(Part 2) Reddit mentions: The best bike headlights

Where do you live? Wikipedia has a great rundown of bike laws and rules, especially for California, which is where I live. I'm assuming the same thing exists on Wikipedia for other states.

• Laws
  
  As far as I know though, anywhere you live, you're a vehicle by law. In most places it is illegal for you to ride on the sidewalk, but even if it isn't, it is much safer to ride on the street if you know what you're doing. Look on google maps for a while to check out various routes to your school. I consider myself to be pretty good at planning routes. If you want, you can reply or PM me about where you start and where your school is.
  
  
• Locks
  
  You'll definitely want a good U-lock for your bike, as well as anything from another U-lock or a cable. From the picture, it looks like that cable is a combination or keyhole lock cable. I'm not sure, but I think I've heard that the locks on those can be fairly weak, so getting a regular cable like this one, which is four feet long (there is also a 7 foot long one). The best way to lock up a bike with a U-lock/cable combination is to lock the frame and back wheel with the U-lock to the bike rack, then the cable loops through the lock and front tire
  
  
• Cargo
  
  What kinds of things do you need to take to school? Just books and stuff? If you need to take a laptop like I do (and it's a large laptop), I found that the Topeak racks like this one is fantastic because with this bag, you can fit the laptop in to the bag, and slide the bag on to the rack. I use some bungee cords when moving my laptop in it just in case, but it's very secure and the laptop has worked fine. It even comes with a water proof cover. I've taken my laptop through heavy rain at least a few times now. If you look around online for those enough you can find some good deals. I got the bag for about 80 dollars, when MSRP is around 150.
  
  I just noticed the bag under your seat. I use that space for my light, but what I did with my bag is I strapped it to the side of my bike rack, as you can see in the picture of my bike below.
  
  
• Shifting
  
  Looks like you have regular thumb shifters. Left hand is for the front derailleur (The gears around the pedals), and the right hand is for the rear derailleur. On the left hand, the larger the gear is, the harder it is to pedal. On the right hand, the smaller the gear (or cog) is, the harder it is to pedal. You'll figure it out. Just go to a parking lot somewhere and experiment. You may need to do some adjustments if the bike is old or something.
  
  
• Lights
  
  You will definitely need lights then. I don't care what the laws state, you should have at least one rear and one front light. I have two of each.
  
  You should get a front light that will cast a good amount of light ahead of you. A "too see" light. Most cheap bike lights are "to be seen" lights. They let other cars see you, but you won't be able to see where you are going well. You might as well get a smaller "be seen" light that flashes for day use, just to help drivers see you. The more they see you, the better.
  
  For rear lights, I would even recommend two lights. With a rack, you'll be able to put one light on the end of the rack, and another on your seat post, like my bike. I always have my lights on during the day, just to help with people to see me. It probably isn't too noticeable, but with very bright lights it definitely can be. If you're in a shaded area or under a bridge though, they will help. At night, a flashing light will be the most noticable to other drivers, but it is difficult to judge distance and speed on a single flashing light when the bike cannot be seen, so I have one light on flashing, and my other light steady so drivers can see my movements and judge how far they are from me. Try to angle the lights so they'll be a little higher that parallel with the ground. You don't want your light to be pointing at the ground, or worse, hidden behind your bike rack.
  
  Headlights: Very bright and cheap Chinese copy of a more expensive light by MagicShine. I got this a few weeks ago and it's great for night use. The handlebar mount is a little rickety though. I'm going through the same problem. If you don't want to gamble with cheap parts, there are two other okay lights that will be more secure, but sacrifice brightness. Link and Link
  
  Taillights: This is a review of a bunch of lights with a lot of info. I use This and the tail light from this. I plan on replacing the Schwinn light with a brand new light that came out recently, the Solas 2-watt. It's hard to find right now, but if you search it on google there are several stores selling it from 38 - 45 dollars.
  
  
  
• Various links (Some were used within the text above)
  
  Bicycling Street Smarts
  
  Bicycle Driving
  
  Commuting Tips
  
  Bicycle laws in California
  
  Taillights review
  
  Good luck on your future endeavors and have fun!

Don't worry about the helmet. None are really safer than others, just lighter and stylish.

You don't mention maintenance. You'll want to start cleaning your chain really regularly. Keep it clean and lubricated and it'll last FAR longer for you. You'll probably need a new chain each year too.

You might already know all about bike maintenance, but if not, get a good thick guide like Zinn's guide to bike maintenance, and start reading. Also watch YouTube videos before you try something the first time -- it'll save you tons of pain and money!

The backpack is fine, it'll just make your back really sweaty. Panniers will fix that, not just a rack (that can work though, just get some bungee cords). Panniers and a well designed bag can be great. I have this, and it's very functional, although I hesitate to recommend it as I haven't tried any others for comparison. It clips into a rack by the same manufacturer making it trivial to hold it down.

