Best bike lights & reflectors according to redditors

Note: finally posting this as USPS finally paid up on my claim.

USPS truck sideswiped me as we crossed an intersection. Driver was cited and USPS paid my claim. I got out of this with some minor road rash and a strained muscle, but otherwise no injuries.

One more of the bike http://www.imgur.com/gallery/3QQxtxC

Pedal is sheared off the axle, wheels are annihilated, as is the fork, stem faceplate is torn up along with the saddle, and cranks are bent. Rain gear was all destroyed as well due to sliding across the pavement. Helmet also toast.

Also, since the question keeps coming up:

Yes, I did have lights. Tail light was destroyed/thrown from bike. The headlights had been removed by me at time of photos as I didn't want them getting lost/damaged further. Vis 360 was mounted to helmet. Also had a Planet Bike Spok which is slightly viable in the second picture, under the saddle.

• Vis 360
  
  
• Cygolite Metro 550
  
  
• Planet Bike Super Flash
  
  
• Planet Bike Spok

Pick up some spoke reflectors. Adds an unbelievable amount of visibility, and even non-cyclists think it makes my wheels look cooler.

Something like this.

I've ordered six of these lights in the past. Three immediately went back because they didn't work out of the box. They are very cheaply made and are $20 for a reason.

They are also nowhere near 1000 lumens. That's the theoretical max of the LED, not how many actual lumens it pumps out. Realistically, it's about 600-700 at most. That's still awesome for $20, but it's nowhere near 1000 lumens.

This one: http://www.amazon.com/SecurityIng%C2%AE-Waterproof-Bicycle-Lighting-Flashlight/dp/B00C2MHNJK/ref=sr_1_4?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1414784449&sr=1-4&keywords=securitying is a much better made light. I have two of them and they have a better beam pattern and have lasted a lot longer than the single beam ones. It's nowhere near 2800 lumens though. Again, that's a marketing claim based on a theoretical max.

I use the dual beam on my helmet, and the single beam with a wide beam diffuser on the handlebars. It's a great combination. The use the same battery pack, so if one dies, like it did on my last ride, then you can just swap the battery pack to the helmet.

Bite my shiny metal ass.

Dont forget a lock. I use this one $80 this one is more affordable $35

drunkriding requires lighting. People seem to like cygolite.

[Nice singlespeed tool $20 ] (https://www.amazon.com/Pedros-142724-Trixie-Fixie-Tool/dp/B001Q221GM)

That bike has rack mounts. Racks mean you can bring more than one case of beer home at a time.

I dont carry much else on the singlespeed. A small $2 patch kit, tire levers and an inflator.

Edit: The Modified Sheldon, credit: 802bikeguy

I've been biking to work for over a decade now. I figure I save somewhere between $3000 and $4000 a year (just parking where I work costs almost $1000 every year!). The other month, I realized I had a bad wheel that needed replacement (factory defect I didn't notice for a long time). Rebuilding a brand new wheel and some other little maintenance things hit me at $180. There was a split second of outrage until I realized that's the only money I've spent on this bike, aside from a new tube or two, in 5 years.

If you do go the bike route, make sure you spend your money on a good helmet and great lights. There are some really great panniers out there that will allow you to grocery shop and carry tons of stuff. You'll never look back.

I highly, highly recommend getting a bike from Bikes Direct. They have some amazing bikes at amazing prices. The deal is that the bikes have some paint blemishes and aren't "perfect" so they can't be sold by the manufacturer. I had a hard time finding the paint blemishes on mine and they were on the rack the bike came with!

Hey there! I ride that leg very frequently - it is R38 / South Dakota Ave. Yes, it is dedicated shoulder riding, but the shoulder is widened more than a usual highway's would be. I would recommend it over gravel for one major reason: drivers expect bikers to be there. During a good summer day you'll encounter 5-10 bikers in the 10-mile stretch; all regular drivers in the area will be aware that bikes are on the shoulder.

Must-have #1: get a good helmet-mounted mirror (I use this one) and continuously assess the situation area you. Be especially vigilant about people passing other cars. IMO having you, a car, and another car all in a line together is a great way to die. If I see a car swing out to pass another car near me, I usually give a very clear "stop" hand signal to indicate I want them to wait until they are clear of me. Some oblige, some don't.

Must have #2: set up a safety rule and follow it. Mine is that I watch for an approaching car and if at any point their tire touches the solid white line into the shoulder, I hard brake and remove myself from the road. Thankfully, that's only happened once, and in that particular case the driver did start moving towards the center line as he approached, though I had already begun stopping.

Must have #3: get a very bright flashing rear light and use it during the day while on the highway. I have to admit to you that mine isn't bright enough, but reading this made me realize I need to get one purchased before the season starts back up, so I think I'm going to give this guy a try.

If you do the things above I think you'll find the ride up very enjoyable. Good luck and stay safe!

I usually find the Google maps estimate a bit generous - on a 25-minute estimate I might get 20 minutes, and ride 14-18mph on an upright hybrid. I know some people here on their road bikes ride faster.

Safety-wise, I actually would say your vest is even more important than lights. I personally prefer these straps. I've been using them for over 2 years. They light up like day, and don't overheat you in the summer like a full vest would while allowing you to layer multiple coats in the winter.

A nice 1000+lumen front light is another must - you want to not only be seen but in dark conditions to be able to see hazardous objects on the road, particularly a country road. This is the light I've been using for over 2 years (plus backup batteries to easily swap out), but anything bright will do. I prefer steady beam on my front light rather than having it blink - again for visibility.

For rear lights you (again) want something very bright and visible from far away, but that blinks. This is the one that I use, but again anything bright is good.

Good luck out there!

usb chargable, and I use both myself:

rear light

front light

If he doesn't have a good light set...

Metro/Hotshot Combo.

https://www.amazon.com/Bright-Eyes-WATERPROOF-Rechargeable-Headlight/dp/B00X90ZYJ0/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1506545184&sr=8-3&keywords=bright+eyes+bike+light

Get two, one for bars and one for helmet. Spot on the helmet, diffuser on the bars. You'll want a better mount for your helmet light, which depends on your helmet, some manufacturers (Smith) make camera/light mounts.

