It may seem obvious, but cyclists benefit twice from using bike lights in low light/dark conditions. Bike lights not only improve the cyclist’s visibility but also help others see the cyclist. Headlights are an essential piece of equipment, as statistics show that collisions between cars and bicycles are several times higher at night than during the day. What’s more surprising is that these collisions are largely due to a rider’s equipment mismatch, which can be easily prevented.
The bike lights you use should be adapted to the type of cycling you are on.
Cyclists on public roads, especially in built-up and lighted streets in urban areas, only need the standard LED light package, which includes a white front light and a red tail light. When cycling around the city, the main purpose of your light is to enable you to be more visible to motorists.
Therefore, they must emit at least 4 candles, which is legal for cycling on public roads, and have a flash setting. Unlit paths and mountain biking require much brighter lighting. A high quality LED headlight is perfect for the front of your bike, and it’s essential to ensure you also have a powerful rear light. At a higher market level, they usually need to buy bike lights separately.
How to use
Most bike lights come with a mount to attach the light to the bike frame, so they can be simply removed when not in use. Riders tend to mount the front light on the bike’s handlebars and the tail light on or just below the seatpost (stand under the seat). However, it depends on the lighting and settings. According to the law, when cycling on public roads, the headlights must be no more than 150 cm from the ground, and the rear lights must be between 35 and 150 cm from the ground.
For mountain bikers and off-road riders, the rules regarding positioning are relaxed, and the rider has much more freedom to choose where and how to place the light. Maintain your lighting clean at all times, and keep your tail light clear of bags and coats.
When to Use Bike Lights
Cyclists on public roads are required by law to use bicycle lights between dusk and dawn. Bad weather greatly reduces visibility, and in such conditions, it is recommended to use headlights so that drivers can still see you. Conditions like heavy rain, fog, mist, and sleet/sleet fall into this category. It is also advisable to turn them on daily as soon as the light begins to fade.
Summary
As with the placement of your light, the rules regarding when to use them are relaxed when cycling on public roads. However, using your bike lights in all of the above conditions is still recommended.