Topeak Velcro Strap Version Dxp Trunk Bag with Rigid Molded Panels https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004WSLT2O/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_yxC9wb6QSPKM2

Pack a multi tool and probably two spare tubes. Patches are great, but they can't fix everything. I'd also suggest having a plan for a taxi or uber ride. You won't need it, but if you have a flat just before an important meeting, it's good to have a plan in advance.

I'd plan to ride heavy, so light weight upgrades won't help much (losing weight will help way more than any upgrade). The best upgrade you can do is probably puncture resistant tires. $100 will get you a great set that will save you dozens of flats. I love continental gatorskins or continental 4 season tires, but you'll have to do your own research.

You can get great gravel tires that run fine on asphalt in case some light off roading can save you some time.

Finally get lights for night riding. Get a rear red light that has a mode that's on all the time and still flashes brighter. Then people won't lose your position with the strobing, but it'll still grab their attention so you don't get hit by a texting driver. I really like this one, but there are dozens of decent choices.

Cygolite Hotshot 2-Watt USB Rechargeable Taillight with USB Cable https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005DVA57Y/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_GQC9wbAKFWJVD

The front light is critical so you can see at night. I love the light and motion lights. The more expensive versions are really bright for off road riding, but they also give you far more than an hour with the same brightness as cheaper versions. I suggest this one, but as always, it's a pretty personal choice.

Light and Motion Urban 650 Headlight (Silver Moon) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KAPC2FG/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_IIC9wb7D5E8M1


In order of what I'd purchase first:

Brushes, degreaser and lubricant for the chain if you don't have it.

Rear light for safety.

Front light if you will ever ride at night.

Better tires.

Tools to cover more regular maintenance.

Panniers

As far as kit goes i am referring to at least a jersey, bib shorts, socks, and if your roads are not the best i.e. bumpy then some gloves to go with that.

As far as lights go i would say your front light is for seeing and your rear light is for being seen, the lights i have are Front Rear they are more expensive on amazon that at my LBS but they should do the trick, i use them on the lowest setting and they last quite a while 950 lumens is way too much but you can tone them down and get a little extra battery life out of them.

Assuming a total budget of $1500-1750 for everything not just the bike i would budget around $1100 for a bike. I will split up bikes by brand and within the brand i will split them up based on geometry with more comfortable endurance bikes and more areo oriented race bikes.

Cannondale

Relaxed geometry Race Geometry
Pros of the relaxed geometry bike are than it is $100 under the allocated $1100 for the bike, however the components are not the best but that shouldn't matter all that much as long as you take care of the bike. Pros of the Race Geo bike are that it will be slightly faster due to you having a more areo position on the bike and the components will wear out slightly slower. My pick would be the race geometry bike but considering i have not ridden either of them it is hard for me to be 100% confident in recommending them, however cannondale is a reputable brand with alot of history in making quality bikes that last a long time as long as you take relatively good care of them.

Specialized

Race Geo 1 Race Geo 2

Pros of race geo 1 are that it is light for a alloy bike and from what i can tell in my limited time riding the new allez decently stiff and has good components. Cons are that it is expensive at $1200 leaving only $300-550 for kit and other necessities. Pros of Race Geo 2 are that it has the same components as race geo 1 but last years frame and it is $50 cheaper, i own the previous years model from this bike and that bike has been great the components have held up (except for the chain which needs to be replaced around 1-2 times a year anyway depending on how much you ride) and considering how strong it is especially considering it is relatively entry level.

Relaxed Geo Pros relaxed geometry if you're into that sort of thing wide tire clearance, can easily handle offroad use and disc brakes, cons components are not the best, not going to be as fast for racing and may suffer in fast paced group rides.

Trek

Race Geo
Looks like a good bike i have a friend with a lower level level version, same frame and fork, and it seems to be a pretty good bike so far, cons are that its expensive and doesn't come with pedals but that shouldn't be a problem because you are going to go clip less.

Overall if possible try to look at a few of these bikes and tell me what you think, do you favor race or relaxed geometry and if i was correct ish on your price point. i have a sneaking suspicion that you meant 1500-1750 for just the bike and if that's the case just tell me and ill recommend some bikes based on that as well as gear.

Night riding implies using lights IMO. All the trails I ride are in heavily wooded areas where it is pitch black dark at night. I originally paid around $100 for a helmet-mounted Magicshine light. This kind of light almost makes the area you shine it on look like its daylight. Oncoming riders (not too common at night) will be blinded as if they glanced at the Sun.


Magicshine was a Chinese knock-off of some other major brand charging hundreds of dollars like most lights for sale in LBS's. Since buying my 1st light, you can now buy essentially a Chinese knock-off of the Magicshine at half the price.

Cree bike light for $45. They are twice the brightness of a Magicshine (MJ-808) but have a lot of the light near the center. I bought a wide angle lens for it which spreads the brightest part of the light over a 30 degree angle instead of 10-15. This works well as handlebar-mounted.