Ok...didn't realize I had to add a comment to add text to an image post. Anyway...

Long story short: first time I rode, I slipped and fell and had nasty road rash. The ignition on my scooter was fucked and I was in recovery for about 2 weeks.

Photos of my injuries when they were fresh, click at your own risk:

http://imgur.com/a/tMoHLhf

Here we are weeks after, everything has healed completely except for my shoulder and wrist. I sprained the shit out of it apparently. I bought some gear to keep me protected and this is what I use:

Knee/shin guards:

https://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/leatt-dual-axis-knee-shin-guards

Elbow guards:

https://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/alpinestars-vapor-pro-elbow-guards

Gloves:

https://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/alpinestars-smx-1-air-v2-gloves

Helmet:

https://www.foxracing.com/proframe-matte-helmet/23310.html?dwvar_23310_color=465&dwvar_23310_size=S&cgid=mtb-mens-helmets-proframe#start=4

After doing some errands on the scooter today, two things I've realized: riding for a while really takes a toll on your legs, mostly calves and your hands really cramp up after a while (3+ hours). When I had the accident, I was going 20mph and while I was riding today, I realized why I fell. The speed never went down because with the Emove cruiser, if you hold the throttle for a while, it automatically activates cruise control. I figured out you can just turn it off by pressing the throttle twice but still, better late than never. Also I got a little too confident and went to the second mode instead of just staying on the first. I rode today strictly on the first mode and everything went smoothly. My only complaint is how stupid hot it gets where I live and I was drenched in sweat by the end of the day

Edit: I forgot to mention the smaller things I've attached to the scooter

Bag:

WILD MAN EVA Hard Waterproof Shell Scooter Storage Bag for Scooters Folding Bike (3L) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07TL9YN11/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_rZoWDb0AHX2M7

Phone holder:

Roam Universal Premium Bike Phone... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LWDCSIZ?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Bike headlight:

Bright Eyes Fully Waterproof 1600 Lumen Rechargeable Mountain, Road Bike Headlight, 6400mAh Battery (Now 5+ Hours on Bright Beam). Comes w/Free Diffuser Lens and Free TAILLIGHT https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00X90ZYJ0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_N3oWDb6Q6AS7V

And sunglasses... any will do honestly I just got these since they look cool:

Hulislem S1 Sport Polarized... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018RZNQ3M?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DNG8DSY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Those are the ones I got! Super easy to install, all they do is snap onto your spokes & you're all set!!

Bike Lights for $9: https://www.amazon.com/BV-Bicycle-Headlight-Taillight-Quick-Release/dp/B00A6TBITM/ref=sr_1_4?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1503144942&sr=1-4&keywords=bike+lights

Helmet $25: https://www.amazon.com/Bell-Adult-Orange-Titanium-Helmet/dp/B00TS3FZFU/ref=sr_1_4?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1503144980&sr=1-4&keywords=bell+bike+helmet

I ride 3 miles roundtrip rather than 7 usually on a steel beast. If you can find a lighter frame and don't carry as much it should be fairly easy. Note, there is an evil 1% grade from Grant to like Elm and the wind tends to blow in that direction.

I commute to work at night as well. I use a Cygolite Expillion 350 headlight on the front and two Planet Bike Superflash taillights on the back. I also wear a yellow traffic safety vest with retro-reflective stripes.

I have been riding at night for more than a year now without incident. I have been told by a coworker who passed me riding to work at night that he could see me a half mile away, lit up and glowing like a Christmas tree. All of this stuff will cost about $100, but it could save your life.

I use a Cygolite Metro 550. Love it.

I use these:
https://www.amazon.com/Ascher-Rechargeable-Headlight-Resistant-Included/dp/B01EUQ7ZQG

They are really bright without being so bright that they kill the eyes of other cyclists, they pop on and off in seconds with a simple silicone band so you can put them in your pocket when you lock up your bike. And the charge lasts for a solid 10-15 hours so if you don't ride that much you can charge them once every two weeks.

My preference for lights depends on the type of conditions I'm riding in. In daylight or early evening, a blinking light is good for making you more visible. At night along dark paths, a solid light is crucial for being able to actually see what's in front of me. In dark conditions, a blinking on/off light will make it harder for other people to track you, which is why a combination is good.
In order to not worry about a huge number of lights, I like the Cygolite Metro which has a steady-flash mode where there is a solid light with a little pulse, so it both gives light and attracts attention without being annoying. I also have a taillight where the light moves back and forth instead of blinking.

Have you tried the TwoFish one? I use it with an A6.

8 UK pounds is about $12. These aren't quite that cheap, but are reasonable:

http://www.amazon.com/3M-Scotchcal-Striping-50-Foot-79902/dp/B0010AUXPQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1369847349&sr=8-1&keywords=scotchcal

http://www.amazon.com/Reflexite-REF-DB-Retroreflective-Daybright-Tape/dp/B000TPJYFI/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1369847513&sr=8-5&keywords=reflexite

Pre-cut for your spokes:

http://www.amazon.com/Lightweights-Power-Reflectors-Wheels-86-Piece/dp/B002KYFWQ6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1369847659&sr=8-1&keywords=lightweights

hotshots are good, built in battery, and really bright if you want them to be ( adjustable settings )

https://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Hotshot-2-Watt-Rechargeable-Taillight/dp/B005DVA57Y

Not good for aero seatpost though

Cygolite has really good customer service too, i've contacted them on two separate times about replacement rubber buttons ( lost one in a crash, the other during my ride ) And they mailed me some at no cost.

My headlight from them is kinda poopy, but these taillights are great, mine is going on 2+ years with tons of use and never had any issues and battery still holds fine. Really easy to turn on/off while riding the bike too.

SecurityIng Waterproof 1200 Lumens XM-L U2 LED Bicycle Light

Twenty bucks. Super bright. Multiple brightness settings. It will light up the road ahead of you. Great for dark roads and bike paths. This thing is brighter and smaller than the halogen lighting kit I spent $150 for, 20 years ago! Has a separate battery pack, which I ziptie to my rear rack (you can put it in a water bottle cage also).

https://www.amazon.com/SecurityIng-Waterproof-Lighting-Headlight-Rechargeable/dp/B00C2MHNJK/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1504365779

This is the headlight I use

For just commuting and stuff I'd say go with a AA or AAA flashlight. they won't be as bright, but they will be much more versatile. Get some eneloops and you'll have a great system for years.

