by John Brown
Clothing that makes you more visible and noticeable
Read on to see where each is most helpful and efficient.
The easiest way to be visible is to wear obvious clothing. Whereas black may be slimming, it doesn’t offer others the best chance to see you. The most visible color available is high-visibility (hi-vis) yellow. It is bright yellow, not found in nature, and stands out against the backdrop of most normal roads and paths. If hi-vis yellow isn’t for you, try wearing other colors that stand out, like bright blue, red, or orange. Better yet, an obnoxious pattern of several of the above-mentioned colors, so you are sure to be noticed.
Lights that make you visible and noticeable
Many companies recommend that riders use their lights during the day and at night for a good reason. Active forms of visibility, like blinking lights, do a lot to attract others’ attention. For best visibility and longest battery life, use your lights in “blink mode” rather than a steady beam.
Reflectors that make you more visible and noticeable
Most cars sold in the US are equipped with daytime running lights. For that reason, the reflectors on your bike will reflect light back to drivers during the day and alert them to your presence. Beyond the standard reflectors your bicycle comes with, think about adding adhesive reflective tape to bags, helmets, and your bike.
Position
Being visible while riding can be as simple as your position on the road. In situations where there isn’t enough room for a bike and a car, be sure to take up enough space to ensure no driver could miss seeing you, or try to “squeeze” past. Also, ride at a controlled speed in areas with blind corners, driveways, or crosswalks. Additionally, don’t stop in places where others can’t see you until it’s too late.
Signal
No amount of visibility will make up for erratic riding. Be sure to signal where you are going so auto drivers, other cyclists, and/or pedestrians know where you are headed. When overtaking riders or walkers from behind, be sure to let them know where you are going with a simple “on your left” or “on your right.” Then, give them a moment before passing and ring a bell if you have one.
Kids
Kids riding bikes is something we need to preserve in this digital world. The best way to keep kids on bikes is to keep them fun and safe. Try to have two adults ride with the kids, one leading and one following. Be sure to remind children of how and when to signal, and dress them in colorful clothing. Because kids’ bikes are lower to the ground than adult bikes, they can go unnoticed. A flag mounted on the bike reminds drivers that there is a bike below.
Following these tips will limit the chance of an accident and keep your ride fun and safe.
About John Brown, the author
John operates Browns Bicycle in Richfield, MN, as a lifelong cyclist and consummate tinkerer. It all started for him in grade school when the bike bug bit, and the fever still existed. Now, and over the past thirty years, he has worked at every level in the bike industry. He is starting, like most, sweeping floors and learning anything he can about bikes. He eventually graduated to service manager and then to store manager. Over the years, he has spent extensive time designing and sourcing bicycles and parts for some of the world’s largest bike companies. All the while focusing on helping as many people as possible enjoy the love of riding a bike. In that pursuit, he has taught classes (both scheduled and impromptu) on all things bikes. John also believes in helping every rider attain their optimal fit on the cycle of their dreams. Please feel free to stop in anytime to talk about bikes, fit, and parts, or to share your latest ride. You can also see John’s tricks and tips on the Brown Bicycle Facebook Page.
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