Two lights is pretty much required if you want to see the trail well and have proper perception in order to control your bike well at night. I have done numerous night rides with only a helmet-mounted light, but I found that it was hard to track the front wheel and keep looking ahead at the same time. Riding skinnies at night with only one light proved to be a bad idea!


Night riding is interesting and I think it can actually improve your riding. You can focus better on just the trail and everything else is hidden by the darkness of night. It's like tunnel vision and you can really flow when you get in the zone.

Disc racks can work on non-disc brake wheels. I use a Blackburn EX-1 Disc Rack on my bike. My bike does not have the eyelets by the wheel hub for pannier racks, but strangely it does have the eyelets on the seat stay for them. I found this rack works very well on my bike.

For USB rechargeable lights, I use a Cygolite Metro 500 and a Cygolite Hotshot. Both lights are easily removable so you can take them with you when you leave your bike locked up. There are cheaper versions of the Cygolite Metro which are also quite good (300, 360, 400), but not quite as bright. The Metro 300 is probably enough light for most people, and is what I used first. The only reason I switched is because my girlfriend's bike needed a better headlight, so I used that as an excuse to upgrade mine and give her my old one. Currently the 360 is cheaper than the 300 on Amazon, and is brighter. So there's no reason to get the 300 right now.

For multi tool, I like the Topeak Hexus II. Someone else on Reddit recommended it to me months ago and I'm quite satisfied.

For a full time commuter, I recommend some puncture resistant tires. I use Continental Gatorskins with Mr Tuffy liners inside them. Haven't had a single flat in several months now. Having a flat on your way to work would really suck, especially in crappy winter weather.

I use Ortlieb Front Rollers on my rear rack, as I was worried the Back Rollers would be large enough to cause heel strike. The Front Rollers are very nice. I love how easy they are to put on and take off, plus they're quite rugged and keep everything dry. The Front Rollers are just barely large enough for a 15" laptop, though I can't roll the top down well with it in there.

I made a website to help people find bike lights, it's called The Bike Light Database. I'm not sure which lights are available in Denmark specifically, but you might find the beamshot comparison page useful for deciding which lights would provide ample light for your use. If you can find one over there, the Light and Motion Urban 650 is $130 and would be plenty of light for off-road riding, and has good side-visibility for riding on roads. If you can buy from Amazon.co.uk, it's available from there. The Cygolite Metro series might be good for you too. They're a good shape to hold in your hand as a flashlight, and are good for commuting. The optics aren't as good as the L&M lights, but they're a good bit cheaper - the Metro 500 runs $80 in the US, although from looking online, it seems they're actually quite expensive in Europe.

I have this one: https://www.amazon.com/TANSOREN-Lumens-Bright-Waterproof-Headlight/dp/B00Y441QT2/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=tansoren&qid=1572549539&sr=8-3


I am super happy with it. Lots of battery life and it is INSANELY bright. With that said, you need to be aware of that brightness when you're coming up on other people going the opposite direction. You will absolutely melt their retinas if you don't point the light down as you pass. Its super easy to just point it down with my thumb and then raise it back up once I have passed someone. It does have the external battery so that may effect your decision. But I love mine.

Salutare,

Sunt multumit de roti, e un profil foarte mic al jantei - super ok pentru viteza dar simti fiecare groapa/denivelare. Anvelopele sunt continental ultra sport II, foarte rapide la 100PSI dar nu ofera ceea ce as numi comfort. E o preferinta personala strict pentru oras, la ture lungi ar fi mai greu de suportat. Raman zilnic atent la linii de tramvai si crapaturi in strada, cu setupul asta te fura foarte usor.

Angrenajul era ceva de mtb de la m-wave, dar l-am schimbat recent cu asa ceva - are bratele mai scurte si nu mai ating cu pedala in curba. Sunt pe 46x18 si e ok, ma duce la 28-32 km/h. Dat fiind ca Bucurestiul e destul de plat poti merge si pe ceva mai greu, eu prefer sa nu transpir prea mult. Nu am aparatoare, am imprimeuri de lant pe toti pantalonii. :)

In poza erau pedalele vechi, uite o poza mai noua si link la pedalele noi. Mi-am schimbat si ghidon/pipa intre timp cu un Cinelli Lola / Ant.

Antifurtul e ok (kryptonite keeper mini) pentru ca e cadrul subtire, altfel ar fi chin cu varianta mini.

Legat de aparatori, cand e ud folosesc fix ceva de genul aleia la care ai dat link. E o solutie mediocra dar mai bine decat nimic si nu as vrea sa pun ceva mare de tabla/plastic peste roti.

Vopseaua e neatinsa so far.

