Safe Biking Gear

In the eyes of the law, a bicycle is a vehicle that is subject to the same rules, regulations and law.  The only difference, in fact, between a bicycle and say, an SUV, is about five thousand pounds.  For that reason, if you ride a bicycle,  you have to be very, very sure you’re properly protected.

When you  buy a bicycle, do not leave the shop without buying the necessary biking gear.  Having the proper accessories when you’re on the road will make your ride more enjoyable, more comfortable and above all, a whole lot safer.

First and foremost, never, never ride a bicycle without a helmet.   It’s a simple life-or-death equation and in many places, it’s the fundamental law.  There are poor helmets and good helmets on the market, so visit a cycle shop and ask a professional to help you choose the best helmet for you.  Make sure that the helmet you choose is constructed of superior material that offers both comfort and protection.  You cannot compromise on quality here; you might save a few dollars by settling for a lower-priced helmet, but that helmet will not save you from head injuries if you are knocked or fall  from your bike.  Not properly fitted helmets can also cause neck pain.

Choose the best quality, and try to  buy a helmet with proper vents to ensure heat release during hot weather conditions.  If you still think you’re too cool to wear a helmet, or if you’re afraid a helmet will spoil your hairdo, or if you just don’t believe that you’ll ever fall off of your bike, try visiting a group home or a hospital.   A lot of times, witnessing the direct effects of head injury can prompt stupid riders into becoming safe riders.

In addition, hydration packs are a wise component of safe biking gear.   Many bikes come stocked with water bottle cages, but water bottles can be dangerous to use as they can easily cause riders to lose control, speed and their direct line of sight.  For this reason, most riders avoid taking water along for the ride, and rapidly become dehydrated.  However, it is essential to keep hydrated during long rides and on hot sunny days.   On the other hand, hydration packs give cyclists the benefits of fresh water, without the hassle of a water bottle.   Hydration packs also have spaces to store keys and other necessities like a rain jacket, energy bar and a cell phone.  As far as that water cage goes, it’s best for storing an extra bottle of fresh water in case of an emergency.

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Eyewear is vital when cycling, to protect against bugs and traffic debris, and shield the eyes from bright sunlight.  Your cycle shop will have a selection of goggles, and more casual cyclists can choose for a pair of good quality sunglasses.  The recommended lens colours are orange and yellow, as these colours brighten tracks and roads, increase visibility and create a lightening effect in dark and shady patches.  These lenses are also beneficial when riding on overcast days or in the evening under low light.

If you’re a recreation or  a casual cyclist, you can ride in just about any type of clothing.  However, long distance and extreme cyclists often opt for padded cycling shorts.  The padded seats makes riding more comfortable, and the soft material helps to prevent chafing and rashes.

Half-finger gloves are also great safe biking gear options.  These gloves keep the fingers free while safeguarding the palms with padding.  As a result, cyclists are less likely to develop calluses and rashes, and can continue to ride pain-free for extended periods of time.

Don’t neglect the safety aspects of the bicycle itself.  If you are cycling for health reasons, don’t be scared to invest in a more expensive model.  The extra money you’ll spend is well worth the overall comfort and safety a lightweight bike with good suspension can bring.

As a cyclist, you’re sharing the street with vehicles many, many times bigger and heavier than you.  Accidents can occur at any time and without warning.  Don’t take chances on your safety; buy and use safe biking gear.

Tagged with: biking tips • safety gear

Filed under: Bikes