Yammas

Hi,

Im new to this site and was hoping for some advice from more experienced cyclists. Im visually impaired and registered partially sighted when last tested I was about 6/60, I want to ride on the road building up to being able to commute to college but find my eyes start watering from the wind and bright sunlight is a worry I can see and a cap helps but prefer cloudy weather.

I have done cycle training and can comfortably ride side roads just wondering if any other riders have tips and tricks they use or goggles they can suggest?

Thanks

no1mad 

Welcome to the Forums

I'm legally blind myself (glaucoma for almost 3 decades now). You might want to check out posts by the OP of this thread- https://www.bikeforums.net/adaptive-c...isability.html

Yammas

Thank you will do, can I ask have you made any adaptations? I saw mentioned on another thread that you can get a rear cam for your bike which looked interesting as I was looking into getting a mirror but im not sure how it would hold up against the elements.

no1mad 

I used to use a bar mounted mirror, but then I realized that I was more likely get into a wreck if I used it. Reason being is that while my corrected vision is decent, my visual field is rather limited (had a visual field done a few years back and the tech commented to my wife that I didn't have tunnel vision- I had laser vision), and I couldn't make details out in the mirror with just a glance.

Sadly, my Doc told me last year that he now longer thinks that it is a wise idea for me to continue to ride- especially in traffic. As there is no MUPs around, it has been either to sneak rides in and risk the wrath of my wife should she find out or just give it up.

alaskanb3arcub

I have a mild case of Nystagmus as well as amblyopia. While my vision is functional for day to day use(and my "acuity" isn't too bad), I've been blessed with a decent place to ride. I can't drive(( 1) road 2) gauges 3)left or middle mirror: pick ONE)) which leaves transport between walking range and cab fare to biking. I cannot use a mirror for the same reason I can't drive(amplified 10x) so thera are 2 major adaptions I've made for local riding: 1) avoid the heavy traveled roads, especially going up hill, and 2) Bicygnals (Home*-*Bicygnals NZ).

I use the bicygnals because I cannot do a shoulder check(see driving issues), and find using my left arm to signal while in motion stupid for 2 reasons that do not apply to using the same system in a car: 1) I do not want to fall over(not a problem when you are on 3 or 4 wheels), and 2) that leaves me unable to cover both brakes should immediate stopping become necessary(I haven't found a coaster brake hub that will take a cassette). It's unfortunate NZ/AUS is the only place you can get them any more, but I DO recommend them.

Yammas

Thanks for the suggestion I have a nystagnus as well with a normal field of vision its just distance and photosensitivity that are my main concerns while riding.

Those indicator lights look good in theory but id worry people wouldnt notice because their so narrow? Their other lights look great though.

Is there anything else i can do? unfortunately there are a few main roads id have to ride.

no1mad 

You stated that your eyes water from the wind... do you currently use any kind of eye protection? If not (or even if so), you might look into using ventilated goggles.

Yammas

No I wear glasses so im looking for some that will fit over them the only ones ive seen are too small to go over my frames or glasses which id worry about falling off while riding.

alaskanb3arcub

I agree the rear unit is a tad narrow, but they are better than nothing. I'm afraid I can't offer any other tips without knowing your local area. If you tell us where you are, maybe we can get you better pointers.

Yammas

Oh sorry Im in birmingham in the uk if your familiar with the city.

alaskanb3arcub

I'm nowhere near(practically on the other side of the globe), but maybe someone else can help.