When you’re riding your bicycle, day or night, standing out is a good thing.
Research shows that cyclists drastically overestimate the distance at which they are detectable by motorists. Unless we’re actively doing something to increase our detectability, we may not be seen at all. And that’s an alarming reality. But there are simple steps we can all be taking to stand out. The following guidelines were developed using research conducted by students of Clemson University’s Perceptual Awareness department. The ABCs of Awareness—Always on, Biomotion, and Contrast—are presented here in a good, better, best hierarchy. Using daytime running lights is a good way to be noticed, but a combination of daytime running lights, highlighting your body’s moving parts, and choosing gear that contrasts with the environment is the best option. The more of the ABCs you practice on every ride, the more you’ll stand out.