Personal favorite flashlight in the AAA dept is the Nebo Redline.

I know most people here like the Twofish Lock Blocks for holding the flashlight.

Or you could get the two as a combo.

That should be a good and easy to use system that's brighter than you really need for a price that's affordable.

btw, I'm leary of DealExtreme...they look fairly shady and there's not even specs for things like lumen output on a lot of those lights. Often you get what you pay for, and I'm guessing on those lights it's not worth the $8 you'd save.

I use these:

Two Fish Lockblocks Flashlight Holder
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001CJXB5E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_rknsxb1RVXXRA

But I don't think think I'd use them offroad except for on a helmet.

They easily adapt to any of the flashlights I have, but will bounce/jiggle quite a bit on rough roads.

You could try a harder plastic one like this:

Leegoal Bicycle Bike Flashlight LED Torch Mount Holder 360° rotation Cycling Clip Clamp
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ADLUDSA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_8mnsxbQB4YCG8

I think they are called fish blocks. WOrks with any standard tube flashlight: http://www.amazon.com/Two-Fish-Lockblocks-Flashlight-Holder/dp/B001CJXB5E

You can mount with this type or this type quite easily. There are others as well, but most are not as good or too bulky.

The only issue with using a flashlight is you have to be very careful not to blind oncoming vehicles/bikes/pedestrians with any light bleed (or badly aimed light).

desktop site: click it

Put some tape on the crank arms and some spokes. The movement should make you more visible.

There's these if you have trouble with reflective tape on spokes.

If you want to do something crafty with your daughter, you could try to cut some of this 3m reflective tape into interesting shapes: http://www.amazon.com/3M-Scotchlite-Reflective-Silver-36-Inch/dp/B000BQRIV2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1452464185&sr=8-1&keywords=3m+reflective+tape. My experience with that tape is that it is very reflective, but you'll want to replace it after a couple years.

If you want something reflective on the spokes, these work pretty well: http://www.amazon.com/Lightweights-Power-Reflectors-Wheels-86-Piece/dp/B002KYFWQ6/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1452464201&sr=8-4&keywords=reflective+bicycle+spoke

Also, Vespertine makes some reflective flower pins and such. My wife has one, so I can tell you they are definately very reflective, but they are kind of silly expensive: http://shop.vespertinenyc.com/category/jewelry. I'm not sure exactly where I can just get a sheet of whatever they are made of to make my own stuff.

these "Lightweight Power Reflectors" They're badass. Takes a good hour or so to put them on but they show up crazy bright in car headlights (no battery needed!)

Here's more pics

Pick up one of these brackets: Taillight Bracket

Then get any compatible light, such as: PDW Danger Zone or Nightrider Solas

The PDW Danger Zone is a better light, and cheaper, but the Nightrider is USB rechargeable. The PDW is better, because you can easily pair it with rechargeable AAA batteries. This allows you to replace the batteries as they wear out, toss a non-rechargeable battery in in a pinch. When used a couple hours a day, decent rechargeable batteries last over a full week. IMO rechargeable AAA > USB rechargeable.

Or, if you find a light you like with the standard CatEye-style rear light mount, there's this bracket that fits those: CatEye Rack Bracket CatEye mounts are square with small indents on the back, like this: CatEye Light (best picture I could find).

That said, depending on where you live, I'd really recommend looking into a dyno hub and dyno lighting. Lithium batteries really work poorly in the cold, and NiMH work only marginally better. With long, cold days coming, not relying on batteries is really nice. At the least, I'd recommend against lithium batteries if you live somewhere cold. Rechargeable NiMH aren't really that much bother, especially if you buy extras and have them in a charge-rotation...always fresh batteries.

I agree with all this, and in addition I would recommend just getting some cheap sports clothing from your local department store. No need to spend all that money on specialty bike clothes if your commute is only 7 miles. A general sports tee (in the US, my local Target has some sports tees in high-vis orange and yellow for $8) and some sports shorts. Make sure they're made from wicking material or you'll be miserable in the warmer months. For such a short commute though, padded cycle shorts are not necessary. My cycle commute is about 8.5 miles and I've never needed or wanted specialty padded cycle shorts. Most of the year I wear some cheap cargo shorts, in summer it's wicking workout shorts, in the winter I wear lined tights under my work slacks.

Use the money you save to buy some good panniers and fenders.

Get some good lights-- you'll want them just in case you find yourself cycling in low light or if it's cloudy and dark or foggy. At the least, get a good taillight.

If you're worried about sweat and don't have a shower facility available, baby wipes are very helpful. Carry some extra deodorant in your pack too. Bike your route in advance a few times to make sure you've got enough time to get to school and get yourself dressed/prepared.

I recommend this: Cygolite Hotshot 2W

They don't come stronger than this one..

Niterider Lumina 750 (or higher) is a great light

Bikes direct has a steal of a deal going right now on the 1100 boost: http://www.bikesdirect.com/incredible_holiday/lumina-1100-boost-lights.htm

Don't go less than 700 lumens, don't settle for a janky flashlight rig.

edit here's a good taillight too: https://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Hotshot-2-Watt-Rechargeable-Taillight/dp/B005DVA57Y (these things are bright)

This is what I use for my handlebars: Night Rider Lumina 650

Bright USB chargeable lights FTW! I like to be able to see what kind of pot holes and rocks I'm approaching. Also, with 650 lumens, you can seriously intimidate cars. Their driving behavior changes noticeably every time they see me.

I also have a Cygolight Hotshot for my rear, but I just got a new bike and now cannot find a way to attach it to my aero seatpost. First world problem, I know. Suggestions?

Oh hey, my lights post! Yup, the Cygolite Hotshot is by far the brightest and most flexible of the sub-$100 tail lights. Unfortunately it looks like Amazon's increased the price recently - it was only $27 when I did my review a couple months ago. Now it's $35. Still cheaper than the suggested retail price though.

