ISO 6742-2:2023

Overview - ISO 6742-2:2023 (Retro‑reflective devices for cycles)

ISO 6742-2:2023 is the fourth edition of the ISO standard that specifies photometric and physical requirements for retro‑reflective devices used on cycles, especially bicycles intended for use on public roads and complying with ISO 4210 and ISO 8098. The standard covers reflectors, wide‑angle and conventional types, retro‑reflective tyres, retro‑reflective spokes or spoke cases, and pedal reflectors, and sets out test methods, colourimetry and marking requirements to verify performance and durability.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope and device types: Defines terms and classifications for conventional, wide‑angle and high‑value reflectors, retro‑reflective tyres, spokes/spoke cases and pedal reflectors.
• Photometrical requirements: Divides requirements into Group A and Group B to accommodate differing national regulations; includes tables of minimum luminous intensity coefficients for each device type and test point.
• Colorimetric requirements: Specifies visual inspection and instrumental methods (trichromatic coordinates) consistent with CIE references to verify colour of retro‑reflective surfaces.
• Physical and environmental tests:
  • Temperature resistance, moisture resistance
  • Resistance to fuels and lubricating oils
  • Impact testing (for certain reflector groups)
  • Corrosion considerations (references ISO 9227 salt‑spray tests)
• Photometric test procedures: Details instrumentation arrangement - source of illumination, receiver/observer, observation distance, illuminance at the reflector, orientation and test area - and separate methods for tyres and spoke assemblies.
• Testing order and sample submission: Provides a chronological order of tests and required sample treatments (see Clause 4.2 and Table 2).
• Marking and documentation: Requirements for marking devices to support identification and conformity assessment.
• Annexes and updates: Includes Annex A with an alternative Group B test method using negative pressure; this edition updates terminology (adds “pedal reflector”), angle units (degrees), and other technical clarifications.

Practical applications - who uses this standard

• Bicycle and accessory manufacturers - design and validate reflectors, tyres, spoke cases and pedals to meet legal and market safety requirements.
• Testing and certification laboratories - implement the photometric, colourimetric and physical test methods for product approval and quality control.
• Regulators and procurement officers - reference ISO 6742-2:2023 when specifying minimum visibility and durability requirements for cycles used on public roads.
• Product designers and engineers - use the standard to inform optical design, material selection and mounting methods that ensure compliance and road safety.

Related standards and references

• ISO 4210 (bicycle safety requirements)
• ISO 8098 (children’s bicycles)
• ISO 9227 (salt spray corrosion tests)
• CIE 15 and CIE 1931 (colourimetry)
• UN/ECE Regulation No.150 (retro‑reflective device symbols/terminology)

Keywords: ISO 6742-2:2023, retro‑reflective devices, cycle reflectors, photometric requirements, retro‑reflective tyres, bicycle safety standard.