|
|
 |
Cycling at Night | |
|
|
|
|
Cycling at Night
Riding at night can be as enjoyable as riding during the daylight - it just takes a little more awareness. Recognise the dangers and dress accordingly. Remember that rider visibility is vital at all times, not just at night. Both early morning and dusk have low levels of light that demand cyclists stay alert and be properly equipped to be seen.
REFLECTORS
These are mandatory on all bikes. By law, there must be a red reflector at least 38mm in diameter at the rear of the bike. Orange reflectors are fitted to both wheels and the front and back of pedals. A white reflector is mounted at the front of the bike. Remember, reflectors alone will not make the night cyclist visible.
LIGHTS
If you ride at night you must by law use lights - a continuous white light at the front and a red light at the rear. That sounds simple, but types and prices of lights vary enormously - don't make your decision on price alone. For the front, look for a bright quartz halogen light (flashing white LED lights can only be used in conjunction with a main light that has an unbroken white beam). For the rear, a flashing red LED type is acceptable, but beware of the cheaper variety as their performance can be questionable.
A tip for riding at night in traffic is to aim the front light at the eye level of car drivers to maximise your chance of being seen. If you are not in traffic, aim the light beam lower to illuminate the ground ahead of your bike. |
 |
 |
POWER SOURCES
Friction dynamos, which run on either the tyre sidewall, or tread, are a long-lasting power source. However, they make the bike harder to pedal and only work if the bike is moving - if the bike is stationary there is no power and hence no lights. In addition, many dynamos have no voltage regulator and speedy cyclists can burn out the bulbs.
Battery-powered light sets are generally cheaper than dynamo sets, can be removed easily to avoid theft, and provide constant power to the lights, even when the bike is stationary. |
However, the batteries need to be constantly replaced. Rechargeable batteries are expensive and generally bulkier and heavier than the disposable type, but are the best choice for regular night cyclists.
 |
HIGH VISIBILITY CLOTHING
Just as bright fluoro clothes are best for daylight riding, white clothes are necessary for rider visibility at night. Best of all are garments with reflective panels. Bike shops sell jackets, shirts and lightweight vests that slip over your ordinary cycling clothing.
Highly recommended also, are reflective anklets, cloth or plastic reflective tape and stickers. These are cheap, weigh virtually nothing, are available in red or white for the rear or front of the bike respectively, and can be attached anywhere on the bike, helmet or rider.
BEING ALERT
The number one rule is to cycle defensively. Watch out for joggers, walkers, other cyclists and cars - and make sure they know you're there.
At night, cars approaching with their headlights on high beam can dazzle a rider, so be prepared.
Watch your shadow if you are approached by a car from behind. If your shadow does not start to move to the left as the car approaches, move your bike to the left. |
This publication is available in alternative formats (e.g. audiotape, computer disk, large print or Braille) by contacting Bikewest on 9216 8000.
The following brochures in this series are available at bicycle retailers.
 |
|
|
|
|
|