Lumina fata: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Apace-Illuma-ZT3000-Rechargeable-Headlight/dp/B0721QSJF4

Lumina spate: https://www.amazon.co.uk/GuardG3X-Rechargeable-Bike-Light-Apace/dp/B01LZL4O72 (o am pe un mtb momentan, in poza de mai sus e ceva mai slab).

A si la frane recomand Shimano 105 BR-5800, sunt amazing pentru ceva care nu e disc. Nu sunt tocmai low-end dar ma saturasem sa strang cu disperare si durere in maini pentru niste clesti prosti.

How long do you plan to own this bike? Schwinn's are junk. The only time I got a schwinn was when I knew I would ditch it in a year. I'd suggest investing a little more in your bike if you plan to be riding it regularly and for a longer period of time. For just practical reasons, taking public transit a lot means you may be carrying your bike up and down stairs, which I would never have wanted to do with the schwinn, cause it was kinda heavy for a bike.

If you can plan your route well, a single speed should be fine. It might take a little while for you to condition your legs well, but 4 miles 1 way is not much. I can do that easily on my single speed, which I paid $325 new cause I had to have pink :) .

Get a kryptonite lock that is as small as you think you can handle locking up your bike with. Lights are a matter of preference. You'll want something that you can easily remove and take with you. I personally like a really bright light in front so i purchased the Serfas Thunderbolt.

Hey!! Here is something that might really clean up your setup!!

It's a gopro mount for the Cygolite Metro series! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07MWSFLTR/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I was on the verge of designing and 3D printing one till i found that on amazon! It mounts to the gopro mount underneath my garmin and is amazing!

FYI I am in no way affiliated, just sharing my find that made me super happy!

Cygolite is my go-to brand for quality lights that are well designed for biking (including a decent beam shape) at a really good price.

The one you linked is absurdly bright: 1200 lumens. I doubt your 6-year-old one is that bright. But if you decide you need that, Cygolite does have a "metro pro 1100" (https://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Metro-Rechargeable-Light-Black/dp/B01N4ANAPU) for $69 on Amazon. But I think you'd be fine with a $33 450 lumen model. Or split the difference and go with 600 lm?

The other thing to consider is getting a dynamo hub setup. You might spend $200 to $250 on a new wheel, plus $100 or so on a light if you want a really nice one, but you'll end up with superior lighting, as those lights have really excellent beam patterns, and you'll never have to worry about charging or about running out halfway home.

I use the CatEye Volt 300 USB Rechargeable Headlight and it has been working great for about five months. I work 1-9pm so my night rides are dark. It does a great job of making myself visible as well as lighting the road for me. There are brighter lights out there but this one has a pretty good pricepoint IMO. Not sure if it was said elsewhere but don't blind people with the strobe, solid works just as well.

How about an out front mount and gopro adapter? I did something similar with my Cyglolite and Wahoo Elemnt Bolt. It's great!!!

corki Headlight Helmet Mount Strap for Cygolite ，Headlight Mount for Cygolite，Adapter for Cygolite Metro Streak Expilion Series. (Cygolite Gopro Mount) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MWSFLTR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_CvWsDbF2RSR2B

Dymoece Out Front Bike Computer Combo Mount for Garmin Edge Gopro (200 500 510 520 800 810 820 1000 1030 Touring) (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JG7CBX5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_2wWsDbE8AHT8F

Edit: thanks for the gold...my first 🤩😍🤩😍🤩😍🤩

I use this http://www.dx.com/p/l12-cree-xp-e-q5-200lm-3-mode-white-zooming-bike-light-black-3-x-aaa-166290#.VC0Ko_mSyo0
which is excellent for urban areas, and cheap, great build quality (rotating mount, alloy casing)



It uses a (older?) cree XP led, but if I'll choose again I would go to Cree XM-L T6 led now, like this cool looking double:
http://www.dx.com/p/singfire-sf-607-2-x-cree-xm-l-t6-2000lm-cool-white-4-mode-bicycle-flashlight-black-4-x-18650-230382#.VC0LwfmSyo0 (comes with 4 rechargeable 18650 batteries)

There are monstrous lights like this:
http://www.dx.com/p/singfire-sf-530-3-x-cree-xm-l-t6-3000lm-4-mode-white-bicycle-lamp-silver-black-4-x-18650-175456#.VC0N9PmSyo0 having this beam http://svc.dxcdn.com/upload/reviewpicture/201311/699b92e4-1fda-4774-9973-2e3c8e72f84b.jpg

or this
http://www.dx.com/p/cree-xm-l-t6-4800lm-3-mode-white-bicycle-headlamp-black-grey-6-x-18650-199920#.VC0Pe_mSyo0
.


You can get those from amazon too, just Search Cree XM-L T6 in amazon, for example: http://www.amazon.com/SecurityIng%C2%AE-Headlight-Headlamp-Bicycle-Packaging/dp/B009QX8B2Q/ref=sr_1_1?s=cycling&ie=UTF8&qid=1412240023&sr=1-1&keywords=cree+xm-l+t6


here's some comparison: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDX5JSpZFAc

Might be a bit late but here's what I have.

