Whether you're riding in the city, training or out for leisure, safety is not something to be taken lightly, especially at night or in low-light conditions. In addition to active lighting (i.e. lighting that emits its own light) and compulsory retroreflectors, there are many additional devices, either for the cyclist himself or for his bike.
But how do you choose the accessories best suited to your riding style? Here's some advice.
DIFFERENT EQUIPMENT AND ACCESSORIES
- Equipment for cyclists : clothing, belt, armband, helmet, covers
- Equipment for the bike : spray, tires, hazard spreader, stickers, panniers
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT REFLECTIVE EQUIPMENT AND ACCESSORIES
CYCLIST VISIBILITY
Most brands offer a high-visibility version of their clothing and accessories range, adding this safety function to their primary purpose. There are also specific products designed to enhance cyclist protection. Here are the main products available on the market.
Reflective fabric
From jackets and pants to gloves, vests and shoe covers, you'll find a reflective fabric or inserts on the vast majority of cycling clothing and accessories. These are generally available in a fluorescent yellow color for even greater visibility and safety, but are sometimes available in more neutral colors for those who don't want to sacrifice aesthetics.
Also in this category are safety vests - which, it should be remembered, must be worn outside built-up areas. Alongside the traditional model, there are also more sophisticated models that will enable you to combine style and safety.
Safety belts
An interesting alternative to the vest, the seatbelt has the dual advantage of being lightweight and of fitting perfectly, for good visibility both front and rear, and ease of use.
Armband
Reflective armbands are quick and easy to install. While some models have self-rolling properties, others feature a Velcro strap for a compression-free fit. Others also incorporate LEDs for enhanced visibility.
Helmet
Many helmets now feature reflective inserts. On some models, you'll even find a lighting system integrated into the back of the helmet. This system sometimes incorporates an accelerometer to provide a stop light when you brake.
Backpack and helmet cover
In addition to offering a large reflective surface, these products provide effective protection from the rain and can be compacted, taking up minimal space when stored. They allow you to use your current equipment in optimum safety conditions, without having to buy a new bag or specific helmet.
BIKE VISIBILITY
The other way to increase your visibility and therefore your safety, and which can be complementary to theequipment is to fit your bike with safety accessories. In most cases, these require only a modest investment, but they can be a great help in making you visible to other road users.
Reflective spray
Economical, and as simple to use as it is effective, reflective spray gives reflective properties to any object, with visibility up to 50 meters while remaining totally invisible during the day. Water-resistant and compatible with all types of material, it's safe for your bike, and the treatment has a lifespan of up to twelve months. In addition to your bike, it can also be used on your clothes, shoes, helmet, etc. without any problem.
Tires and hazard spacers
Many tires, especially urban models, feature reflective sidewalls. The advantage is to ensure lateral visibility, where lighting sometimes reaches its limits. These tires are particularly useful in city intersections, to give you a clear view of oncoming traffic.
The hazard spreader is a simple accessory that nevertheless fulfils a dual function. Not only does it encourage motorists to keep their distance, it also greatly increases your visibility thanks to the integrated reflector. On the other hand, it somewhat impairs maneuverability and the ability to get out of traffic jams.
Reflective stickers
Made from glass powder, these stickers are easy to apply to your frame, handlebars or brake levers, and provide excellent 360° visibility. All as discreet and lightweight as they are effective.
Spoke clips
Like stickers, reflective clips install in seconds on wheel spokes. Made from reflective material, they don't move once in place, and create a unique visual effect after dark!
Handlebar bags/luggage racks
Manufacturers of luggage now offer a range dedicated to visibility. Based on the design of classic models, these products are made from reflective fabric to combine practicality and safety.
WHICH EQUIPMENT AND ACCESSORIES ARE RIGHT FOR ME?
High-visibility textiles can represent quite an investment. Designed specifically for cycling, with a more or less snug fit and a longer rear panel, they nevertheless provide maximum comfort and practicality for regular cyclists.
We therefore strongly recommend that road cyclists who regularly go out in winter, or demanding cyclists, equip themselves with a minimum of a jacket, complemented by pants, shoe covers, helmet covers and gloves, depending on their needs.
Treating the bike with a reflective spray can provide additional visibility without altering the bike's aesthetics.
For occasional cycling, an armband and/or seatbelt, possibly complemented by a helmet with reflective inserts, will provide the necessary visibility for a good level of safety.
For purely urban use, a vest or jacket, combined with reflective tires, is a good base. Depending on your tastes, a backpack cover or a high-visibility pannier will ideally complete this basic equipment.
Of course, all these devices do not dispense with the compulsory bicycle signalling equipment:
- At least 1 yellow/white light and 1 white reflector at the front;
- At least 1 red light and 1 red retro-reflector at the rear. The lighting angle must be at least 120°;
- At least 1 orange retro-reflector on each pedal and on the sides (spokes or tires).
