Originally Posted by Rowan
The premises of what is accepted by many as good cycling practice is legality, predictability and conspicuity (I think Vehicular Cycling principles are based on these).
Motorists do not expect a bike to be using turn indicators. Hand signals yes. Indicators no. That addresses the predictability part.
A hand held out to indicate a left or right turn is far more noticeable than any indicator light on a bike might be. That addresses the conspicuity part.
Bikes are not required to be equipped with turn indicators. That addresses the legality part.
Now, if you have a problem in removing a hand from the bars to indicate a turn, you may need to develop some more riding skills, which in turn develop confidence. Maybe both you and the original poster need to enrol in bike skills and handling courses. Then maybe you can post derogatory comments with some authority.
I agree with Rowan, and more on the legality part ... according to the Manitoba (Canada) Highway Act ...
"Giving of signals generally
125(1) Subject to subsection (2), where a signal is required, a driver, or the operator of a bicycle or power-assisted bicycle, shall give it by means of
(a) his or her hand and arm; or
(b) a "stop" signal lamp or turning signal lamp, as the case requires, of the kind required or authorized under this Act to be carried; or
(c) a mechanical device of a type that has been approved by the traffic board.
Giving of signals where hand signals not visible
125(2) Where a vehicle is constructed or loaded in a manner that makes a signal by hand and arm not visible to both its front and rear, a driver shall give signals as provided in clause (1)(b) or (c).
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hand signals
126(1) The driver of a left-hand drive motor vehicle or the operator of a bicycle, power-assisted bicycle, moped or mobility vehicle giving a hand signal shall do so from the left side of the vehicle and
(a) to signify a left turn, shall extend his or her left arm horizontally from the vehicle;
(b) to signify a right turn, shall extend his or her left arm from the vehicle with the upper arm horizontal and forearm pointing vertically upward; and
(c) to signify a stop or a decrease in speed, shall extend his or her left arm from the vehicle with the upper arm horizontal and forearm pointing vertically downward.
Right turns — bicycles and power-assisted bicycles
126(2) Despite subsection (1), the operator of a bicycle or power-assisted bicycle may signify a right turn by extending his or her right arm horizontally from the right side of the vehicle."
Therefore, if allenbell were cycling in Manitoba, unless the signal lights which he is considering attaching have been approved by the traffic board, they would be illegal. Before using such equipment, it would be a good idea to check your local traffic laws and see what the legalities are.
And I also agree with Rowan that if someone has some difficulties with taking one hand off the bicycle in order to signal, that person should consider taking a bicycle handling course. Your local cycling association will likely offer some in the early spring. Not only is it a good idea to feel comfortable removing one hand for signalling purposes, but it's also useful for things like grabbing your bottle to take a drink, eating an energy bar, wiping bugs out of your eyes, making adjustments to your clothing, stretching, and so on.