Bicycle-mounted laser projects DIY cycle lanes

Cycle lanes are not the panacea portrayed by politicians, the media and those who rarely take to a bike; as most cyclists know to their cost, as often as not they are poorly designed, maintained and policed.

According to the designers of the X-Fire the best way for cyclists to secure a little personal space on the roads is lasers. The idea of using a powerful bike-mounted laser to keep inattentive motorists on their toes will appeal to many cyclists, but the X-Fire light uses two small lasers to project red strips onto the road either side of the bike.

The makers claim it is clear and visible for over one mile – even under headlights and streetlights.

The  laser lights costs about £30 from thexfire.com

In a survey of 800 cyclists by the ETA, the number one gripe about using a bicycle was cars and lorries too little distance when overtaking. While the X-Fire lasers are not powerful enough to singe the bodywork of a vehicle that gets too close, it may serve to remind drivers to allow cyclists more room.

Cycle insurance from the ETA includes new-for-old, third party insurance (in the case of an accident you may need to seek compensation or even deal with a claim by someone else), personal accident cover, race event cover and if you suffer a mechanical breakdown, they will come out and recover you and your bike.