MARIN Owner's Manual page 19

NIGHT RIDING:
Your Marin bicycle does not come equipped with lights for night rid-
ing. If you are planning to ride at night, you will need to use a light-
ing system. The reflectors that come on each bicycle are not adequate
for night time visibility.
Night riding can be more dangerous than riding during the day. Only
experienced riders should ride when necessary at night. For this rea-
son, children should never ride at night.
When riding in traffic at night, you must be even more on your guard
and assume that motorists probably don't see you. Of course, you are
wearing light-colored, reflective clothing (especially a reflective vest)
and your Marin bicycle is equipped with reflectors (which should
never be removed and which you should keep clean at all times).
IMPORTANCE OF EXTERNAL LIGHTS:
Reflectors by themselves are not enough for night riding. For maxi-
mum visibility cyclists should install an auxiliary headlight and mini-
mally a flashing tail light.
If you are uncertain, contact your local bicycle retailer for advice on
the appropriate gear for night riding.
Other important safety measures to bear in mind when riding at night
include:
• Go slower for safety.
• Use streets with street lights whenever possible.
RIDING IN BAD WEATHER:
When it is wet or raining, remember that your brakes will be less
effective, so it is important to brake sooner and give yourself more
time to stop. Take special care on curves. Watch out for road hazards
with metal or painted surfaces (e.g., grates, manhole covers, train
tracks) which are much more slippery.
Fenders, and a visor on your helmet can improve your cycling expe-
rience in wet weather by keeping rain, water and grit out of your face
and eyes.
A WORD ABOUT CHILDREN:
Marin Mountain Bikes reminds parents that children on bicycles
require special attention and education. The following situations can
sometimes be particularly dangerous for kids:
• Children must wear a helmet at all times when operating a bicycle.
• Riding out of driveways (or just in and around driveways in
general) can be particularly unsafe for children. Teach your
how to ride safely out of the driveway.
• Children will run through stop signs or traffic signals more than
their adult counterparts who usually have experience as motorists.
• Children also have a tendency to turn without warning. Teach your
child to give proper hand signals and to look behind for traffic
before turning.
• Children should not ride at night.
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