A Guide to Biking Lights

A good lighting setup is critical for all cyclists, especially those who ride after the sun goes down. Our guide to biking lights will help you understand the technology and options available so that you can get the right setup for your riding needs. From lumens to mount styles and everything in between, we’ve got you covered.

Brightness

The majority of bike lights use LEDs for their light source, which offer a great balance between brightness and battery life. These are also shock-resistant so they can withstand the bumps and crashes that are inevitable on a bike ride. They also provide a consistent beam that doesn’t get dimmer as the battery wears down, like old-style filament bulbs did.

Beacon Modes

Some riders prefer to have a constant light so that other road users can easily gauge their speed and position. Others want a flashing option to draw attention and increase visibility. In either case, it’s best to choose a light with multiple modes so that you can change it up as the conditions require.

Daytime Visibility

Almost 80% of bicycle accidents happen during the day, so daylight-visible running lights are crucial for increasing your visibility to drivers and pedestrians. Choose a light that emits a bright, white, and wide flash to make you as visible as possible. It’s also helpful to opt for a flash that varies in intensity and pattern to better attract attention and avoid dazzing other road users.