Which bike lights are best?
A bike light is a simple tool that can allow you to see obstacles clearly in dark conditions while increasing your visibility to vehicles. While these lights can be somewhat pricey, they can also go a long way in keeping you safe and allowing you to keep riding well after the sun sets or before it rises. These lights vary in their placement on your bike and may even be worn on your helmet. In addition, their brightness — measured in lumens — varies.
What to know before you buy bike lights
Bike light styles
The two primary types of bike lights are those that allow you to see where you’re headed and those that alert your presence to others.
- Headlights, as the name implies, point forward on your bike and are designed to illuminate your path. These typically mount on the handlebars and have a high power level, which may consume batteries quickly.
- Safety lights are designed not to light up the road in front of you but to make you and your bike more visible to motorists. These can be attached to your bike in a variety of locations.
- Helmet lights attach to your helmet and offer an alternative to safety lights, blinking in different patterns to alert motorists.
What to look for in quality bike lights
Brightness
Like flashlights, the brightness of bike lights is measured in lumens. Generally speaking, the higher the lumen rating of light, the brighter it will be. Safety lights are not designed to illuminate the area around you; as a result, they typically have lumen ratings of below 100. For riding in dim conditions, lights with 100 to 300 lumens are usually sufficient. The brightest lights reach up to 1,200 lumens, though 500 to 700 lumens is usually enough to light your way at night.
Beam pattern
The beam pattern of a bike light is the shape of the light it projects. A wide beam illuminates the area in front of you as well as to your sides, but it may not be as powerful as a narrow, focused beam. You should also consider what modes you want your light to have. Most lights feature a steady and flashing mode.
Battery
Take note of the type of battery required by your bike light and consider keeping a spare in your bag. Some models may be rechargeable via USB, which can save you some money in the long run.
How much you can expect to spend on bike lights
For around $15 are a variety of safety lights that may attach to your helmet, spokes, handlebars, or frame. Bright headlights for illuminating your path at night can cost $40 or more, but they are generally durable and have an excellent output.
Bike lights FAQ
Can rain damage a bike light?
A. Yes, but many models are water-resistant or waterproof. If you like to ride rain or shine, consider an extra-rugged model made to withstand the elements.
How hard is it to program a bike light?
A. Changing modes is typically as simple as pressing the power button, which cycles through the available modes of a bike. You may also be able to change the color of the light.
What are the best bike lights to buy?
Top bike light
Ascher Ultra Bright USB Rechargeable Bike Light Set
What you need to know: With two lights in one set, this is one of the best value options out there.
What you’ll love: This set includes a front bike light and a taillight, both of which are very bright. There are four brightness modes in case you want them less bright, though. You can recharge these lights via USB, and they don’t require tools to install.
What you should consider: The front light mount can be affected when you ride your bike over bumpy terrain.
Top bike light for the money
Everbeam E200 LED Bicycle Lights Front and Rear Rechargeable
What you need to know: These rechargeable lights attach easily to bike helmets.
What you’ll love: This set of lights is very bright and has three brightness settings. You can use them on hikes as well as on bikes.
What you should consider: The clip can be a little bit loose on helmets.
Worth checking out
What you need to know: These bike lights are very durable.
What you’ll love: The set comes with both a taillight and a headlight, and they’re both easy to install. Their brightness allows you to see up to 40 feet in front of you while you’re riding.
What you should consider: They’re not as bright as some other options, and they require six AAA batteries.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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