the red eventually too - how long are we supposed to wait?
