Respro Urban sticker kit

I’m not overly keen on sticker sets and costing close to a tenner, Respro’s Urban range seem extravagant. However, these Scotchlite decals provide welcome additional security on flat surfaces like wide section mudguards, rack-platforms and hard shell panniers. They’re also a very clever way of getting round the perception amongst teenage and younger riders that safety isn’t cool but I’d fight shy of applying them to helmets given there’s no way of knowing which adhesives affect a helmet shell’s integrity.

Good surface preparation is the key to prevent lifting. Clean the affected area with an alcohol wipe or alternatively treat your bike to a good wash. Dry thoroughly and apply to the chosen spot, smoothing down with the palm of your hand to ensure good, even purchase. Once aboard, they don’t budge and I’ve a set still going strong on a utility pannier and a pair of gloves after three years and some very testing winters.

The Scotchlite is particularly effective mounted to the length of a rear mudguard, pannier sides or tagalong increasing safety when emerging from junctions and negotiating roundabouts. The skull and cross bones designs were a real hit with my six year old and with a little imagination you can fashion some very attractive and conspicuous patterns, jazzing up jaded luggage into the bargain.

Fabrics such as cotton duck and hemp make very sound surfaces but shiny, waterproof panniers proved trickier, ours lifting in a matter of weeks when used in wet, muddy conditions. However periodic sponging down and more invasive washing has made negligible impression upon their adhesion or reflective qualities.

Theft and maintenance free, coupled with zero running costs means they represent good value for money in the longer run and if the urban warrior skull and crossbones theme’s a touch brash, there’s several others to choose from.

Verdict

Good value extra visibility for mudguards, panniers and other accessories.