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Part of Cycling safety

Cycling safety equipment

Before you ride, make sure you have the required bicycling equipment.

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Cycling safety

Required cycling equipment

Based on provincial regulations, here is a list of required bicycling equipment.

Helmets for youths

  • Helmets that meet ANSI, Snell or CSA standards are approved.
  • Cyclists under the age of 18 must wear an approved bicycle helmet.
  • If you have children and pull them in trail-a-bikes or trailers, they must also wear an approved bicycle helmet.
  • Fit the helmet an inch above your eyebrows and make sure it's level.
  • Adjust the straps so that the V is below your ears.
  • Use 2 fingers between your chin and the strap to make sure the strap is not too tight.
  • Riders of power bicycles can choose to wear a bicycle helmet instead of a motorcycle helmet.

Brakes

  • All bicycles must have at least one brake that will lock wheels on dry, level, and clean pavement.
  • Brake with 2 hands to make sure that your equipment is working properly.
  • Always allow extra stopping distance in wetter weather.

Bells

  • If you are passing pedestrians on shared-used pathways, you must sound a warning device like a horn or bell on your bike.

Lamps and reflectors

  • When cycling at night, your bike must have the following:
    • a front headlamp (non-flashing)
    • a red tail lamp (non-flashing)
    • a red rear reflector

Recommended cycling equipment

Along with mandatory safety gear required to keep you and others safe, consider adding a few recommended pieces to stay visible and prepared on roads or pathways.

Helmets for adults

  • All adults are encouraged to wear helmets to protect themselves while cycling.
  • Children will follow the lead of adults wearing helmets.

Clothing

  • Choose brightly coloured or reflective clothing to make yourself more visible while cycling.
  • Dress for the weather with items that will keep you warm and dry.
  • Wear gloves that will protect your hands from dirt and debris.
  • Avoid wearing headphones since you will be less likely to hear traffic and warning signs.

Storage

  • Carry a small backpack or place saddlebags on the side of your bike to keep your hands free.
  • Attach a basket to your handlebars for added storage.
  • Use a rack to hold your water bottle on the base of your bike.

Flags

  • Since bike trailers can be hard to see, place a red flag at rider height to improve your visibility.
  • Use brightly coloured flags to help motorists see you and your cargo, especially when riding on a highway.
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