Every cyclist knows he or she must ride defensively. No matter who’s fault it is, if a bike or trike rider tangles with a car, the cycle rider always loses. So those of us that love to cycle always remain alert to what is happening all around us.
One of the best ways to avoid a close encounter with a smog-belching metal monster on the road is to make yourself and your bike or trike not just visible to the motorist, but make yourself eye catching.
Make them see you. Wear vibrant, bright colors. Choose colors that stand out from normal roadside objects. Bright orange, yellow and lime green really catch the eye. When riding from dusk to dawn, reflective clothing is essential.
But don’t stop there. Fly a bright colored flag that moves as you ride. Some riders use windsocks or spinners. The color and movement will draw attention and help motorists notice you are there. Having reflective material on the flag really helps when riding at night. Use the right material and cars will see you from hundreds of feet away.
And, of course, don’t forget lights for night riding. Flashing or strobe lights work best at helping motorists see you. Solid red or yellow lights are too common to grab the attention of a motorist at night.
Don’t forget to wear a helmet. Not wearing one increases your risk of serious traumatic brain injury.
Perhaps doing all these things may not enhance your image as a super-cool biker, but it may keep you out of the hospital. It may even save your life.
- Russ
