D. WETWEATHER RIDING
E. NIGHT RIDING
In wet conditions, the effectiveness of your brakes, as well as the brakes
of other vehicles on the road, is significantly reduced, and your tires have
less grip. This makes it more difficult to control your speed and increases
the risk of losing control. To ensure that you can slow down and stop
safely in wet conditions, ride at a slower pace and apply your brakes
earlier and more gradually than you would in normal, dry conditions.
Riding a bicycle at night is much more dangerous than riding during
the day. A bicyclist is very difficult for motorists and pedestrians to see.
Therefore, children should never ride at dawn, at dusk, or at night. Adults
who choose to accept the greatly increased risk of riding at dawn, at
dusk, or at night need to take extra care both riding and choosing
proper equipment which helps reduce that risk.
Bicycle reflectors are specifically designed to reflect car lights and street
lights, increasing your visibility and helping others recognize you as a
moving cyclist.
Furthermore, the mounting brackets of front and rear reflectors often
serve as safety catches for brake straddle cables. These brackets prevent
the straddle cable from getting caught in the tire tread if it jumps out of
its yoke or breaks. This additional safety feature contributes to a safer
riding experience.
Using reflectors alone is not sufficient to ensure safety
when riding at dawn, dusk, at night, or in poor visibility
conditions. It is crucial to have an appropriate bicycle
lighting system in addition to reflectors. Riding
without proper lighting and reflectors in these
conditions is extremely dangerous and can lead to
severe injuries or even death.
WARNING
It is recommended to avoid riding at night if possible. Only ride
at night if it is necessary.
NOTE
It is important to keep the front and rear reflectors, as well as the
reflector brackets, on your bicycle. These components are essential
for the bicycle's safety system.
Removing the reflectors reduces your visibility to other road users,
increasing the risk of being struck by vehicles, which can result in
severe injury or even death. Additionally, the reflector brackets serve
as a protective measure in case of brake straddle cable failure. They
prevent the cable from getting caught in the tire, which could cause
the wheel to stop suddenly and lead to loss of control and a fall.
WARNING
If you choose to ride in conditions of poor visibility, it is strongly
recommended that you comply with all local laws regarding night riding
and take the following precautions:
• Purchase and install head and tail lights powered by batteries or a generator
that meets regulatory requirements and provides adequate visibility.
• Wear light-colored, reflective clothing and accessories, such as a reflective
vest, arm and leg bands, helmet stripes, and flashing lights attached to your
body or bicycle. Any reflective device or light source that moves will help
draw the attention of approaching motorists, pedestrians, and other traffic.
• Ensure that your clothing or anything you carry on the bicycle does not
obstruct a reflector or light.
• Make sure your bicycle is equipped with properly positioned and securely
mounted reflectors.
While riding at dawn, dusk, or at night:
• Ride at a slower pace.
• Avoid dark areas and areas with heavy or fast-moving traffic.
• Steer clear of road hazards.
• If possible, stick to familiar routes.
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