“Cyclists, shine!”It is in these terms that the French Federation of Bicycle Users registered, in early November, its awareness campaign on lighting both cycling and cycling. Being seen by other road users and thus limit the risk of accidents: that is the challenge. In 2014, cyclists were 4.7% of road deaths. If you ride your bike to the dark hours of the day, these safety tips are for you.
It is the rules of the road that says (R.313-4 to R.313-20), any cycle in circulation should be equipped with certified equipment reflecting light or illuminating: a sidelight transmitting to the before a non-glare, white or yellow a rear position lamp one or more rear reflectors visible orange reflectors laterally pedals of any cycle, moped or a light quadricycle motor must have reflectors, except in the case of two-wheeled cycles retractable pedals white reflector visible from the front. Any ring may comprise aft and left a reflective safety distance spacer device.
One can opt for the active light; an electrical device emits its own light thanks to an onboard power source (generator, battery, battery, inductive device, etc.) that can see and also to be seen.
It should be completed by passive reflective lighting, indispensable element to ensure the visibility of the cyclist, and to counter any failure of the active light. This system naturally reflects light in the direction from which it comes, does not require its own power source and is very effective in the auto headlights beam.
Finally many nifty reflective accessories complete the set: bike clamp; adhesive glue on the frame, fenders, seat post, handlebars, etc. ; Reflective Circle in the spokes or rays sticks; tires with reflective tape …
The visibility of the cyclist fluorescent vest
Since 1 October 2008, wearing high-visibility reflective vest is mandatory outside built at night or when visibility is poor. Without this equipment, the rider is liable to a second class ticket. Reflective clothing
The first simple reflex to adopt when traveling by bike is to wear bright clothing and banish all that is dark, day and night, in the city or in the countryside. Light-colored clothes allow them to be visible to 50m, and emerge as the first step to avoid the accident. As soon as the brightness of the day decreases, the clothes are sewn with retro reflective tapes, allowing to be spotted 150 m, Reflective accessories everywhere
Panache remains visible on the surfaces of various reflective cycling accessories: reflective armbands for the arm or ankle, backpack bags or bags with reflective tape, pants clips, hats, and schoolbags.
Finally, bring small lamps or LED headlamps: the luggage rack on the luggage, clothing, bags, trailers, helmets, key rings…
Good news: it is possible to secure elegantly bicycle! The brands of ready-to-wear clothing are beginning to integrate reflective in their collections. And know that retro-reflective tape sewing everywhere is also commercially available.