What To Look For
Bicycle safety lights typically mount to the front (white) and rear (red) of bicycles and allow motorists and pedestrians to identify and avoid cyclists riding after dark. Most U.S. state laws require a front headlight and at least a rear safety reflector. Michael Bluejay with online bicycle safety resource Bicycle Safe suggests using a blinking rear light for safety, as reflectors often prove difficult to see. Randy Swart, director of the Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute, suggests using the brightest legal front headlight possible. Bicycle headlights may not produce more power than auto headlight legal limits.
Common Pitfalls
Many cyclists believe tiny blinking or steady headlights provide ample visibility. Motorists and pedestrians often lose sight of such lights in the light pollution experienced in many cities. Light technology leapt forward at the turn of the century, yet many cyclists still use older lights providing little protection and safety. Lights often run on replaceable battery technology. These batteries need to be changed frequently, often long before power completely drains. Older batteries often provide weak lights motorists and pedestrians cannot see. Lights bright enough to see during the day from 50 feet away typically provide ample nighttime power.
Where To Buy
Many local bicycle shops, department stores and online bicycle accessory retailers sell bicycle safety lights for night riding. Local bicycle shops typically carry products of superior quality to those found in department stores. Bicycle shops often stock several different lights designed for a multitude of evening rides. Cyclists desiring bright lights for evening commutes home will likely want far different lights from marathon 24-hour off road cyclists traversing dangerous wooded areas after dark. Inexpensive lights often sell in front and rear sets. Quality lights typically sell separately, though some manufacturers offer quality light sets.
Cost
Inexpensive light sets often sell for under $20. Quality headlights accepting replaceable batteries often sell for $20 to $60 per light. Quality rear flashing lights often sell for $15 to $40 each. Rechargeable headlights incorporating battery packs in light designs typically sell for $50 to $100. Rechargeable headlights offering long lifetimes and separate battery packs often sell from $100 to $500 depending on materials, light output and weight. Manufacturers use more exotic materials in lightweight light constructions. These materials typically raise costs considerably. Many local bicycle shops install lights purchased in store free of charge.
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