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Reflective material better than lights for cyclists during dark winter nights

Scott Stanfield

Record Staff

During the dark days of winter, cyclists are encouraged to do what they can to make themselves as visible as possible while riding.

At the minimum, lights attached to the front and back will help motorists see cyclists. Attaching a light to a helmet is another option.

So too is reflective tape and bright clothing.

James Taylor, president of the Comox Valley Cycling Coalition, feels high-visibility, reflective material is more eye-catching and easier to understand than bicycle tail lights.

“This is not a knock on tail lights but just an observation for what can readily be visible when approached by a car,” Taylor said.

To help cyclists better see what’s in front of them, he recommends high intensity light in the front and rear of the bike. He suggests the headlight should be at least 150 lumens.

“I prefer one on my handlebars and one on my helmet. The helmet one tracks the turning of your head, so it can be very helpful for looking for perils on the sides of your path.”

Taylor does not recommend using a bright flashing light on the front of a bike because he finds it distracting as a driver.

The mission of the coalition is to create a safe environment and to encourage cycling as an economic, healthy and environmentally friendly mode of transportation in the Valley.

reporter@comoxvalleyrecord.com