RoadSafe North East launched a campaign on Thursday with a message fluorescent colours were not just to identify cycling teams, but for safety on the road.

The message was “ditch the black” and “go fluoro” this winter.

RoadSafe spokesman Robbie Allen said all bike riders, whether riding for fitness or leisure, needed to be visible as winter could change quickly during dark winter months.

“Our message to cyclists is to take responsibility for how they can make themselves safer on the roads,” he said.  

“We are sending a special shout-out to those male cyclists in full black lycra and to their loved ones - do your man a favour and tell him fluoro is the new black.

“And don’t forget to lighten up – front and back.”

RoadSafe member Michelle Armstrong said wearing fluoro and using flashing lights on bikes was a gesture to motorists cyclists were doing their part to help be seen.

She said she hoped the favour would be returned with safe and respectful driving.

“We’re really seeing people starting to do that, the message is really coming through,” she said.

“Especially on 100km/h roads it’s a no-brainer and even on town because there’s so many distractions.”

The campaign was launched in conjunction with YMCA Wangaratta’s take on the famous bike race, the Tour de Wang.

The indoor fitness challenge mirrors the Tour de France course, including time trial, mountain and flat sessions.

YMCA community development officer Jackie Hobbs said the partnership was a perfect fit during the fitness promotion. “For some participants, the tour is a progression to riding on the road, which can be a daunting process for a first timer, so it’s great to offer them tips for safe riding,” she told The Border Mail.

RoadSafe also supports the Amy Gillett Foundation’s push to see a metre matters laws introduced in Victoria – one of the few remaining states in Australia yet to introduce the laws aimed at making bicycle-riding safer.