Legal Requirements
The law requires your bike be outfitted with certain equipment. And yes, you can be cited.
- Lights. The law REQUIRES that your bike be outfitted with a white headlight and a red taillight, when riding between dusk and dawn.
The law REQUIRES that your bike have white headlight and a red taillight, when riding between dusk and dawn.
Without lights you are but a slim shadow gliding through the darkness.
Can you spot all the cyclists in the photo?
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Passive vs. Active Illumination
Did you spot them all?
Some people are confused about the difference between lights and reflectors. After all, they can look somewhat alike. They're not.
Headlights and taillights are active: they project light. The brighter the lights, the farther away they can be seen, and the more time the motorist (or pedestrian) has to react.
Reflectors are passive: they reflect light (bounce it back). If no light hits them, they're well, dark -- they don't do anything.
DO NOT SKIMP ON LIGHTS. Think about what your life is worth.
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- Bell. The law REQUIRES that every bike be outfitted with a bell or similar.
The law REQUIRES that every bike be outfitted with a bell or similar.
Why do you need a bell? To alert pedestrians (and other cyclists) of your approach. Bicycles are almost silent amidst the other street noise.
A gentle "Ding! Ding!" is often enough to announce your presence.
- Helmet. New York State law does not require helmets for riders over 14 years-old. The laws of gravity and physics on the other hand ...
New York State law does not require helmets for riders over 14 years-old. The laws of gravity and physics on the other hand ...
There are two basic styles. Both offer exactly the same level of protection.
- Aerodynamic: More air flow. Good for Spring and Summer
- Polo/skateboard style: Less air flow, better for the cooler months. When it gets really cold, you might want to go for a ski/snowboard helmet.
And yes, there are plenty of stylish options from which to choose.
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Prices start at free (for the DOT special), to around $40 for a basic model, to as much as $100-$200 for a super light road racing helmet.
What do you get for the money? Less weight, more adjustments (a better fit), better ventilation and style points.
Can't stand the idea of mussing your coiffure? For around $600 you can get an "invisible" helmet. It's basically an airbag that you wear around your neck (like a scarf).
One catch: like all helmets, it's single incident use only.
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