I'm probably not expressing it very well. But my point is, that if you have all the effective safety equipment, and it's in full working order, you minimise the risk of an accident. You can also possibly reduce the severity of any head injuries with a Helmet. Although, I'm not as sure as I was about that, after reading the information provided in this Thread.cantypeANDSHOUTS wrote:not entirly sure its TOO dangeous to cycle on busy roads.AND NIGHT TONIC YOUR NOT AMERICAN .its full stop not period..if i feel in the least pit in danger from the traffic im perfectly happy to cycle right in the center of my lane and thus slow it all down to my crawl.i have no concious about it cos when im on my motor bike or in my car its the same arseholes who don't indicate at all,drive so inconsiderately makes my blood boil.
cant remember if ive already said it a fact that driver give cyclist more room overtaking if they arnt wearing helmets.
so even though all the latest evidence says helmets dont help a jot your putting yourself in more risk of getting clipped by an overtaking idiot.
as for brakes .of coarse you need brakes but if you aint got um then youll cycle in a differnt manner and wont go as fast or take as many silly chances in the traffic..im not a person to say you must have this and that im more about using your brain and compensating..adapting to circumstance.the only thing i can say you cant be without is lights and hi vis.
if they cant see you it dont matter a rats arse if you got brakes or tyes or bell or helmet.your a goner .
You can never totally avoid the risk of accidents. It's just not possible. All you CAN do, is take whatever sensible steps you can, to minimise the risks.