High-viz jackets don’t affect how close motorists pass cyclists

By Sam Dansie, Bike Radar

Whether you wear a big notice saying you're a total cycling newbie, look like a Tour de France pro or just put on a straightforward high-viz jacket, the distance at which UK cars will overtake remains roughly the same: 117.5cm.

That's the result of an academic study investigating what difference a cyclist's clothing choice may have on how close motorists pass them when overtaking during peak rush hour.

It means, say the researchers, there is little cyclists can do with their wardrobe to influence motorists' behaviour once they've been seen.
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The only jacket that appeared to make a meaningful difference to the average passing distance was a jacket with the word 'police' written on it.
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"It's those close buzzes that make cycling feel unsafe," said Walker. "If it doesn't feel safe people won't do it."
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