What To Look For
A quiet bicycle ride through the streets of your town at night or through the city around dusk offers a refreshing change from riding during the day, as long as you stay visible and safe. Bike lights are imperative for bike riding at dusk or during the night. If you are riding in an urban area that provides effective lighting, a less expensive light set that doesn't project as far ahead works well. For more obscure areas with shadows and long stretches of darkness, a light with a stronger beam increases your ability to see and be seen.
Common Pitfalls
Some lights consume battery power quickly and can leave you stranded in dark areas at inconvenient times. It is best to investigate how long the battery should last for each light and read reviews to find out what other cyclists have discovered through trial and error. Riders should also invest in a rear light and side reflectors. Using only a headlight may help you see better at night but it does not make you visible to motorists behind you.
Where To Buy
Local bicycle shops usually have a selection of bike lights, as do outdoor equipment shops. You can also purchase products online directly from retailers such as Nite Rider and Planet Bike. If you are in a bind and need lights quickly, a large department store like Target often offers lower-end, small lights that you can use for a few weeks while you look for a more durable set.
Cost
A small light set, such as one by Bell Bicycles, that makes you visible, but doesn't project very far into the street, runs between $10 to $20. Nite Rider offers a front light, the MiNewt, that projects far ahead and has three beam settings and a battery life of three to six hours. The MiNewt costs about $200. CygoLite manufactures some of the best and brightest LED lights. Their products are sold on Amazon.com and cost as low as $7 for a red, flashing rear light with five LEDs to as high as $335 for a bright, white front LED light with an output of 600 lumens and a rechargeable battery that lasts about 24 hours on the low setting.
Comparison Shopping
For the night rider or daily commuter who rides in dimly-lit areas, it pays to invest in a powerful lighting system with a longer reach. Companies such as Nite Rider and CygoLite that specialize in lighting systems for bikes are a good place to start. For cyclists who go on short rides in more urban settings, standard light sets, such as those offered by Bell Bicycles, are suitable. Testing out the lights in the dark at the store will give you a better feel for which one works best for you.
Insider Tips
Find out what the lighting laws are for cyclists in your area. You'll want to make sure that your light set meets the minimum requirements. Contacting local cycling clubs and finding out what kinds of light sets they like to use will help you choose a set that fits not only your area, but your riding style. If you plan to ride at night a lot, buy reflective tape or reflective clothing to help increase your visibility.
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