• Front light to see is a Cateye Volt 200. TBH I can barely see with it, but I ride only in the city and the streets are lit anyways.
  
  
• Front light to be seen is some random flashing light (similar to this one). Doesn't light up the road at all, it's more so that other road users see me
  
  
• Rear light is some cheapo one off amazon. It's cool because it cycles flashing red, blue, purple which I feel really catches your eye. I don't know if it's illegal because someone might confuse it with the police.
  
  I feel like I should get button lights to put on things like my bag or helmet, but also don't think it's really that necessary in the city where it's lit up anyways.
  
  I've been wanting to upgrade my Brompton to have a Dynamo in the front wheel and upgrade the light (as can be seen in this reddit post) but haven't had the money to yet. When I asked my local Brompton mechanics they said I'd have to wait for the autumn sale to end before they can give me a price (wtf?)
  
  Definitely check out GCN's video on lights! https://youtu.be/BjXDSASTJn0
  
  Oh I also want to get a helmet that has indicators inside of them like this or this. And something to laser print a bike lane behind me like this one with integrated indicators (colleague has one and it's pretty neat)

About $325, for the lights and the niterider helmet strap. Could probably have spent a fraction of that and had enough light, but decided to throw down in order to get better battery life and customer support.

The DiNotte in particular I think is worth it, for their repair and trade-in program. In a few years when the battery is hosed I'm confident that they'll have a replacement available for significantly less than I'd spend on a new light, and when the light is wrecked or outdated, they'll take it as trade-in on whatever new hotness they have at the time.

http://store.dinottelighting.com/2018-dinotte-xml-3-headlight-2100-lumens-p174.aspx

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071FKT3NT/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Correct. Definitely invest in proper front and rear lights. After almost being t-boned in a poorly lit neighborhood (I have excellent front and rear lights), I purchased a pair of these in green. They are awesome, bright, and you can see me from the side very well. Just make sure you don't get blue or other colors that might be illegal to for general use.

Spend at least a bit more money. This Bicycling magazine review points you to the Sigma Lightster as a decent $35 headlight, but you can get it for $32 from Amazon.

I'd still recommend a more powerful headlight if you need it, but that's probably better than what you have currently.

There are two types of lights, ones to see by and ones to be seen by. Any that is good enough to see by will be too bright to be seen by (dazzle etc). You want one that can do both. Something like the Cateye Volt 1600 can be ran full brightness when on the MTB trails and can be turned down to commute by.

If you just want one for commuting the Volt 300 is fine (and cheaper!)

Price range, brightness needs? Are you commuting on well lit city streets, so you only need visibility? Or are you commuting on rural roads where you need illumination to see?

For actual illumination, I've been a fan of the original MagicShine for a while. Bright as the dickins, and cheap (compared to other 900+ lumen lights).

I've been happy with this battery pack. It's cheap, but it does the job for me.

I use it with a light like this and it works well for my mostly on-road riding. If you do a lot of very bumpy off road riding you might need a better mount.

It IS a matter of personal comfort for doing those hills. If the road is not too busy, consider zig zagging down the hill. On the entire commute, I would just say to give it a try for the day and see how it is for the entire 8 miles.

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The DLX might be the wiser choice for you. It's got the higher... lower portion of the deck for better ground clearance.

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As far as a headlight goes, this one's my favorite rechargeable. I've used this brand for 2 years and it holds its charge nicely - it doesn't discharge too much when not in use.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009QX8B2Q/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Just ordered my second one of these. Excellent light, and the brightest I currently own. Much brighter than even my Cygolite Metro. AND it's cheap.

I'm using this as my headlight. It's very bright, great for night rides around town. Cygolite sells models that are much brighter also. For my rear light I'm just using some cheap triple red led flashing light.

I use a HORNIT. It has 4-5 different sounds. The one that I prefer is like a loud robot chirp.

Its good in conjunction with shouting. Its not the best on the avenues as the noise gets lost, but with the the closer confines of the cross streets its pretty effective.

That being said I still need to shout as a last resort.

nite rider 950 / 1100. Worth every penny, long lasting and easily charged via micro usb. Their customer support is also amazing.
https://www.amazon.com/NiteRider-Lumina-950-Boost-Headlight/dp/B01HEF5A2G/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1522161249&sr=8-7&keywords=Niterider+Lights

https://www.amazon.com/NiteRider-Lumina-Boost-Headlight-BLACK/dp/B071LRBF78/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1522161249&sr=8-2&keywords=Niterider+Lights

I've used one of these. It works pretty good and is quite bright for the price.

I think it's time to modernize to a 400 lumen plus light. The strobe mode greatly increases your visibility to others. Where I am, I see some cyclists using two or three of these headlights during the day strobing.

