Mandatory bicycle equipment. Do you need a bell? What about the helmet and vest? Regardless of whether the two-wheeler accompanies you daily or occasionally, it should meet strict technical requirements and be equipped with several elements. The police clearly emphasize that a bicycle, like other vehicles – cars, motorcycles, or mopeds, must meet safety requirements. And although many cyclists may approach this issue with ignorance, it is worth emphasizing that what a bicycle should be equipped with is regulated by law.
Do you love recreational bike rides? Or maybe it’s your primary means of transport? Regardless, you need to know these rules! The regulation of the Minister of Infrastructure on the technical conditions of vehicles and the scope of their necessary equipment provides for the necessary equipment for a bicycle. Naturally, a two-wheeler should be operational, but what mandatory equipment should it have?
Mandatory bicycle equipment
at the front – at least one white or selective yellow position light (maybe flashing);
at the rear – at least one red reflex reflector not triangular in shape and at least one red position lamp (maybe flashing);
at least one effective brake;
with a bell or other warning signal with a non-piercing sound.
Every cyclist from dusk to dawn or in the tunnel is obliged to use the lights that are obligatory on the bicycle. Also, he must take particular care and turn on the lights with which the bicycle is equipped (front and rear) in conditions of reduced air transparency (fog, rain, etc.).
When riding during the day with good visibility, the position lights of the bicycle may be dismantled, while the mandatory reflector must be installed permanently.
Additional bicycle equipment
In addition to what is an absolute requirement, it is worth equipping our bike with additional elements that will improve our safety. What is it worth, so to “arm yourself”?
What is the obligatory equipment of a bicycle?
at the front – white reflective light;
on wheels – car yellow reflectors (at least one per wheel);
on pedals – yellow reflective lights;
Continuous ring-shaped reflective stripe on both sides of the tire, or continuous ring-shaped reflective elements on the side surfaces of the wheels.
Are a helmet and a bicycle vest mandatory?
This question always raises the greatest doubts. No, a bicycle helmet is not an element required by law, but it affects the safety of the cyclist. Such protection can significantly reduce the severity of a possible bicycle accident. The situation is similar to the reflective vest. Bright green, orange or pink is optional. There is no doubt, however, that it definitely improves our visibility, and therefore safety, especially if we travel after dark.
Bicycle brakes
It does not matter what kind of brakes – rim, disc, or pedal brakes – our bike is equipped with. The brakes are supposed to be functional, or at least one of them.
Bicycle bell
A bicycle bell is a must-have, it is worth remembering that it should emit a moderately sharp signal. Yes, to warn, not to frighten. It is also worth emphasizing in what circumstances we can use it. Its use is fully justified on bicycle routes where the cyclist has priority. We can “call” on the pedestrians and other cyclists on the bicycle path. Otherwise on the sidewalk. In theory, a cyclist should not ride on it, and if he does, calling pedestrians is not allowed!