These are awesome. Extra batteries can be purchased on amazon as well as larger ones. They are equipped with a quick detach so it won't get stolen while off the bike. CycleGaz uses one.

I bought this light a while ago (it was $40 then, now it's $20). This thing is seriously almost as bright as a single car headlight.

I have now purchased 5 of these lights; 2 for myself, and after seeing them in use, 3 for the owner of the bike company I just recently left:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006QQX3C4/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

You cannot beat them for the money.

Imo spoke reflectors are better as you don't have to turn them on and they don't require batteries

Salzmann 3M Scotchlite Hi Vis Spoke Reflector Bicycle Clips - 36 Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DNG8DSY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_v7SxCbKK6GHDZ

Looks like these are a similar product available stateside.

Honestly, your needs are really pretty minimal and your budget is more than adequate. Here are a few points to consider to get the bike to do what you want.

First, get a rear rack and panniers. This might cost $100-$150 out of your budget, but is VERY worth it because now you can carry things with you. Your commute is short enough that a backpack wouldn't be terrible, but if you want to pick up groceries or go longer distances then the backpack becomes a much less attractive idea.

Second, I recommend getting flat resistant tires for commuting. A flat tire sucks when you're on your way into the office. Count on spending close to $100 for a set of these. It sounds like a lot, but the difference in dependability is huge. I have Continental Touring Plus, but there are a few brands out there that have build a solid reputation.

Third, get a good lock, and use it. The bay area is bad for bike theft, even from places that you think would be safe. They're very easy to sell for a quick buck, no questions asked. Read up on how to lock the bike and how not to.

Fourth, get front and rear lights. Get good ones. It's staying light later now, but you want to be really visible to cars. I use a light like this in front: http://amzn.com/B00GJZ015Y

Happy shopping!

I like and use this light. On its max setting, it's too bright for lit streets or two way bike paths, but it's nice when I get out into my neighborhood with very little lighting. I usually use it on the first or second brightness setting on paths or roads. I've seen it as cheap as $35 or so on amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Metro-550-USB-Light/dp/B00LXTORC4/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1485022128&sr=1-1&keywords=cygolite+metro+550

When it comes down to it, the other guy is right. It's really all about the angle of the light, not the lumens.

Definitely get a light! If you’re riding at night, they’re arguably a more critical piece of safety equipment than a helmet. That means rear lights too! It’s hard to realize how invisible you can be without one.

Cygolite Metro 400 Hot Shot USB Combo Light https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LXTOXPA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_m3KUAb39S0332

This is a great deal. It might seem kind of pricey, but Cygolite makes high quality stuff so you won’t have to think about it again after you buy it.

Hopping on this to recommend Cygolite Metro headlight & hotshot tail-light

Just one, I had bought a bunch of light up junk totally unrelated for a silly race, and it happened to fit perfectly around the board. Well, perfectly around my board, with those particular bash guards on.

I folded the light strip in half, marked it, taped it center front (just to hold it in place), and put the bash guard over it to lock it into place.

With the hot glue gun, I did one small section at a time. One squeeze of the trigger worth, and then pushed the light strip into it all the way, so it made good contact with the board. Don't try to smooth it like caulk, it'll get weird.

The light strip ends just as it reaches the rear bash guard with about 1 cm space left on each side. So whether or not it looks even depends on how well you centered the whole thing.

With the head and tail light on, it looks pretty good, I think. I Prime Now'd the same Blitzu bike tail light from another post on here that I can't find at the moment. And then ordered the headlight that I figured might fit on the front truck. It does. Barely. Sort of. If you turn hard, you might into some issues. I have yet to really test that before I get a second one. The neat thing is that the headlight(s) now point into the direction I'm turning.

A few more photos of various angles.

I have flashing LED lights which you can't miss in the dark. Red in the back and white in the front.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015IEJ0GC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

To me sounds like a pair of right angle headlamps would suit you well. Zebralights are available in different beam patterns.

• H600 - most throwy
  
• H604 - most floody (or older H603)
  
• H600F - more inbetween
  
  All\most of these are available in different tints (with another letter such as w\d\c added to it).
  
  Based off your requirements H604w\d\c as your flood light and either one of the H600 depending on how floody you want the other light to be.
  
  Depending on helmet size just use the strap for that, you can also get a bike mount like this.
  . Not sure about chest mounting off hand.
  
  

I use my Blf A6 (with 18350 body tube) for my bike with this mount.

OLIGHT FB-1 Universal Flashlight Bike Mount for Flashlight (Bike Lightining Mount Accessories) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0761RX64G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_7rrLBbKDSSQZE

What's your price range? That affects the options quite a bit.

How dark is your area - are you looking for something to ensure cars can see you (i.e. do you have streetlights on your whole route) or are you going to need the light to actually see? That affects how much power you need.

For taillights, I love the PDW Danger Zone. Not that expensive, quite bright, and its variable flash setting is very attention getting. I have one on each of my bikes and never leave home without it.

For headlights, there are a lot of options out there. I commute down some dark bike trails at night, so I have a Niterider Minewt 600, which was the predecessor to their current Lumina 650. It's stunning - waterproof, durable, extremely bright (on high, I can go 20-25mph in pitch black with great confidence, and most of the time I just leave it on low or medium for fear of blinding people), very good battery life (I recharge it a couple times a month), and USB rechargable so I just bring it in at work occasionally and charge it there. It's not the cheapest, but if you're planning on bike commuting long term it's a solid investment (I've had mine for over a year and it shows no signs of dying any time soon).

Waterproof gloves.

I know you said you have shoes, but these covers are reasonable. I'm not a huge fan of the color, but winter above the 45 parallel is a dark time of the year and a little extra "I'M HERE" never hurts.

This jacket might seem a little expensive, however I own a few Shower Pass items and cannot say enough good stuff about the quality, durability and comfort of their gear. In my book, they are one of the best wet weather bike clothing outfits around.

There are a TON of options for lighting. Basically you want something on the front that is 400 Lumen or better. For the rear, I've been buying Cygolite's Hot Shot for years. They've always delivered and I've actually had several riders comment on how visible they make me to traffic.