Just upgraded my 600 lumens to 2000 lumens version that can be plugged into my Bionx battery.

A head mounted camera is a great visual deterrent. Research the battery life however. Some may be limited to 20 to 30 minutes before needing a recharge.

I think Cycliq's products are the only dashcam solution at this time. Check reviews.

• https://www.amazon.com/Fly12-1080p-Camera-Lumen-light/dp/B01FRTK1XE
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Fly6-Rear-Camera-Lumen-light/dp/B01JIEL94Y
  
  Another thought.... with the summer heat and earlier sunsets... I'm now adding affordable spoke lights to my wheels for the cool sunset twilight rides. Running on rechargeable AAA's, these lights increase my visiblility at night...
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Waterproof-Bicycle-Different-Patterns-Warning/dp/B01N40PGWT
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/AIKELIDA-Bike-Wheel-Lights-Decorations/dp/B01N1I3ULT/
  
  
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bebLN-Z6Smk

I recently was asking myself this same question, and consensus seemed to be the Air Zound is the loudest horn.

Delta Airzound Bike Horn , colors may vary https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000ACAMJC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_l5xYxbDSGJVRP

But I don't like the idea of needing an air reservoir for my horn. I have been using this for a while:

Hornit dB140 Cycle Horn with Remote Trigger https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006TDEV20/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_l7xYxb01YQYW2

It's very loud but ruined by the sound it makes: it's a chirping noise and people look up in the trees on shared paths instead of looking back or moving over. I ordered and just yesterday received this:

ORP SmartHorn and Bike Light - BLUE https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00L3NK1O8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_K8xYxbH94B542

A light/horn combo, with two different sounds. It's loud, and if you get it off the Orp website they include the remote trigger for free. Haven't had a chance to try it out yet but my initial impression is very good.

> I really like the lights that seem to pulse/twitch, but I think they're expensive.

My light (Urban Light and Motion 350) is only $50 and has the pulse function. I think it's a great value for a reliable, rechargeable light. The biggest con, in my experience is the strap will fail after a few years use and the battery is not removable/replaceable. All in all, I've been riding with it for 2 years and it's still running great.

The strap on mine recently broke, but I bought the adapter to put it on a GoPro mount and have it back in action.

These lights are pretty good and affordable, and both brands come with brighter versions.

https://www.amazon.com/Light-Motion-Urban-Bike-Headlights/dp/B0127A0ADM

https://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Durable-Waterproof-Rechargeable-Headlight/dp/B00LXTOT6I/ref=sr_1_9?crid=184D198JW6DGO&keywords=cygolite+metro&qid=1568865014&s=sporting-goods&sprefix=cygo%2Csporting%2C189&sr=1-9

It's incredible! It makes that boring old trial like a brand new one. You still know where the drops and climbs are at, but they look completely different. Plus night riding lets you ride longer in the winter and at cooler times in the summer. I have two lights, one on my bars and one on my helmet. I think together they put out like 2300 lumens. At least they say they do. I started with a little helmet light that only put out 110. It was pretty dim, but I made it through a winter with just that. I would recommend something with at least 300 starting out, bet get one as bright as you can afford. Magicshine is the brand I use now, and can't be happier with them. Buy the helmet mount too. Just having a light on your bar kinda sucks. Whenever there is a small S-curve in the trail you lose sight of what's in front of you when you turn your bars.

In your price range you're looking at a very good gently used road bike purchased off Craigslist. Aluminum frame, carbon fork, Shimano Tiagra or Sora components, maybe 5 years old.

Regarding butt pain: I'd be worried if it started after a few miles. It's better for saddle discomfort to fade away rather than in.

Regarding lights: I have this front light and I find it reasonable for getting around town, although I always bike much slower in the dark when in unfamiliar areas. Bike light database has reviews of pretty much everything on the market if you care. I got by for a couple of years with a $20 light and the difference with my current $50 light is, literally, night and day.

These magicshine lights are awesome for the money. Plenty bright enough for any night time trail riding.
http://www.amazon.com/MagicShine-1000-Lumen-Mode-Light/dp/B0053HXFGQ/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1341530043&sr=8-3&keywords=magicshine

They are rated at 1000 lumen but realistically probably 850. They come with a bar mount, but you can get a helmet mount too. Also, there is a wide angle lens available. I ride with one on my bars right now and it is bright enough but I could see putting one on your helmet and then a second on the bars with the wide angle lens. You can get two for much cheaper than a single nite rider will cost.

Seems like most ride with a nite rider.

NiteRider Lumina 950 Boost Headlight https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HEF5A2G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_CZnWzb5R7MV47


USB rechargeable & bright enough to trigger traffic lights.

[This, please.] (http://www.amazon.com/SODIAL-TM-Waterproof-Silicone-Bicycle/dp/B009VWF2EC/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2W82EFVQMMCZM&coliid=IVKKP4CKYZU5N)

I love cheap.

