Cycling as a form or sport and commuting is on a rapid incline over the last few years. The Covid-19 pandemic has of course accelerated this increase due to the desire of independence and ability to social distance, along with the benefit of quieter roads, especially during the first lockdown. This increase in bike presence along with fellow motor vehicles on the London roads, road safety has never been of greater importance. Despite attempts to make the roads safer, non-cycling road users would still benefit from education of road sharing with bicycles. If you are a driver, this is a great resource: Tips for drivers: sharing the road with cyclists
One of the biggest causes of collisions involved with cyclists is visibility. Or lack of. Whether this be a result of poor weather conditions or a lack of extra attention of the driver, making yourself unmissable is of every cyclists’ priority.
While there are great strategies in place to help educate drivers, there is a still a long way to go to marry these two modes of transport on the same London roads.
There are a few ways that you can increase your visibility on the roads.
Firstly is having reflective garments or accessories.
Whether this be a reflective cycling gilet, a backpack cover or arm/leg bands, reflectivity is a really good way of being visible. The advantages of arm and leg bands is that it also emphasises any arm signalling and also helps vehicles understand you are a cyclist in lower light conditions.
Another great way is good front and rear bike lights. Never underestimate the benefit of a good quality light. Not only does it make you more visible to others, but it also makes your upcoming path more visible to you. This bike light set has been my favourite, with great attachment options and is rechargeable - you can’t find a better deal at £10.99!
One important point to consider is the angle at which your front light is positioned. What you do not want is to glare the drivers’ from behind or oncoming so that they cannot judge your distance or location. You want to aim your front light beam to be illuminating the ground about 10-20 metres ahead. If you cycle at a greater speed, this should be angled a little further ahead. Make sure nothing is obscuring your rear lights especially, such as your saddle bag, coat or bag.
Now last, but not least, are bells/horns. Although they may not be aesthetically pleasing or sightly, this is particularly important in cities where pedestrians may not see cyclists. They enable you to alert others through sound, especially if you are travelling at a speed where emergency breaking will not save you or them.
If you've never seen a sexy bike bell, this is it. Pretty sleek in my opinion.
These are all little things that make a big difference.
Be safe. Be seen.
See you out on the roads.
Flashing like a Christmas tree.
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