Reflective Accessories for Bike Commuting

Thirty or one hundred and fifty metres: how reflective gear makes a difference

According to road safety, a person dressed in dark clothing is only seen at about thirty metres in a car's headlights, compared to around one hundred and fifty metres with reflective equipment. This extra distance gives drivers time to spot a cyclist and adjust their speed, particularly when exiting a parking space or approaching a roundabout. In cities, street lighting and shop windows often drown out bike lights: an item that reflects light from headlights stands out clearly, especially if it's placed at the height of the car lights, meaning on the legs, wheels, and bottom of the bike.

The rest of the outfit

Urban gear also comes in various forms:

• Jackets.
• Trousers.
• Urban Helmets.
• Gloves.
• Textile accessories.
• Socks.

All the gear can be found on the urban page.

Wristbands and ankle straps: dual uses for the bike commute

The wrap-around bracelet, a flexible strip covered in reflective fabric that wraps around the leg in one motion, serves two purposes: it tightens the bottom of the clothing to keep it away from the chain and signals the circular motion of pedalling, instinctively noticed by drivers. Worn on the wrist, it makes the outstretched arm visible when turning. The wider velcro straps provide a larger reflective surface and can be adjusted on boots or high-top shoes. All of them fit into a pocket once you arrive at the office.

Backpacks, wheels, and LEDs: enhancing lights

The backpack hides the back of the jacket: a fluorescent cover with reflective stripes turns it into a visible surface while protecting it from rain. On the bike, wheel reflectors and adhesive strips placed on the rim create a luminous ring from the side, the first indicator for a driver coming out of a side street. LED accessories, clips, armbands, or backpack attachments emit their own light and catch the eye with their flashing, without excluding the required front and rear lights as per road regulations.

Great deals

Good bargains can also be found in great deals, promotions, clearance, sales, and Black Friday. The new arrivals feature the latest collections, and items shipped within 24 hours are prepared and sent out in 24 hours. The year's highlights follow a consistent order: the Black Friday at the end of autumn, the festive season, winter sales, the French Days in spring, followed by summer sales and back to school.

Frequently asked questions

Do reflective stickers withstand rain?

Models designed for bikes use a waterproof and UV-resistant adhesive. When applied to a degreased and dry surface, they withstand weather conditions and soft jet cleaning for several seasons.

Where to stick reflective strips on a helmet?

At the back and on the sides, where the light from headlights reaches when you're viewed from the back or side. Avoid covering the vents and check with the manufacturer that the adhesive won't damage the shell.

Is a fluorescent garment enough to be seen at night?

No: the fluorescent colour is very visible during the day and at dusk, but it doesn't reflect light from headlights. At night, only reflective or luminous elements effectively signal a cyclist.

Are reflectors necessary when you already have good lights?

Yes, because the lights are mainly visible from the front and back, and a battery can die mid-journey. Reflective elements work without power and take over, especially from the side at intersections.

How to make a child visible on their way to school by bike?

Equip their backpack with a fluorescent cover, their ankles with reflective bracelets, and their helmet with stickers. Their small size places them below the usual line of sight of drivers: increasing visible points compensates for this disadvantage.