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Many of you have to cycle around the city at night and I’m sure that on more than one occasion you’ve suffered some mishaps, especially in autumn or winter, when the nights are longer.
If using a good set of lights is the basis for cycling under the stars, inthis guide we will provide you with five useful tips for cycling at night in the city safely and reducing risks.
Legislation on how to ride a bicycle at night in Spain
First of all, let’s see what the regulation says about how to ride a bike at night in Spain.
The DGT in its article “20 rules that every cyclist should know” says:
“Whenever riding at night, in low visibility, in underpasses or through tunnels, cyclists must have their lights on front and behind to see and make themselves visible.”
The fine for violating this rule is up to €200, in addition to putting your life at risk, of course.
What lights should a bicycle carry at night to ride in the city?
To drive at night or in conditions of poor visibility or adverse, the General Traffic Regulations make it clear:
- The front light of the bike has to be a white marker light. We also recommend a white reflector next to the light.
- The rear light must be a red position light and a non-triangular red reflector .
Likewise, as an option (but which we also highly recommend) you can add auto yellow reflectors on the spokes of the wheels and two on each pedal. In the case of Ossby folding electric bikes, they incorporate a red light with a brake sensor as standard that is powered by the ebike’s battery and the folding pedals incorporate yellow reflectors.
Driving without lights could result in a fine of €200
Once the regulations have been reviewed, we move on to the main topic of the article:
5 essential tips for cycling at night
1- Quality lights to see and be seen
Lighting is essential and mandatory when it comes to riding a bike at night. As the standard indicates, install front and rear lights and reflectors on your bike, and make sure that they work correctly and carry the EU seal of quality.
Good lighting will not only help you see better, but it will also make you more visible to drivers and pedestrians.
In order to prevent and correctly warn other drivers or passers-by, we recommend using visible front lights with a range of at least 200 meters.
2- Wear reflective clothing
Proper attire is essential to increase your visibility in the dark of night. Wear clothing and accessories that reflect the light from vehicles, such as approved reflective vests or leg bands.
The more visible you are, the less risk you will take while riding.
3- Reflective bands on the wheels
An extra element to increase your visibility on the road during your night bike journeys is the incorporation of reflective strips on the tires. These bands are highly effective, as they reflect light from the headlights of vehicles approaching from one side. You can find reflective strips specifically designed to attach to your bike’s tires. Also, another solution would be to install the typical orange reflectors on the spokes.
In the case of our Ossby GEO folding ebike, its wheels have built-in reflective strips to increase safety.
4- Helmet with lights
If from Ossby we always recommend wearing a helmet when you use the bike, at night we highly recommend it. If you can get some with integrated lights, so much the better! This will add an added point of light. They come in all shapes and colors. And if you want to be very top, you can choose from folding helmets from Closca or smart helmets with direction lights from the Unit1Gear brand.
5- Batteries and bicycle in optimal condition
Before you go cycling at night, make sure your bike is in perfect condition. Check that the brakes are working properly, that the wheels are properly inflated, and that the chain is lubricated. Regular maintenance ensures a safe journey.
Likewise, sWhenever you have finished your tour, check that the batteries of the lights have an appropriate charge. This review will allow us to be cautious and pedal safely the next time we go out with the bike at night, knowing that the lights will work properly. Otherwise, you will not only be deprived of protection at the worst time, but you will also endanger night-time traffic. Remember that the fact that it flashes before running out can further complicate the correct interaction with other cars and pedestrians.
Alternatively, you can always carry a spare light (even a low-power light) and use it in case the main light breaks down or runs out of battery in the middle of the journey.
6- Bonus track: Alcohol forbidden
Maybe if you’re taking the bike at night, it’s because you’re coming back from partying or afterwork with co-workers. Attention, if you have drunk alcohol DO NOT take the bicycle, it is extremely dangerous and is prohibited by law. The maximum blood alcohol level for drivers in general also affects bicyclists. The officers may subject you to a breathalyzer test. Testing positive can result in a fine of 500 to 1000 euros.
Alcohol consumption negatively affects your ability to make decisions and react quickly, which significantly increases the risk of accidents on the road. To ensure your safety and the safety of others, it is essential to refrain from consuming alcohol if you are going to drive. Opt for safe alternatives, such as water or non-alcoholic beverages, to keep your mind and body alert on the road; or public transport, taxi, Uber, Cabify…
In short, safety is essential when it comes to cycling at night. By following these tips, you’ll reduce risks and increase your safety. With proper lights, reflective clothing and wheels, wearing a helmet with lighting and keeping your bike in good condition you will be able to move at night more calmly. Don’t forget to follow these tips and pedal safely!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are lights mandatory to move around at night with the bike IN SPAIN?
Yes. To drive at night or in poor visibility or adverse conditions, it is mandatory to carry: white front light and red rear light along with a non-triangular red reflector.
Likewise, as an option (but which we also highly recommend) you can add auto yellow reflectors, on the spokes of the wheels and on each pedal.
Is it mandatory to wear a reflective vest to ride a bike at night?
No, it is not mandatory. But the vest and reflective clothing significantly increases your visibility on the road, which reduces the risk of accidents.
Can I take a breathalyzer test if I ride a bike?
Consequently, if the authorities test you and you test positive, you will be sanctioned with a fine ranging from €500 to €100, depending on the rate and recidivism.
