Thursday, December 17, 2020

What do you need to have on your bike? Mandatory bicycle equipment

 

If we decide to use a bicycle on public roads, we must take care of the equipment of the two-wheeler. The regulations clearly define what we must have on the bike if we want to ride it on the streets.

 

An interesting fact is that the regulations do not require cyclists to wear a protective helmet while riding. The rider's equipment is not in any way specified by law. However, the Code clearly defines the elements with which a bicycle must be equipped.

 

Every two-wheeler traveling on public roads should be equipped with:

 

at least one effective brake;

sound signal with non-piercing sound;

at the front - at least one white or selective yellow position lamp;

at the rear - at least one red reflex reflector not shaped like a triangle;

a reflective vest;

at least one red position lamp.

If we only ride a bike during the day, we do not need to install additional lighting. The regulations allow driving without parking lights if the cyclist is only moving during the day. In the absence of any of the mandatory equipment, the bicycle driver must take into account a fine from 20 to even 500 zlotys.

 

Safer in a helmet

Although cyclists do not need to wear protective helmets, it is better to equip yourself with one for your safety. Even during a minor bump at low speed, the cyclist is exposed to danger and serious injuries. The driver of the car is protected by the body and airbags, motorcyclists also use helmets and specialist protective clothing on the road. However, the cyclist is not protected by anything. Therefore, it is better to travel with a helmet for your good.