Thank you for the contest.

I have a set of wheel lights which are designed around a similar ethos. They're called spokelits, small LED lights that you fit to your spokes for extra visibility. They're nowhere near bright enough to use as stand alone lights but they look awesome and cost a tenner

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Nite-Ize-Spokelit-Bike-Light/dp/B001TKJ3W6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1347301415&sr=8-1

ICE COLD WATER FOR ONLY ONE DOLLAR

Shucks! Sorry it didn't work out this time, but I know when the time's right, you're gonna have a puppy adoption happy ending!

(~$2 bike light)

Damn, glad to hear you're on the mend. I hope the person at least stopped/was held accountable. I'm pretty close to getting a bike camera that that kind of scenario, I've met and read about way too people involved in hit-and-runs in this area.

I like this one because it is totally my cat and this one

I would love this OR this


I think my cat could be the basis for a meme... but I'm not very creative. And I have a funnier version, but can't find it.




Grumpy Cat does not approve.

2 of these and youre set. Check out https://youtu.be/oHAE5EkkpFs

NiteRider Lumina Micro 750 USB Rechargeable MTB Road Commuter LED Bike Light Lumens Water Resistant Bicycle Headlight, LED Front Light Easy to Install Cycling Safety https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071FKT3NT/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_QItQDbRXBRP8Y

Whats I use:

Headlight, very powerful and better than others I've used

Taillight, multiple flash settings, very visible

Reflective Tape, I cut out some 1 cm wide strips and placed it on my frame and spokes, add visual safety

i use a light similar to this and it really lights up the road at night. i'm definitely more visible to motorists as they typically slow down as they approach head on. i can see all the bumps and potholes in the road with that light. highly recommended and you can't beat the price for the power. there are many knockoffs of the magicshine light on amazon, just gotta find the right one for you.

The cygolite metro 500 is on sale right now. Great light, quality, warranty, company does a lot of assembly in the USA.

It's $300 on Amazon. I'll probably pick one up now after seeing how great it is in this video.

These worked really well so I thought to share:

https://www.amazon.com/Serfas-Thunderbolt-USB-Headlight-Black/dp/B009NZVQ7O/ref=pd_bxgy_468_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B009NZVQ7O&pd_rd_r=A7W2A3YVPPQG0F2AFHF9&pd_rd_w=Q0HWB&pd_rd_wg=QyUm2&psc=1&refRID=A7W2A3YVPPQG0F2AFHF9

My recommendation is the Niterider Lumina micro 750:

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B071FKT3NT

Second option is a Cateye Volt 1200.

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00FRMTEUI

Both of these are still useable as handhelds

Bike specific lights are rarely recommended on this sub, however they will have the most solid bicycle mounts, with a beam pattern designed for bike riding and will be waterproof. runtimes will also usually be pretty long.

What's your budget?

https://www.amazon.com/NiteRider-Lumina-Micro-Boost-Front/dp/B07DGLJWQV/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1542474020&sr=8-6&keywords=niterider

https://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Metro-500-USB-Rechargeable/dp/B00E1NQ3DU/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1542474035&sr=8-5&keywords=cygolite

https://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Dash-460-Bike-Light/dp/B01IO12WIY/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1542474035&sr=8-13&keywords=cygolite

Those are some very good options in different price ranges. I'd recommend getting something that's at least 400 lumens, but you don't really have to go 850 if you're riding on partially lit streets.

Rising at night is my favourite. I actually feel safer when it's dark out. Invest in lights. I use this [front light](light & motion urban 500 bike light (2016), onyx https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01F0FCAKW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_mMRwDbHR7Z8ES) and rear light combo. I feel like its bare minimum though. I bought reflective tape and put it on my helmet too. (Wear a helmet) But the fact is, no matter how much effort you put into making yourself visible, a drunk driver wont see you. I have a cheaper GoPro mounted on my handlebars. That way you have some sort of evidence if anything goes awry.

Side streets are your friend, even if it takes you 5 mins out of the way. I try and avoid Milwaukee and Lincoln mainly because of all the bars on those streets. Just remeber to ride defensively, gont go 35mph just because the roads are clear. It's not a race. Ride safe, buddy!

The thing with reflective gear is that someone else's light has to bounce off of it for you to be seen. Around sunrise and sunset, lots of drivers won't have their headlights on. Reflectivity also won't save you if someone's about to door you.

Personally, I've taken to riding with my front light on at all times (rear on at night). We have bike share bikes in town that do it anyway, so it's not that out of place. The difference between having it on and off in traffic is noticeable. People actually see me, and don't try to turn in front of me. To avoid going through so many batteries, I've tried a few USB rechargeable lights. The Cat-Eye Volt 300 has been my favorite. Serfas is a little bit cheaper, and more aesthetically pleasing, but doesn't last as long between recharges as the Cateye.

