Light Up Your Life!

We feel that in addition to relectors, lights are a must for night riding and low light conditions. Just because you can see the cars, does not mean that the drivers in those cars can see you. Lights and reflectors insure that they do. You want both a front light and a rear light. A white front light and a red rear reflector is required by the California Vehicle Code.

There are many great lights out there on the market. If you plan on doing a lot of night riding, we recommend spending as much as you can afford on lights. In general, the brighter the light is, the better.

Consider your needs

• Do you need to be concerned with theft when you lock up your bike? You may want a set of lights that can be easily removed and put back on.
• Are you cycling in well lit areas, or do you need to see what's ahead of you as well as be seen?
• LED lights offer incredible battery run times, but you sacrifice the brightness that most rechargeable systems offer.

Other Tips

It is better to have a set of cheap lights then no lights. If you are short on funds, here is a cheap set of lights to start with. Here is low-cost, better second light set.

Set your light on blink mode to better attract the driver's attention and this mode also extends your battery life.

Be sure that your lights are pointed toward traffic, and are not being obscured by your clothing or bags and accessories.

Here are a few online sources for lights to help you get started.

• PricePoint
• Perfomance Bicycle Headlights
• Performance Bicycle Tailights
• NashBar Lights

Also, we recommend supporting your local bicycle shop. Many of them can order exactly what you need. Our Mom and Pop stores need our patronage.

Check out light reviews on MTBR

Bells, Horns, Whistles

Yes, make some noise when you're riding. Let others know where you are if the situation calls for it. Don't be shy to yell, hollar, or whistle loudly if you need to. Or you can check out these sound devices listed below.

Keep in mind that drivers can't always hear little sounds from bells. They may be rockin' out or talking on the cell phone with the windows rolled up -- so be loud or get something loud to wake them up.

Bells are suggested for polite warnings or hellos. Loud horns and yelling are for more urgent warnings. Metal or plastic whistles require you to put them in your mouth or keep them in your mouth for use. This is not very practical if you need to use it in a hurry, nor is it comfortable to keep it glued on your lips.

Music to your ears:

• Delta Air Zound (Super loud air horn)
• Mirrycle (Variety of bells)

Lock It Up!

If you plan on going to the cafe, the store, etc. you'll need to lock up your bike.

Find out how to lock up here.

 

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