Bielsa Tunnel?

We are thinking of potential routes for a trip from Bordeaux into
Spain. We will stay flexible, making daily decisions of where to go,
but want to have a general idea of the options before leaving.

One of the potential routes across the border into Spain is through
the Bielsa tunnel then down to Ainsa. A review of the archives of
rec.bicycles.* provides almost 20 hits, but virtually every reference
to crossing through the tunnel is by Garry Lee. Some resources say
bicycles are prohibited in the tunnel, and every commercial tour
operator seems to shuttle riders through the tunnel in vans.

Does anyone know the definitive *legal* status - are bicycles allowed
or prohibited. I know that one can ride through prohibited areas, I
am interested in the status.

- rick

I was last through the tunnel about 5 years ago. I've been through it 3
times. There was no indication of any prohibition.
You HAVE to walk through it as it's so dark if there aren't cars in there,
that you cannot balance. None of my friends could.
It takes 35 mins to walk through. I timed it the last time. The drop down to
Ainsa is magnificent.
A warning.

The climb up to the tunnel is long and hard. Bits of 10%.