The end of daylight saving means it is time for cyclists to dust off their lights and add a bit of fluorescence to their riding wardrobe. Cycling Advocates' Network (CAN) chair Bevan Woodward said as the days get shorter, cyclists need to get brighter.
"Lights and high-visibility riding gear make you easier to see," said Mr Woodward.
Cycling fatalities have declined over recent years despite bike sales on the increase. Mr Woodward said it could have something to do with cyclists embracing the culture of being seen.
"I have seen drivers sitting at an intersection do a double take when they see me riding with my high-visibility jacket on, said Mr Woodward.
"The other great thing about being well-lit is that drivers have plenty of time to give room to the cyclist when overtaking. A clearance of a metre and a half is recommended by the Road Code," he adds.
He advises people to check their batteries as they may need charging or replacing.
"Be bright, be safe, be seen," is Mr Woodward's key message.
The NZ Road Code says that bikes and cyclists out at night must have:
- a steady or flashing rear-facing red light
- a steady or flashing forward-facing white or orange light
- a rear reflector on the bike
- reflectors on pedals, or reflective clothing.
Daylight saving ends on Sunday 4 April, when clocks go back one hour.
ENDS
For further information or interviews contact:
Bevan Woodward,
Chair, Cycling Advocates' Network
Ph: 09 425 1928 Mob: 021 122 6040
PO Box 6491, Auckland, www.can.org.nz
Photos
Contact local cycling groups to arrange a photo of well-lit local cyclists: http://can.org.nz/local-groups
Facts about cycling
- Cycling is among the ten top leisure activities in New Zealand, and it's increasing in popularity every year.
- At present over 20 percent of New Zealanders enjoy cycling every year - that's about 750,000 cyclists.
- One million bikes have been imported to New Zealand since 2001, about one bike for every four people.
- There are about 1.4 million bikes in New Zealand, about one bike for every household
- The Road Code rules for cyclists is at http://www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/roadcode/cyclist-code/about-equipment/cycle-equipment.html