The History of the
Amazing Flash Flag/Side Flag

Invented in Sweden in the 1960s, this side flag was called the “Stingpinnen” because drivers gave cyclists using it a wide birth to avoid contact with their vehicles – day and night. The design included two unique features: a crucifix shaped shaft that safety bent out of the way, if anyone fell on it – and – an easy-to-attach off-set clamp.

Bike-Up Canada Inc. introduced it as the “Flash Flag” in 1978 and it became so popular that the Insurance Bureau of Canada tested it on National TV in the 80s. The tests proved that the Flash Flag gets cyclists an extra 46cm (18”) or body width of safe-riding room. The Bureau’s “Play it Safe” booklet confirmed this fact, as did tests by Bicycling magazine and Britain’s Transport & Road Research Laborastory. As a result, sales exploded.

Unfortunately, the publicity attracted the attention of importers and off-shore manufacturers who were more interested in making money than in the safety of cyclists. Soon the market was flooded with cheap non-reflective side flags with dangerous non-bendable shafts. Over time, all side flags became a gimmick to be avoided, as opposed to a safety accessory that worked, and a once respected product, the Flash Flag, almost disappeared from the market.

Through the internet and with help from cyclists around the world who have been using the Flash Flag for many years, it is now regaining its place as the best product ever invented to get cyclists more safe-riding room. So, as those who tested the Flash Flag years ago said, and we repeat, “We recommend you go out (or on the internet) and buy one!”