Bike rider safety

Why wear a helmet?

Between 2016 and 2020, 507 cyclists were killed or seriously injured in collisions with motor vehicles on WA roads.

That’s why it’s not only smart to wear a helmet, it’s compulsory. It’s also just as important to make sure it’s the right helmet.

A bike helmet should:

• Comply with AS/NZS 2063:2008 – Bicycle Helmets. All approved helmets must be sold with a compliance sticker attached.
• Fit firmly on the head, with the chin strap securely fastened.
• Not move when you push it back and forward on your head (if it does, it will be less effective in protecting the front or back of your head if you fall).
• The padding is intact and the shell has no cracks.

The right bike safety equipment

You can’t ride safely without the right safety equipment, and your bike will be considered illegal for use on the roads and shared paths in WA if your bike does not have the following:

• A red rear reflector on the back.
• A working bell, horn or similar warning device.
• A white front light and red rear light.
• At least one effective brake.
• Yellow pedal reflectors on both sides of each pedal.
• Two yellow reflectors on each wheel.

When riding in the hours of darkness (the hours between sunset on one day and sunrise the following day) or in hazardous weather, be sure your bike equipment meets the below:

• A front light showing an unbroken or a flashing white beam that is clearly visible from 200 metres
• A rear light showing an unbroken or flashing red beam that is clearly visible from 200 metres
• A red reflector that is visible for at least 50m from the rear of the bike when light is projected onto it by a vehicle’s headlight on low beam

Bike maintenance

Keeping your bike well-maintained is all part to keeping safe, so it’s important before you ride to complete an ABC Bike Check or Air, Brakes, Chain Check:

• The tyres are pumped up and have tread for grip.
• The rear brake is working. If it has twin brakes, both should work.
• The chain moves freely without squeaking and has no rust.

For a demonstration on how to complete the ABC Bike Check and the more thorough “M” Bike Check, recommended to complete monthly or as required depending on how frequent you are riding), visit the WestCycle website.

It is also recommended to get a professional bike serviced annually.

Bike safety advice

• Being safe on a bike is about riding responsibly.
• Remain aware of your surroundings.
• Know the rules for sharing roads and footpaths.
• Get the right size bike and ensure the handlebars and seats are in the correct position. That your feet can reach the ground when seated.
• Make sure your equipment is correct and working.
• Wear the right safety gear. You should also try to wear brightly coloured clothes (or reflective at night) so other people can see you clearly.

For more information on bike safety and how to brush up on your bike skills, visit the WestCycle website.