Not sure if that model Schwinn has braze ons for a rear rack? Would strongly recommend adding one and getting a bag if you do. It's really nice not having the weight on one's back in the wet. Good luck, and welcome to the non-fair weather cycling gang. :D

Just get one of these and then use your usual handlebar mount on it.


https://www.amazon.com/Origin8-Eyelet-Stub-Black/dp/B00629QAVG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1522884588&sr=8-1&keywords=origin8+eyelet

1200 lumen cree lights from amazon are around 20 bucks. A bit of hackery to mount them better than the kit it comes with but they are bright and rechargeable and so far mine has been really solid for the last 2 months

http://www.amazon.com/Lumen-Bicycle-HeadLight-Flashlight-Headlamp/dp/B006QQX3C4

> In a nutshell, I hate that all the battery packs for lights, run out in 20 minutes. All of them are ni-cd or nimh. Super expensive and I don't think that bike companies use the brightest LED's available to save on cost/maximize profit.

Then you haven't explored the existing market for bike lights appropriately. Look into Magicshine, Niterider, Lupine, Exposure, Cygolite.

They're mostly using lithium ion batteries. They all claim hours of runtime, depending on the setting. They're using LEDs that don't suck.

20 minutes? Ni-Cd? Have you even seen a modern bike light? The only really credible point you make there is that they're expensive, but that's really subjective, and in my opinion, also not true.

Exhibit A:

http://www.amazon.com/Lumen-Bicycle-HeadLight-Flashlight-Headlamp/dp/B006QQX3C4/

I own three of these and one MagicShine 808. They are functionally identical. I have put them side by side, and they perform identically. I mount one on my handlebars with a wide-angle lens and one on my helmet focused as a spot beam. With this setup, I can ride my 4" FS trail bike through the woods, over demanding trails with multiple 1-2 foot drops, in pitch black. For less than $30 per light.

You could argue, then, that the Magicshine is a ripoff for charging about three times the cost for a functionally identical product. I might agree, I don't know enough about Magicshine's costs and business to really say whether they're price gouging. But in their defense, their products do seem to have a lower reported failure rate by users. The knockoff lights work when they work, but a higher number of customers receive a dud or experience failures of the product with the knockoff. Mine are working dandy, and even if two fail, replacing them will still be cheaper than having bought MagicShines, though I do understand that some people might not want to deal with that kind of product failure.

So I don't mean to insult, I mean to warn you: If you honestly believe the quoted text above, then you have no idea what you're talking about with regard to the current bicycle headlamp market and you need to research this more thoroughly before you start making business plans.

I got this back in January and it hasn't died on me yet. All but the lowest setting is too bright for city streets. I keep it aimed down and use the wide angle lens (sold separately) to get better spread.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006QQX3C4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Nothing wrong with the reflectors. But if you want something nicer looking, spoke sticks are a good candidate and are highly visible at night.

If you want to be a hipster and spend $230 on mediocre lights you lock outside get those. Ootherwise just get some normal LED bike lights:. Having a 4" strip of road illuminated in front of me is not what I call 'useful'

Man, thanks everyone for the responses. I promise I was never trying to be a jerk with the flashing light. I'll not do that anymore (I of course knew it was bright enough to get noticed, didn't think about peoples' lack of ability to perceive motion from the flashing).

I'm going to try the suggested tip to aim the light from 50m at a wall tonight. Also going to see about finding a good and/or diffuser lens for my light. Between these changes, hopefully I'll have better outcomes.

I don't have to ride in the dark enough to buy a more exspensive light, but who knows, maybe Santa will come thru.

FWIW drivers are still jerks sometime, no matter what we do. BUT, hopefully I can be safer, make them more aware, and not ruffle their feathers (too much, a little can be productive! ᕕ( ᐛ )ᕗ).

For all those in the US that do so, enjoy your Thanksgiving! For the rest of you--enjoy your day anyway!

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004CXNY3G/ref=oh_details_o02_s00_i02?ie=UTF8&redirect=true

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001CJXB5E/ref=oh_details_o03_s00_i00

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001TJ45L6/ref=oh_details_o02_s00_i01

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002BZOMYM/ref=oh_details_o01_s00_i00

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000KBEH1W/ref=oh_details_o02_s00_i00

ride safe

This one is my favorite of the lights I use, and it's rechargeable:

https://www.amazon.com/Blitzu-Rechargeable-Intensity-Accessories-Flashlight/dp/B015IEJ0GC/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1511376731&sr=8-6&keywords=

This one also works great, and runs on 2x AAA batteries:

https://www.amazon.com/CatEye-Omni-Bike-Light-Rear/dp/B008QVXQ1K/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1511376770&sr=8-8&keywords=

For the front, I use this thingy with any number of rechargeable (18650 powered) flashlights that I have:

https://www.amazon.com/Two-Fish-Lockblocks-Flashlight-Holder/dp/B001CJXB5E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1511376885&sr=8-1&keywords=

The Finn is a simple, compact, reliable phone holder.

The Fenix or any of a number of similar mounts can affix a small handheld flashlight to your bars or helmet. You have to take care with helmet mounts, because the extremely intense lights available can be blinding to drivers when you turn your head in their direction.

I use one of these along with I really good CREE LED flash light and a Planet Bike Superflash tail light. I have the Planet Bike blaze, blaze 1watt, and blaze 2 watt headlights and find that they are just not bright enough for where I ride. (I ride on completely unlit roads). Although I do LOVE the mount on the Blaze headlights.

I just posted pretty much the same thing about a week ago.

I ended up ordering this Two Fish Lockblocks Flashlight Holder https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001CJXB5E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_0cY0xb9DM7MV3 to use with my Astrolux S1 and it works fantastically. But it took a while to get here so before that I was using a couple of rubber bands and a paper towel to protect the paint, haha.

Edit: the BLF A6, which is identical to the S1 is on sale right now on banggood.

I use Twofish Lockblocks/flashlight holders on three of my bikes. They're cheap and simple and they stay put.

I've always liked Twofish lockblocks but there are cheaper alternatives in that style.

