Lights and reflective elements are topics we have passed by several times. In today's article, we will finally stop at them and shine light at them properly. We will tell you how to make your little riders be seen to have safe bike rides.
High-quality lights ensure that other road users do not overlook your little rider. Good visibility is crucial in city traffic, especially in low-visibility and dark conditions. We recommend using flashlights even in daylight as it makes a small cyclist more visible to everyone around.
A powerful front light reliably lights the path ahead when riding in the dark. If you do not see what is in front of you there is a danger of crashing due to unexpected obstacles that might be in the way. What’s more, children love riding with lights as it feels more adventurous.
Most countries (including Czech Republic) have bicycle lighting regulations. Therefore, bicycles not equipped with the required reflectors or lights cannot be used in traffic. For the exact requirements refer to the legal regulations of the country you intend to ride your bicycle in.
The front light should be white or yellow and produce light of enough intensity to light a path in front of the cyclist. We recommend rechargeable lights with LED technology, which offer high performance, low energy consumption, and can be recharged via USB cable. In addition, they are light and easy to attach to the bike.
The red rear light makes you visible to drivers approaching you from the back. It should be seen well even at a distance of several hundred meters. Most rear lights have multiple flashing modes, which improve visibility and reduce power consumption.
Our tip for small cyclists includes the RASCAL x Bookman Flashlight Set, which is suitable for both daily and night rides.
Reflectors are mandatory bicycle equipment in most countries. They should be present in every packaging of a children's bike. If they do not come with your new RASCAL bicycle, require them from your dealer free of charge.
Every bicycle should have orange (or white) reflectors in the spokes of the front and rear wheels, a rear red reflector, and a front white reflector. Orange reflectors are also included on RASCAL pedals. With the full set of reflectors, you will be visible from all sides.
Visibility is worth the investment for sure. After all, it's about your child's safety. In addition to reflectors and lights, equip your little cyclist with accessories that have reflective elements.
RASCAL helmets have reflective straps for the extra safety of small riders. And when they team up with RASCAL x Bookman reflective clips, they're unmistakable. You can attach the clips to any part of clothing, a backpack or a bag.
The following 4 parameters will help you choose a suitable front and rear light:
The front light should have an output of at least 200 lumens for urban use and more than 500 lumens for riding in full dark conditions. The rear light can have a much lower intensity but should offer good visibility from the distance of 100 meters and more.
Before purchasing a bicycle light, make sure it is rain and water-resistant. Water resistance is marked on the 6-level IPX scale. IPX 0 means zero protection against water, on the other hand, the highest protection is marked as IPX 6. IPX 4 and higher provides reliable protection for riding in the rain.
Check how long the light lasts on a single charge. Good quality lights should provide light for several hours of riding and last up to ten hours in flashing mode. Of course, it is important to keep the lights always charged. After every long ride or just once in a while, take them home and along with your powers.
No one wants to spend a long time mounting a light on their bicycle. The light should be easy to mount, specifically on the handlebars and a seat post, or even on the helmet. The advantage of an easy and quick mounting system is that you can quickly remove the light from the bike and take it anywhere with you - whether you need to charge it or take it to a safe place.
Place the front light on the handlebars as close to the stem as possible in a way it points directly ahead of you.
Rear lights normally have a preparation for mounting on the seat post. We recommend placing the rear light in the highest possible position. This way you make sure it does not stay hiden behind the rear tire, so it can be seen from behind.
Reflectors have their fixed places on the bicycle. They differ in colour. The orange (or white) ones are mostly double-sided and can be attached to the spokes of the front and rear wheel. The front white and rear red reflectors have a holder for mounting on the handlebars or seat post.
In most countries, the law imposes the obligation to have a bicycle equipped with a white front reflector, a red rear reflector and orange (white) side reflectors. Failure to comply with these requirements can lead not only to getting a financial fine but even worse, to an accident.
In reduced visibility, your bicycle must have a rear red light and a front white headlight. Children under 18 must wear a helmet when riding a bicycle. For adults, wearing a helmet is optional – but highly recommended.
A safe ride starts with a bicycle that is visible to others in the traffic. Proper lighting is key to good visibility and safety for your little cyclist. Investment in safety equipment and accessories definitely pays off here - not only in terms of visibility but also in terms of legal requirements.
Carefully chosen bicycle lights, reflectors, and reflective accessories or clothing are a must for riding in today's traffic. When purchasing a bicycle light, focus on quality, sufficient power and battery life. But do not forget that even the best light needs to be charged regularly. So, take it home to feed it with electricity now and then.
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