A few weeks after the IRB, things become clearer for motorcyclists and scooter riders. No reflective vest to wear, no not fluorescent, but … a cuff on each arm.
Updated November 27, 2012: The NSRF suspend the obligation of the compulsory wearing of the Standing Reflective motorcycle and scooter.
Updated January 5, 2012: A point on the legislation of retro reflective elements in motorcycle and scooter.
Updated January 4, 2012: The text appeared and brings many details.
Of the 18 measures of the last IRB, one caused a stir: “motorcycle and tricycle drivers should wear retro reflective equipment.” Many have wanted to see the requirement to wear a fluorescent yellow vest. It is true that, as we indicated then, the wording was vague. A few days later, it was more a question of wearing a device equipped with retro-reflective elements on a few square centimeters, without specifying the exact size. Today, the discourse has changed, and everything will go through a “simple” cuff.
Visibility: Armbands for all and all the time
The information came from RTL and was relayed by our colleagues from Moto-Info: then conjured an armband. Here are some details about it.
The device in question must be retro reflective and visible from the front, back, and from both sides. It will therefore wear an armband with reflective material on the left, but also right! However, this strap need not necessarily be fluorescent, but only Reflective; phobic of “yellow construction” will be relieved. And as some black textiles can be retro-reflective, if a manufacturer decides to release a cuff meets the standards coming in remaining sober daylight, his fortune is assured. We expect of course the publication of the decrees, but according to our information, armlets worn must measure 3 centimeters in width, be retro reflective over their entire surface and surround the arms. To our knowledge, as the jackets are not equipped, it leaves the choice between elastic armbands and RIBs. In all cases, care should be taken not to lose them when removing his jacket.
Some will be skeptical about the usefulness of the device, including its mandatory day when a retro reflective element proves effective at night only. Anyway, when the text will come into force, do not wear the armbands should be punished with 2 points less (68 €). But before you rush to fit you, expect the standard to be clearly established, because there is a safe bet that some unscrupulous will ride the “fear of the fine” to propose in advance armbands sold to vile prices and that may well not protect you from Law Enforcement.
We contacted the manufacturers, which have indicated that they will soon offer these reflective armbands in their catalogs, the time for them to adapt their ranges. And if some had taken the lead with removable armband jackets, this innovation involved only the left arm, which will in any way insufficient in the eyes of the law.
Will there be the same outcry (and helmets) against these armbands as against the first decisions of the IRB? To be continued…