This is the time of year when riding in the evening is very pleasant, but it starts getting darker earlier and earlier. Just now I saw three cyclists riding in the dark without lights. This is very dangerous! Reflectors are not good enough to protect you. Please get lights!
As it happens, when I was thinking about this post, I rode past CMU and saw one or two cyclists stopped by the police for not having lights. So the police are out there, giving out tickets for not having lights. A ticket costs more than an adequate set of lights.
You can get good lights at any bike store. You can easily mount them on your bike or adapt the attachments to mount them on your helmet. They'll be completely visible up there.
jonawebb
2017-09-20 21:06:11
I got into an argument on Facebook with a guy who refuses to get lights, either front or back. Ten others told him the same, but he was adamant.
I don't know what gets in the minds of some people.
stuinmccandless
2017-09-20 22:05:21
I'd appreciate it if people would point them in a downward direction - at least when approaching other cyclists. It would be a nice courtesy.
For the most part, I'd say 300 - 500 lumens will do the trick for most path & road riding. No need for anyone to break the bank.
durishange
2017-09-21 10:44:11
You don't need to spend much at all if you're doing city riding. You're mostly concerned about being seen, not seeing. The streetlights are enough to tell where you're going. Even a couple of small battery-operated lights are fine.
I just checked; under $10 on Amazon. C'mon.
jonawebb
2017-09-21 11:41:05
durishange
2017-09-21 13:33:51
I urge cyclists to get lights that take AA or AAA cells, rather than the 2032-size button cells. The latter grow dim with use, then must be replaced, while AA & AAA lights can employ rechargeable cells. While this requires a greater up-front cost, swapping in a fresh set for the depleted ones to go right back on the charger ultimately saves money.
I have not willingly bought an alkaline cell for anything in four or five years.
Anyone looking to buy a present for someone, I recommend a pack of rechargeables with the charger, as a starter set. Usually about $20.
stuinmccandless
2017-09-21 20:42:14
Bikepgh gave out lights a few years ago. This going to happen this year?
edronline
2017-09-21 21:05:35
You don’t need to spend much at all if you’re doing city riding. You’re mostly concerned about being seen, not seeing. The streetlights are enough to tell where you’re going.
Mostly true, but depending on your riding it does matter. There's enough debris and potholes that you do want good lighting. I aim my light down, maybe about 3-4 bike lengths ahead; it helps. Also, flashing headlights mostly come across as annoying; if you feel you need them, I would suggest something helmet-mounted and more diffuse.
ahlir
2017-09-21 21:08:12
When I commuted to Oakland in the dark at 6am I always felt safer with a blinky front and tail light. I felt it caught the eye of the driver better than a solid light. But I have no scientific evidence. But I figured that something that changed like a blinky was better. I also had another set of lights mounted on my helmet so I was super light man. The headlight on my helmet was a solid white light, but both taillights blinked.
At one point I had a back taillight that projected red laser lines next to the bike on the pavement. And I had reflective stickers all over the bike and wheels.
It was sexy.
edronline
2017-09-21 21:20:20
