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@hippy
"There is a common misconception that an object must be ferrous (include iron) to activate a traffic signal loop sensor, or that a ferrous object will perform better."
"There is another common misconception that because bicycles are smaller than cars, inductive detector loops cannot be designed to detect bicycles. This is absolutely incorrect; simply making the loop smaller puts the loop on a scale that allows easy detection of bicycles."
http://www.humantransport.org/bicycledriving/library/signals/detection.htm
"Many demand-actuated traffic signals feature a loop of wire buried in the pavement of the travel lane near the stop line. This sensor, called an "inductive loop", works as a type of metal detector. It is possible for an inductive loop sensor to detect any conductive material such as aluminum, steel, or titanium. Note that it is the shape, size, and net conductivity of the material that matters most to this type of sensor system, not whether or not the object contains iron. Also note that the wheels of the bike are the most effective bike parts for detection. Even a bike with a non-metallic frame may be detected if the rims are conductive. However, the signal sensor circuit must be adjusted to be sensitive enough."
http://www.humantransport.org/bicycledriving/library/signals/green.htm