Bike-to-work gear: The ultimate checklist for staying dry and visible this fall

The European Mobility Week is the perfect time to take the plunge and adopt bike commuting every day. But for the experience to remain enjoyable once fall sets in, improvisation is not an option: days get shorter, the weather becomes unpredictable, and urban traffic intensifies.

To help you get back on your bike with complete peace of mind, here is the essential checklist for prepared bike commuters to combine rain protection, certified visibility, and everyday practicality.

Bike-to-Work Checklist: The 3 Pillars of Urban Gear

Step 1: Taming the Rain and Fall Weather

To commute by bike all year round, your outfit must form an impenetrable barrier against the elements while remaining breathable to avoid a “sauna” effect.

• [ ] The breathable, windproof jacket: Ideal for the mid-season. Our reversible REPOP Light jacket and the technical BVOUAC jacket offer the perfect combination of waterproofing (waterproof membranes) and breathability.

• [ ] The zip-up rain poncho: For sudden showers, the Francigena or Romea poncho slips on in 5 seconds, covers your knees, and keeps your arms dry. For a shorter version, you will love our Solace anorak.

• [ ] The rain overtrousers: Often overlooked, the IYUC or BVOUAC rain trousers protect your everyday clothes and shoes from water splashes from the road.

• [ ] The fleece Softshell jacket: For cool September mornings, the technical fleece ORSO jacket provides essential thermal insulation without adding bulk to your silhouette. It is water-repellent to protect you in the event of unexpected light rain.

Step 2: Ensuring Your Safety with Certified Visibility

Being seen by motorists and trucks is the number-one priority in the city, as it helps prevent accidents.

“When standards turn visibility clothing into a constraint, Urban Circus transforms it into an opportunity.”

              URBAN SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
                             │
       ┌─────────────────────┴─────────────────────┐
       ▼                                           ▼
Daytime Visibility                          Nighttime Visibility
Fluorescent Textiles (Type A)               Retroreflective Fabric (Type B)
Stand out under UV light                    Reflect headlight beams
       │                                           │
       └─────────────────────┬─────────────────────┘
                             ▼
                   EN 17353 Certification
                  (REPOP and FLUVIA ranges)

• [ ] An EN 17353-certified jacket: Choose a garment tested in a laboratory. Our collection of EN 17353-certified visibility clothing is visible from 360° and some models have a discreet reversible side for the office during the day.

• [ ] A certified, visible helmet: Protect your head with our range of bike and scooter helmets (glossy, foldable, or illuminated).

Step 3: Organizing Your Bike Bags

Carrying your laptop, a change of clothes, or your groceries requires waterproof, reflective, and versatile bags.

• [ ] The reflective backpack: The UCRR backpack (available in Small, Medium, and Large) features retroreflective patterns and panels, as well as outstanding waterproofing.

• [ ] The convertible rear-rack pannier: To free your back during the journey, the LINK or UCRR Large panniers attach directly to your bike’s rear rack and transform into a stylish backpack as soon as you get off your bike.

• [ ] The convertible reflective handlebar bag belt: To keep your keys, phone, and documents within easy reach without weighing you down.

Quick Checklist: Are You Ready for Mobility Week?

1. My top: EN 17353-certified visible jacket or rain jacket.

2. My bottom: Waterproof rain overtrousers.

3. My belongings: Waterproof and reflective backpack / bike pannier.

4. My head: EN 1078-certified helmet.

5. My bike: Charged front/rear lights + audible warning device.

Ready to Take the Plunge into Bike Commuting?

For Mobility Week, reinvent your daily journeys. Discover all our technical, reflective, and waterproof gear in our online store, Urban Circus.