California Vehicle Code (CVC) provides for the minimum equipment required in riding your bicycles. It is your best interest to follow these requirements not only to prevent runs in with the law but more importantly, to protect yourself while riding your bicycles.
Before you can operate your bicycles the law provides that:
1. Your bicycle must be equipped with a brake; and
2. Your bicycle must not have handlebars that require you to elevate your hands above your shoulders.
Also, when riding your bicycle at night, the law states that you must have the following:
1. A lamp emitting white light visible from 300 feet in front of the bike and from the
sides of the bike (may have lamp attached to the rider instead);
2. A red reflector on the rear of the bike visible from 500 feet to the rear when
directly in front of the lawful high beams of a motor vehicle;
3. White or yellow reflector on the pedals of the bike visible from the front and rear at a distance of 200 feet; and
4. White or yellow reflector on each side of the front of the bicycle and white or red reflector on each side of the rear of the bicycle.
You should make sure that your bicycle is equipped with at least the minimum equipment mandated by law for your own safety and convenience. Remember, a safe driver enjoys the drive longer.