I've never owned a real bike light. The Fenix-Store used to sell these TwoFish LockBlock flashlight mounts and I picked one up when I ordered a replacement PD30 after losing mine 5 or 6 years ago. Have used it on 5 or 6 different bikes with handlebars ranging from skinny CrMo BMX bars to thickly-wrapped, fat mag-aluminum road-bike bars, and with every light I own (except the 1xAAA ones, which I could probably just clip to the velcro loop if necessary). From the narrowest part of an SC52 to a fat plastic incandescent 2x123 light; it holds it securely and doesn't swivel or move even on slick, wet leather or metal. The rubber helps absorb a little bit of the road vibration, but that's an issue with all bike lights I'd imagine. Got left out in the rain/sun/snow for over 2 years while its primary home was outside of a college building. Hasn't started to dry rot or fade or anything. And it hasn't been stolen, which is a miracle in this city. The bungee cords on my pannier rack have been stolen three times, as well as the permanent, screwed-on mount for my taillight (when my taillight wasn't on it), but they never took my little rubber/velcro doohickey. Oh and the Us are different sizes so you can flip it around to accommodate thicker lights or bars. If you have a really thick light and wrapped handlebars you might be in trouble...

Kinda weird to give such a raving review of a piece of rubber with two u-shapes and velcro straps... but as both a flashlight enthusiast and a frequent cyclist, it's helped me cut back on my gear since I can just slap whatever's in my pocket on my handlebars and roll. And then I don't have to invest a bunch of money to have a durable, waterproof, multi-mode (without PWM) bike light. The situation is different now, I guess. Since I assume you can get decent-quality LED bike lights for cheap just like you can get a decent ThorFire flashlight for 9 bucks.

Oh and Zebralights are crazy efficient. I miss my SC52. Even running a measly 840mAh 14500 I could use it for everyday tasks for a few weeks. I'll be picking up another ZL sometime soon :)

I realize you're probably looking for clothing, but in addition to the good recommendations you're bound to get here, try Lightweights. I swear by them for all of my wheels -- lighter than reflectors, and far more effective (anecdotally speaking). Apparently they make rolls of tape now, not just the little stickers for spokes.

https://www.amazon.com/Lightweights-Power-Reflectors-Wheels-86-Piece/dp/B002KYFWQ6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1479480518&sr=8-1&keywords=lightweights

https://www.amazon.com/Lightweights-Stealth-Tape-100-Inch-Roll/dp/B001P3UR9U/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1479480518&sr=8-2&keywords=lightweights

As for a headlight, I have one like this. It's extremely bright and has three settings: high, low, blinking. I feel extremely comfortable with this on my bike and it lasts forever. I also opted for the wide angle lens that I think works great for riding on roads as it doesn't shine directly into the eyes of vehicle drivers.

For a taillight, I have this one. Again, it's got a few options for blinking/solid lights/etc, and the blinking option is super bright. I rode at night once and turned around to see if I could tell how far it was casting and I could see it reflecting off a stop sign about 1-2 blocks away.

One suggestion for a helmet (I don't know your budget), but I backed the Lumos Helmet on Kickstarter and received mine last month. It's awesome, and I feel way more visible with it than with a normal helmet. Plus the turn signals are a major plus!

I use the Portland Danger Zone and like it. Really bright and attention getting. While not USB rechargable, the battery life seems reasonable.

[Portland Design Works Danger Zone] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00435IPFK?pc_redir=1412172978&robot_redir=1)
It's very bright and affordable.

What kind of lights are you using?

For the front, you may want to check out the Design Shine Lights ( http://www.DesignShineLighting.com ) which are quite bright, and should be available soon. Or check out the Planet Bike 2w headlight which blinks:

http://www.amazon.com/Planet-Bike-Blaze-2Watt-Headlight/dp/B0015R1NE4/ref=pd_bxgy_sg_img_b

I am actually using the Nu Flare LED flashlight and a handlebar flashlight mount because it's a lot brighter than the Planet Bike headlight, but it doesn't blink so that may not work for you ...

http://www.amazon.com/Nu-Flare-77R92L-Ultrabright-Aluminum-Flashlight/dp/B001LYYO10/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1318951039&sr=8-3

http://www.amazon.com/Flashlight-Mount-for-Bike-Handlebar/dp/B004OADU22/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1319730599&sr=1-1-catcorr

NOTE: This mount is okay for my use, you may not like it it you have to remove your lights.

For the rear, I love my Planet Bike Turbo Superflash:

http://www.amazon.com/Planet-Bike-Superflash-Turbo-Light/dp/B004U5PV5A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1318366148&sr=8-1

I emailed Planet Bike and asked them to make a White and Yellow Turbo flash, which I think would take care of front-mount for me.

Finally, you may want to get a little air horn for your bike. Someone did a write here on Reddit a few weeks ago. This is the horn:

http://www.amazon.com/SeaSense-1-4oz-50074011-Image-Reference/dp/B000XQ5B1Y/ref=wl_it_dp_o_npd?ie=UTF8&coliid=I1VY5NBV2BPVP6&colid=2ANXR60WOJLC

This is the write-up and image.

http://www.reddit.com/r/bicycling/comments/lf42p/i_installed_a_compressed_air_horn_this_weekend/

http://i.imgur.com/X6vLI.jpg

Planet Bike Superflash Turbo rear light - Can be seen over a mile away in the middle of the day in bright sunlight.

For headlights, if it's dark and you need to see, it's hard to beat the inexpensive CREE lights you can find on Amazon for $20-$25. Mine puts out more light than my car's high beams. Just make sure to get the diffuser lens, and aim it downwards a bit as they are kind of a spotlight.

This is probably the best tail light you can get. its a full watt and the brightest you can get for 30 bucks. Almost everyone I know rides with these.

http://www.amazon.com/Planet-Bike-Blinky-Superflash-Turbo/dp/B004U5PV5A/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1374801374&sr=1-1&keywords=superflash+turbo

I'd recommend a USB-rechargeable 2w rear light.

Do you want them to see in the dark, or to be seen?

These are the best:
http://www.dinottelighting.com/

They are not cheap.

