You know that magical time in summer just before the sun dips below the horizon, the golden hour? It’s perfect for being out and about. With soft light painting the sky and a gentle breeze, cycling tours feel like an absolute treat. But as beautiful as that time is, the fading light plays tricks on drivers and riders alike. You might think that with daylight still around, you’re safe, yet visibility can quickly become tricky. And with summer just around the corner, knowing how to stay visible during these moments and making sure other road users see you clearly can keep you safe.
Why is this time so challenging?
Summer’s longer days invite us to pedal further and soak up more of the wonderful outdoors that we have here in the UK. But as the sun lowers, shadows stretch, and glare can dazzle both you and drivers. This shifting light reduces contrast, which simply makes it harder for others to spot cyclists against the backdrop of the road or countryside. If you’re cycling at this time, the changes in brightness can also cause motorists to misjudge your position or speed. You might notice that some drivers (same as you) squint or shield their eyes, which increases the risk of accidents.
What’s some essential visibility equipment for evening rides?
Lights, for a start. They aren’t just for pitch-black nights. During the golden hour, switching on your bike’s front and rear lights can make a huge difference. Pick LED lights that meet UK safety standards – they’re brighter, last longer, and some even flash to grab attention.
Reflective clothing or accessories, like ankle bands or vests, add extra visibility without making you feel like a walking Christmas tree. Think about adding reflective tape to your helmet or bike frame, too. This will catch headlights and streetlights, making you stand out from the background. Before each ride, test your lights and ensure your batteries are fresh – don’t let dim or flickering lights undermine your safety.
How can you choose routes and timing well?
Choose routes with proper street lighting or well-maintained cycle lanes where possible. Busy main roads can feel daunting in fading light, so try quieter backstreets that still get you where you want to go. Apps like Komoot or Strava can help you find these safer paths and even suggest times when traffic is lighter.
If you can, aim to ride before or after peak rush hours to avoid the busiest traffic. When you plan ahead, you reduce the chance of being caught in tricky situations when visibility and driver attention are compromised.
But even if you do everything right, some drivers might not. It’s the end of the day, and tiredness or distractions can slow reactions. Drivers impaired by alcohol or simply not checking mirrors increase the risks cyclists face dramatically. Pay special attention to vehicles at junctions and roundabouts where drivers might fail to give you enough space or overlook you completely. Keep your wits about you by scanning ahead, watching for sudden moves, and signalling clearly when you turn or change lanes.
Staying alert means you can react faster to any careless behaviour. And if the worst does happen, knowing about accident compensation can be a crucial step in securing support to recover from injuries or damage caused by someone else’s negligence.
Is your bicycle well-maintained?
Long summer rides test your bike as much as you, so keeping it in top shape is non-negotiable. Before heading out, check your brakes for responsiveness and make sure your tyres hold pressure. A well-inflated tyre grips better, especially when roads get slippery with dew or rain during cooler evenings.
Clean and lubricate your chain regularly to prevent mechanical issues that could leave you stranded. Double-check that your lights and reflectors are securely attached and clean to ensure maximum brightness. If you’re planning longer tours, a quick professional tune-up before the season kicks off can save you from headaches down the line.