General information > Tips and Guides > The guides > Ride a bike safely
Choosing the right bike, in good condition and the right size, helps to guarantee your safety and that of other road users. While some equipment is mandatory, such as front and rear lights, others are highly recommended.
In traffic, the driver and passenger of a cycle, if they are under the age of 12, must wear a helmet that complies with the regulations relating to personal protective equipment. This helmet must be attached.
Wearing a certified retro-reflective vest is compulsory for all cyclists, and their eventual passenger, traveling outside built-up areas, at night, or when visibility is insufficient.
For information, be aware that wearing a retro-reflective vest is compulsory outside built-up areas when riding at night. The cycling safety vest comes in different sizes and colors to ensure your cycling safety at night.
Two brakes, front and rear.
The sound should be heard at least 50 meters away.
Before buying your bike, it is advisable to check the presence of all this equipment. Also make sure they are operational before each bike ride.
Position lights (4 and 5): one emitting a yellow or white light at the front and a red light at the back.
reflectors (retro-reflective devices): red at the rear, white or yellow at the front, orange at the sides and on the pedals must be present on the bike and in good working order.
NB: If a bicycle carries a trailer whose width exceeds 1,30 meter, the lighting devices must be added to the latter (reflectors, position lights).
It is important to choose your bicycle headlight according to the use you have, whether you are riding on an unlit road or in town par example.
In addition to the mandatory equipment, it is also recommended to use the following optional equipment to makeforcer your bike safety:
The danger spreader: this will prevent vehicles from overtaking you too closely.
Anti-theft: this deters thieves from taking away your two-wheeler.
Mirrors: they allow you to keep an eye on other road users driving behind you. They facilitate your movement, especially in the absence of cycle paths.
High visibility vest. To circulate at night, or during the day when visibility is insufficient, all drivers and passengers of a bicycle must wear a high visibility vest outside built-up areas. Failure to comply with this obligation is punishable par a fine of up to €.
Doorbell in good condition. Failure to comply with this obligation is punishable par a fine of up to €.
Functional lighting. Failure to comply with these obligations is punishable par a fine of up to €.
Once you've purchased all the safety necessities, you'll be well on your way. Nevertheless, it is necessary to regularly check that your equipment does not show any defects or wear in order to ensure that you have a safe bike. during each outing.
It is important to check the settings and wear of your equipment fairly regularly, especially after the winter period.