Here is a much more affordable tail light:
http://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Hotshot-2-Watt-Rechargeable-Taillight/dp/B005DVA57Y/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1372712157&sr=8-4&keywords=cygolite+bike+lights

In my opinion, any of the super cheap blinky lights (e.g. Knog, ~$10) are a waste of money. They won't make you more noticeable. I don't know how much you care, but there are plenty of youtube videos demonstrating how bright some of these lights are. Without knowing your budget, it's hard to recommend something.

I have a Cygolite Metro 1100 and Light & Motion Urban 650. Both are enough to see with and ride around 20mph on paved surfaces. They are supposed to last ~1.5hrs at peak output. After dark, I ride with both.

I find that the typical advertised runtime on 500+ lumen lights doesn't go past 2hrs without an additional battery pack (not all have swappable batteries). Only the cheap lights aren't weather resistant.

Other brands such as Nite Rider, Lezyne, and Cateye make some really bright lights. I wouldn't go below 500 lumens if you ride with any pace.

As for taillights, a Cygolite Hotshot and Light & Motion Vis 180. I think I go a good week before recharging. I ride with both after dark and one all the time.

As far as flashing and constant, I do one of each in back when in traffic, constant on trails. Headlights are always constant and I turn off the super bright one on trails.

Thanks for playing along.

> Busch and Muller Ixon IQ Premium

Good This might be one of the most amazing light out there. Unlike many other lights they recognize that "good" isn't just pumping out tons of lumens. They put the light where it needs to go, on the road and not where it shouldn't be - in drivers eyes and in the trees. Them and Light and Motion have the best optics I've seen. There's a few tunnel beam test out there which show beam patterns well.

This review sold me on the light

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WwM7vDvvGhU

They cover the beams at the end.

Now the thing is in this vid he's shooting pitch black, which all lights look bright in. Either way the flood is great.

Bad The high run time is listed at 3hrs (standard pretty much..) which is just long enough or a little too short depending on you. I wish more lights ran 4hrs on high as I take long rides with breaks in the middle. Itd be nice to not worry.

It doesn't have any side cut outs for visibility which do seem to help, even on very low powered lights.

Ugly

The main downfall for this light is its price, which I think is over $100. For some people $100 for one light isn't great. Some people might prefer to spend $100 on a different lighting setup (albeit likely with worse optics).


>Cygolite Hotshot



good

Crazy popular and a pretty neat light. I like the strong strobes and customizable flash settings for traffic

bright, unique flash patterns, affordable, good company.

bad

My big beef is it lacks a gentle pulse like this.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UthVrhsbRr4

for group/night trail rides i dont want to blind people. also id love to run a pulse/flasher combo.

PDW (I think) makes a light that combines a crazy flash pattern with a gentle strobe, that might be king...

ugly

lots of complaints about the mount, going back to at lease 2012. last thing i want is to lose a light on a ride w/o knowing.

"This light is great for visibility and can be seen from far away. MAJOR DRAWBACK - the light is mounted to the bike with a very flimsy mount. every time i go over a bump the light is jostled and ends up pointing straight down at the ground which of course defeats the purpose."

http://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Hotshot-2-Watt-Rechargeable-Taillight/product-reviews/B005DVA57Y/ref=cm_cr_pr_top_recent?ie=UTF8&filterBy=addThreeStar&showViewpoints=0&sortBy=bySubmissionDateDescending

My $30 tail light Cygolite Hotshot 2-Watt USB Rechargeable Taillight with USB Cable by Cygolite that was recommended to me on Reddit. Its like Ron Jeremy the Hedgehog. IT just goes and goes its small but mighty but smells better than Ron. . I charged it once and it lasted approximately 42 hrs of use in warm weather.

Link: https://amzn.com/B005DVA57Y

also my REI Flash 22 pack for $33.93 is awesome you have to love the dividends.

If only the Urban lights and motion 200 was as good its a total piece of crap in cold weather it lasts one ride before needing charging in hot weather it needs charging every 5 hours. Their claim of 12 hours on low pulse is bull crap

Thanks!

The basket actually has a little threaded eyelet on the left-hand side of it where you can attach a light mount (something like this). I haven’t used it yet, but it’s supposed to work well.

I mounted one of these to the fender eyelet on the fork

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00629QAVG/

http://www.amazon.com/Paul-Components-light-mount-silver/dp/B0029LKZNU

Either works, they are pretty much the same thing.

if you have rack/fender eyelets/braze ons you could mount 1 or 2 eyelet extenders and mount your light(s) on there. I use one for my front light but you could use it for you rear

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00629QAVG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It'll probably work the same as any of the other clones like this. They're okay. It really depends what you're using it for. It's probably all you'll need or want for riding sedately on pavement.

If you're in the US, and especially if you're a Prime member, you'll save some money buying it through Amazon.

http://www.amazon.com/Lumen-Bicycle-HeadLight-Flashlight-Headlamp/dp/B006QQX3C4/

And the clip lights here:
http://www.fasttech.com/products/1603/10000852/1072900-3-mode-2-led-red-light-tie-on-bike-light-keychains

It doesn't save you much, but savings are savings.

This is the current "best headlight for the money" winner at Amazon :

4 Mode 1200 Lumen CREE XML T6 Bulb LED Bicycle bike HeadLight Lamp Flashlight Light Headlamp

It doesn't use USB for charging, but that's kind of a good thing as its charger puts out more power than a standard USB port does so it charges faster.

As for a tail light, the winners aren't so clear, but so far I'm fond of the $5 Planet Bike Super Flash clones at DX.com -- get two of those and I'm set.

I got this light for $17. People always tell me its one of the brightest lights they have seen. You can also get a wide angle lense for it. I've had it for about 6 months. So far so good.

I have two of these:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006QQX3C4/ref=oh_details_o05_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

One on the handlebars and one on my head. The batteries need a little modification to be waterproof, but besides that, they work great.

Magicshine. I dont know how to insert links. I ride full on dh at night with one of these strapped to my head. Helmet mount can be found on amazon too. Best light for the money imho.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B006QQX3C4/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1368823682&sr=8-1&pi=SL75

I have always gotten lights that run on AA or AAA batteries, and I use rechargeables. On sale from Canadian Tire, or cheap off Amazon, rarely more than $10 for a front and back light. Only every had to replace the lights due to my own carelessness (misplacing or dropping them).

