Mandatory bicycle equipment is required by law. Above all, these legislative measures are intended to ensure our safety on the road and that of other road users. Bicycles must be equipped with lights, functioning brakes, and a bell. This seems obvious, but cyclists don't always follow these rules.
How should a bicycle be equipped?
Mandatory bicycle equipment is essential if you want to avoid a fine and also increase your safety. The requirements imposed by law are not overly difficult to meet and don't pose significant costs. Bicycle lights, which are required for bicycles, are relatively inexpensive, a set can be purchased for as little as 30-40 PLN. Reflectors, which are mandatory bicycle equipment, are also widely available and often installed at the factory. A bell can be purchased for a few zlotys, and functional brakes are simply a must. Once we meet these four requirements, we can cycle with a clear conscience.Mandatory bicycle equipment – lighting
The law specifies precisely what kind of bicycle lighting you should have to ensure your safety and visibility on the road. A front bicycle light with a white or yellow light is mandatory. A red rear bicycle light is also required. Each light can operate in either a continuous or flashing mode. The law also specifies the height at which bicycle lighting must be mounted. It cannot be less than 25 centimeters from the ground and no higher than 150 cm. These heights are important because they allow for the most effective use of the bicycle light. It's worth noting that mandatory bicycle lighting must ensure the cyclist's visibility from 150 meters. Bicycles are required to have lights on from dusk to dawn, when riding in tunnels, and on cloudy or rainy days. We generally use lights when visibility is limited. This is convenient because it saves energy in the lights' batteries when the weather is sunny and everything is clearly visible.Mandatory bicycle equipment – reflectors
Reflectors complement bicycle lighting, and their cost is so low that everyone can find something they like. The law specifies that reflectors can be mounted on the sides of tires and on the wheels. Often, this type of mandatory bicycle equipment is factory-installed on bicycles, so when you walk out of the store with a new model, you already meet one of the requirements of the law.The main thing – the bell
When riding on a bike path and pedestrians suddenly appear, we won't shout at them. This often only causes frustration for both parties, so installing a bell is an excellent solution. Mandatory bicycle equipment, such as a bell, must emit a warning signal. Its sound shouldn't be "shrill," so that people hear you coming, not fear it.
Mandatory bicycle equipment – working brakes
The law specifies that bicycles must have at least one functional brake . This mandatory bicycle equipment directly impacts our safety and allows us to effectively respond to unforeseen situations.
Text: Marcin Denisiuk
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