Answer: A Sharrow is a shared road marking that combines a cycle symbol and an arrow. They’re used to alert motorists to the likely presence of cyclists in the lane, and they may encourage cyclists to ride clear of hazards like car doors or ride towards the centre of the lane on the approach to roundabouts, etc.
Answer: There were approximately 14,000 e-bikes sold in New Zealand last year, which was a huge increase on previous years. Pedal-assist e-bikes (with mid-drive motors and torque sensors) are very easy to ride and have a good safety record.
Answer: A hook-turn is a multi-stage right turn that makes it easier and safer to negotiated busy intersections. It involves riding to the left side of the intersection, turning 90 degrees and then proceeding ahead when the lights turn green.
Sometimes hook-turns are recommended with signs or markings, but they can be done at almost any four-way intersection. For more info, go to https://www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/roadcode/cyclist-code/about-cycling/cycling-through-intersections/
Answer: Front and rear bike lights are required between sunset and sunrise (and any other time when visibility is poor). They don’t need to be capable if lighting up a football pitch, but must at least be visible from 200m. It’s best to have them pointing down a bit, so you don’t dazzle oncoming traffic.
You can use two white front lights (one of which may be flashing) and one or more red rear lights (and of which may be flashing). Reflectors on pedals or ankles are very effective too, as the movement attracts attention.
Daylight savings ends on the first Sunday in April, and the days are already getting shorter by a minute or two each day.
If you’d like to find out more about bike lights, go to http://www.gw.govt.nz/bike-lights-test/
Use a Garmin? Sync it directly with Love to Ride! It also works seamlessly with the Love to Ride app if you're auto-logging your daily bike trips. ⌚🔁 🚲