What kind of cycling? Mountain biking, road cycling, just commuting? I ride at night all the time, I usually ride to a bar a few times a month. My 10 yo son and I rode to the movies the other night.

Make sure you have a decent light setup. I use an urban 500

https://www.amazon.com/Light-Motion-Urban-500-Headlight/dp/B01F0FCAKW?th=1 for a head light and this rear blinker

https://www.amazon.com/Rechargeable-Intensity-Accessories-Helmets-Flashlight/dp/B015IEJ0GC/ref=sr_1_25_sspa?keywords=amazon+rear+bike+light&qid=1556798034&s=gateway&sr=8-25-spons&psc=1

along with a neon green jacket and two led wheel lights. I find that people actually see me more at night than during the day.

​

I have this setup for my kids https://www.amazon.com/Ascher-Rechargeable-Headlight-Resistant-Included/dp/B01EUQ7ZQG/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_468_bs_lp_t_1/147-0384363-3958821?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=58XK20AREYT4CNVC9WYV

and it's actually really decent.

Im using the Tansoren 4000 Bike Light. Link Bellow. Stock lights dont do much elimination and doest have a strobe mode. I like these:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00Y441QT2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Can really sympathize with a lot of this. Sounds like you definitely need to get one of these. They really work, I can assure you.

> So many cars seem to think that とまれ is optional. I get to a stop sign before a car and I still slow down

I'm a firm believer in setting a good example, as well as following the law. At every stop sign you are technically supposed to come to a complete stop and have both feet touching the ground at the same time.

Of course almost no one does this. But I think that you can slowly educate the people around you by doing it yourself. I actually enjoy the confused looks on other cyclists' faces as they zoom past me while I'm stopped at a stop sign, without even slowing down. If they see it enough times, they might begin to understand that it's actually what you're supposed to do. Same goes for cars. I've found that I can sometimes get begrudging respect from cars when I properly stop at a stop sign and they realize that I'm actually following the law and they're not. By flagrantly and boldly doing things properly, you can actually embarrass other drivers/riders a little.

Of course none of that helps if you get hit by a car, but that's what the first link is for ;-)

You should try out the Hornit 140 if you want a loud as balls electric horn. Look up some videos of it on youtube if you want to hear how it sounds. It takes 2 AAA batteries if memory serves and it lasts for months. You can wire it to your bars then route the cable to wherever you've mounted the horn. I believe it was developed in South London.

https://www.thehornit.com/faqs

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hornit-dB140-V2-Worlds-Loudest/dp/B006TDEV20/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1518620074&sr=8-1&keywords=140db+horn

Worth. Every. Penny.

This horn has prevented cars from hitting me while on my bicycle multiple times.

I bought three sets of these, three of these main 950lmn a roll of 3m and a couple cams

I really light these for front and rear but they are for city riding where you only need to be seen and not see the road in front of you. https://www.amazon.com/Serfas-Thunderbolt-USB-Headlight-Black/dp/B009NZVQ7O/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1519866746&sr=8-2&keywords=serfas+bike+light

Front and rear. The headlight is USB chargeable and the tail light is powered by 2 triple A batteries. I'd prefer to only have to charge one thing at a time, but that's just me.

i use this

cateye volt 300
https://www.amazon.com/CAT-EYE-Rechargeable-Headlight-Helmet/dp/B00ED2P3U8/ref=sr_1_3?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1538368843&sr=1-3&keywords=cateye+volt+300

https://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Metro-500-USB-Rechargeable/dp/B00E1NQ3DU/ref=sr_1_7?keywords=cygolite&qid=1564430516&s=gateway&sr=8-7

I have one of these mounted to my helmet with one of these. They used to make a version with a flashing red light on the back but I haven't been able to find that in a while.

I've been using this SecurityIng light for 3+ years with no issues at all and it is comparable to much more expensive systems. I bought a few larger batteries for backups and to extend the time I can use it (they're also cheap). For $25 if it ever breaks I wouldn't hesitate to buy a new one. Also added a diffuser lens to it... https://www.amazon.com/SecurityIng-Waterproof-Headlight-Headlamp-Bicycle/dp/B009QX8B2Q/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1499698709&sr=8-8&keywords=securitying

Just my $0.02, others will disagree, but I would spent most of your budget on the front light. The rear light isn't as important, assuming it's not some walmart POS. You can buy a solid rear light for $20-25ish at your LBS and spent about $50 on your headlight

I have one of these, and you can get it on sale if you look around for about $45

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00E1NQ3DU/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_dp_ss_2?pf_rd_p=1944687502&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B008KKNMLG&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=071DX7NGX0H77H2DMPCF

500 is brilliant! I wouldn't want it pointed at me.

This is the one I have.. It's bright as hell, and yeah about $20..

I don't know if this will stop them, or create a sound war, but you could try honking back at them.

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B006TDEV20