Biking Essentials: Bike Lights and Reflective Gear
Being visible when you’re biking is key to your safety -- especially if you’re riding at dawn, dusk or at night. Bike lights greatly increase your visibility and the more visible you are, the safer you'll be. Try to ensure you are visible for all angles, especially in the dark.
Bike light tips:
-
Use white lights in front and red lights in the rear.
-
Don’t forget to check your batteries and keep a spare set.
-
A wide range of bike lights are available through local and online retailers – many of which are relatively inexpensive.
-
Consider high-quality halogen lights, if you bike a great distance or ride on roads where lighting is poor or variable.
-
Consider adding extra lights; extra visibility never hurts.
Other ways to increase how visible you are on the road:
-
Clip a flashing light to your jacket or pack.
-
Put some inexpensive reflective tape (available at local bike shops and other retail stores) on the front and back of your jacket.
-
Use a front, back and side reflector.
-
Wear reflective bands on your helmet, wheel spokes and even your pant legs.
-
Being more visible to drivers can make a big difference in how safe you are on the road.
More On Bike Essentials: