Cycling under the night sky

With the sweltering heat taking a toll on us in the day, it's now a familiar sight of cyclists and runners taking over the streets at night when the chilly wind cools our hot skins and the silence is pure gold to our ears.

However, the risk of cycling is no doubt higher at night. Although Singapore is a safe city when it comes to crime, "low crime doesn't mean no crime" (National Crime Prevention Council did a good job in etching the slogan deeply into our minds). In addition, accidents are prone to happen when the sun goes down with your eyes not accustomed to the dim street lights.

We've always believed in "better be safe than sorry", so we've gathered all the tips you should note before jumping onto the bike and zipping through the dark streets of Singapore. Frankly, there is more stuff that'll make your journey safer other than the reflectors at the back of your bike. We've also got ex-national cyclist (and our unofficial cyclist guru) Kenneth Tan sharing his thoughts.

Attire
Since we have to ride with less light around us, let's turn ourselves to a light source! We don't have to be like human torch to achieve that - all we've to do is wear right so that motor vehicle drivers can notice our presence on the road.

For the kiasu Singaporean, we found one getup that'll make you shine like a star in the dark. Meet Strobe-Lite Safety Gear that believes that "reflectivity is not enough". So, this attire comes with light. Not just a static light, but a blinking one. Now, hopefully, drivers don't take you as a blinking mobile lamp-post.

You might also want to put on a bright-coloured cycling helmet and padded guards for protection. However, note that padded guards might obstruct your movement.

If that's over-the-top for you, opt for bright-coloured spandex attire from Running Lab. There's a 10% off regular-priced items for SAFRA cardmembers.

If you're cycling for leisure and think that specialised cycling attire will stay longer in your wardrobe than on yourself, Kenneth gave a practical advice of adorning any ordinary tee and shorts in light or preferably bright colour (go neon, people!). This is sure to help attract drivers' attention so that they'll keep clear of you.

Bicycle

Other than the reflector on your bicycle, there're other things that can save you.

How about trying neon-coloured tyres? The bright-coloured tyres will be sold at TR Bikes from mid July.

Otherwise, you can try Pedalite, which would give attention to your pedals!

Accesories
Always remember to bring along a fully-charged hand phone with you. You'll never know when a lurker would appear out of the bushes to do nasty things.

Other than that, you might want to check out Safe Turn - a turn indicator for cyclists. This innovative invention will improve your visibility in the dark, especially when you turn or change lanes. All you have to do when you need the attention of drivers is to raise your arm and the bright light attached on the wristband will flash.

Cycling routes
Choose your cycling route wisely. Kenneth recounted a night cycling experience along Mandai - Yio Chu Kang territory where the street lights were extremely dim and stray dogs were roaming and barking relentlessly.

For a safe and enjoyable ride, try these recommended routes!

If you want to enjoy the peaceful side of night at Singapore, Singapore's park connectors will be the perfect fit for you.

If you're looking for an adventurous night ride, take a boat over to Pulau Ubin where adventure is abound.

And if you desire some strenuous cycling with hills, try Mount Faber Park or Kent Ridge Park.

Lastly, Kenneth emphasised that if your race is in the day, train in the day. It's important to match your training atmosphere with the race's.

If all you yearn for on a Sunday morning is to get out under the sun, run along to check out our sports groups!

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