Bike Lights and Weather Protection
Wheel Life column - 25 September, 1999
by Todd Litman and Suzanne Kort - Victoria Transport Policy Institute
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Bike Lights and Weather Protection |
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This first week of autumn is a good time to pay attention to the important details that keep cyclists safe and snug in cool, wet, dark conditions. With a few precautions, cycling in the evening or through a light rain can be delightful. The world condenses to the visible circle illuminated by your headlight, and the cool wind on your cheek makes a pleasant contrast to the internal warmth generated by pedaling. However, a cyclist who ventures out without proper preparation this time of year risks being soaked, or worse. It's easy to get caught out after dark or in rain as days get shorter and the weather becomes less predictable, so always carry lights and wet weather gear. Here are some tips. LIGHTS Lights serve two functions. They let other road users see you, and they let you see the road ahead. When evaluating your lighting system, consider how well it would function under the worst possible conditions you might encounter. Will it be adequate on a dark road, in the rain, or when a driver is tired or distracted by their cell phone? Provincial traffic law requires cyclists riding from 1/2 hour after sunset to 1/2 hour before sunrise to have:
This minimum system can be assembled for about $20, plus batteries. It may suffice for occasional evening rides on urban roads with lots of ambient light, but for cycling on rural roads or trails we recommend double headlights (minimum 5-watt bulbs), a rear tail light, plus a flashing red LED (light-emitting diode) in the rear. This will cost $100-200 including advanced battery and recharging system, a worthwhile investment that will last many years. Make sure that your lighting system is properly mounted. There is nothing worse than a light that jiggles while you ride or bounces off the bike when you need it most. Helmet-mounted lighting systems are particularly helpful for trail riding, since the light beam projects wherever your head faces. In addition, add reflectors all over your bike, and reflective clothes - the more the better. Pedal reflectors and reflective legbands are particularly visible. WEATHER PROTECTION The key to staying snug in wet and cold conditions is to layer. Wear a waterproof cycling jacket on top for wind and rain protection. Add or remove long sleeve shirts, sweaters, vests, gloves, headbands, tights and booties as conditions change. Choose fabrics that provide insulation when wet: fleece, synthetics and wool are good, cotton sweatshirts and ski jackets are bad, and jeans are the worst. Wear rain pants on top of your regular trousers for short rides in wet conditions. Tights are the most comfortable, especially for longer rides. Heavy-weight tights with windproof panels in the front are warm even in freezing conditions. Fenders protect you and your bike from mud and grit, making autumn riding much more pleasant. Clip-on models which offer limited coverage are available for under $20. Bolt-on fenders cost about twice that much, but are worth it if you want to ride year-round. |
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Today's recommended route
explores lovely rural roads on the Saanich Peninsula. It begins at the Mount Royal Bakery
(4649 West Saanich Road), a favorite hangout for cyclists returning from road rides or
testing their skills on Hartland mountain bike trails. Bicycling is, after all, a great
excuse to eat. This time of year, as the weather grows cooler, there is nothing more
enjoyable than ending a ride with a hot drink and warm bagel.
