You embark on the daily commute to cycle to work or to get around. And you wonder if your bike is equipped as it should. Here is the video that will answer your questions to ride legally and safely.
To ride a bicycle, minimum equipment is mandatory according to the Highway Code. Doorbell, lighting, yellow vest, helmet, we summarize everything for you. You will be able to check if your bicycle has everything you need before you start your travels. Especially since the premium of 50 € for the repair of a bicycle is extended until the end of 2020.
One of the safety issues is above all to be seen by other road users, especially motorists.
Reflectors
These small retro-reflective elements must be on all bikes, at all times, day and night. They are placed in several places on the bike.
A red reflector on the back (or on the trailer, if you have one).
Orange reflectors visible from the side: they are fitted in the spokes (at least one per wheel). If your bike does not have one, it is possible to buy them.
In front, a white or yellow reflector.
And on the pedals, orange reflectors.
Fires
They are compulsory only for driving at night, or during the day when visibility is poor (tunnel, fog). You need two lights:
A position light at the front, emitting yellow or white light, “non-dazzling”, specifies the Highway Code.
A red rear position light must be visible from the rear when the bicycle is in use. Please note, the legislation provides that flashing lights are reserved for hazard lights or turn signals, therefore the lights must be fixed.
Even when there is a street light, the cyclist must have lights. But the Highway Code is imprecise on the power or models required.
Not having a traffic light is punishable by a fixed fine of 11 €.
The yellow vest
The high visibility vest with reflective tape is not compulsory, except outside built-up areas at night or during the day when visibility is insufficient, again outside built-up areas. In these circumstances, not wearing it may result in a € 35 fine.
The retro-reflective or high-visibility vest works, like the reflectors, by retro-reflection. It can also be orange.
The neon color also allows you to be seen from afar when it is daylight. It is then useful even if it is not obligatory.
A doorbell
The bell is compulsory. And it must be able to be heard at least 50 m away. The Highway Code specifies that “the warning device” is “made up of a bell or a bell”. That’s all. Forget the fog horns or horns that make you goofy. Again, not owning one can cost a flat-rate fine of € 11.
Small reminder, it is forbidden to ride with earphones or headphones. Our ears must be able to hear what is going on around us.
Helmet
Helmets are compulsory only for children under 12, and even if they are only passengers. Adults who accompany a child under the age of twelve on a bicycle, but without a helmet, or who transport one without a helmet either, are liable to a fine of € 135.
The issue of mandatory helmets for adults comes up regularly in the debate. Cycling advocates often find this a false good idea, because, to avoid accidents, we should first and foremost develop dedicated bike paths. Especially since forced to wear a helmet would decrease the number of people ready to get on the bike.
Brakes
Finally, of course, you need brakes on your bike. At the front and the back. It can cost you a 68 € fine if your braking system does not comply. If you bring out your old bike that has not been used for a long time, do not hesitate to have them serviced.