Even the cheapest LED based lights are bright enough to be visible and provide illumination far enough ahead to be safe at the speed I ride.

I guess for someone biking daily at 35km/h down a lonely country road, super-duper bright lights might be useful. At that point might as well get a good flashlight that also has a bike mount, that would be more versitale, and would still be less than $70.

I bought this and while they're not bright enough to illuminate the path, they make me visible to cars, take AAA batteries, and still work after 1+ years. For $8!

Understood:
Front and back bike lights - $8
https://smile.amazon.com/BV-Bicycle-Headlight-Taillight-Quick-Release/dp/B00A6TBITM/ref=sr_1_4?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1500239069&sr=1-4&keywords=bike+lights+front+and+back

A bike is a pretty convenient thing to have on campus, especially if you can't bring a car. You can get to classes quicker (more time to sleep), get around town, and get to work. Plus you'll get a little bit of fitness in the process.

I would look at the used market for a steel-frame single speed bike for simplicity in that there will be less to worry about mechanically and maintenance wise. I'd advise you be as price conscious as you can be since unfortunately bikes are a target for theft or vandalism on college campuses and even the best bike locks are temporary deterrents to a thief. Sometimes having the least desirable bike in the rack is a good thing.

Riding in the rain isn't very difficult, just don't corner hard and give yourself more room while braking. Riding in the snow is a different story. I would look out for some all-condition type tires that have some tread on them to help you get around in the rain. This light set can be had for <$10.

I think these are the good ones:

https://www.amazon.com/Salzmann-Scotchlite-Spoke-Reflector-Bicycle/dp/B00DNG8DSY

Most bike lights concentrate the beam straight ahead or behind and don't do much to make you more visible from the side, and when navigating city traffic it's often quite a good thing to be seen from the side. Wheel reflectors are good, and I really think are advisable on both wheels though I prefer spoke reflectors such as these they shine up brighter than most reflectors in headlights but are probably less noticeable than reflectors in daylight.

An even brighter alternative is wheel mounted lights, I recently tried one of these and liked it enough to get some more from my wife and brother. Pretty small and light and surprisingly bright, really makes you much more visible from the side. The best feature is that they turn on automatically when it's dark and they sense movement so it's one less thing to remember to do when you set off. Only had them for a few days so can't say anything about reliability but for £6 I'm happy to risk it.

Here you go

Other users have mentioned lights and vests, so I'll mention a very cheap, useful visibility enhancement: spoke reflectors.

Put these on the spokes of one half of each of your wheels. (By that, I mean for example on all the spokes of the top half of the wheel when it's at rest.) It will improve your visibility to drivers approaching from the side, and you will be immediately recognizable as a cyclist. The drivers will see reflective strips moving around in circles and immediately think "wheels".

(If you get these, take them off your bike when you clean and re-lube your chain. I learned the hard way that when they get oil/grease on them they lose a lot of reflectivity.)

https://www.amazon.com/Salzmann-Scotchlite-Spoke-Reflector-Bicycle/dp/B00DNG8DSY

these are amazing for visibility!

Scotchlite spoke reflectors, you can get them cheaper if you shop around.

Agreed. I have been using these spoke reflectors:
https://www.amazon.com/Salzmann-Scotchlite-Spoke-Reflector-Bicycle/dp/B00DNG8DSY

If you have silver spokes they are almost invisible.

This is worth it: http://www.amazon.com/Metro-360-Hotshot-2W-Light/dp/B00E1NQ696

I bought this set as good decent lights, not the brightest, but enough to see in city/town conditions in the dead of night, probably okay if you are very rural;

http://www.amazon.com/Metro-360-Hotshot-2W-Light/dp/B00E1NQ696

As for helmets, more cost generally means lighter/more ventilation, depending on how much either of these means to you.

On locks, I'd suggest a set like this;

http://www.amazon.com/Kryptonite-Kryptolok-Standard-Bicycle-FlexFrame/dp/B005YPK8G2/ref=sr_1_4?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1396539131&sr=1-4&keywords=kryptonite+lock+combo

it will allow you to lock the frame/rear wheel with the U, and the front wheel with the cable. It terms of safeguarding your bike, it's more like defensive driving; how, where, time of day, amount of people around, prevalence of bike theft, are bigger factors than the size of the lock.

Sure! Honestly, I don't see any headlights that I'd buy but the Cygilite 2W is pretty good. For a headlight you could do really well getting a high lumen light from Amazon. I use a rechargeable one that I've used for over a year now and it works great. Similar to this one.

I posted this at r/cycling with no responses so I'll try here since it seems more active.

I am in need of a light (soon).

I am starting to ride my bike to work, and with winter setting in I'll be riding in the dark when it's not freezing out. I ran across these two lights on Amazon, are they any good?

1st choice: http://www.amazon.com/Best-Rechargeable-Lumen-Bicycle-Light/dp/B00GJZ015Y/ref=sr_1_1?s=cycling&ie=UTF8&qid=1410199224&sr=1-1

2nd choice: http://www.amazon.com/Rechargeable-LIFETIME-GUARANTEE-SHIPPING-INTENSITY/dp/B00GGR0XD0/ref=sr_1_3?s=cycling&ie=UTF8&qid=1410199224&sr=1-3

Those were the top two ranked so I'm not married to them, just trying to get a feel for what I should look at.

I'm riding on streets/frontage roads for 10 miles each way, about 40 minutes of ride time each way. I'm not opposed to an external battery pack. If it matters my bike is a Trek 3900 that is a few years old.

Thanks!

I got a couple of cheap Bright Eyes Headlamps off Amazon. They're not the best head-lamps in the world, but more than good enough for riding, and the price is right.

Night-riding is the best way to beat the heat, and also gives you a nice perspective on the trails that you ride. I really like it - it kind of strips away a lot of distractions, and leaves just you and the trail.

It keeps me riding through Australian summer, and through the heat in Houston.

It depends on the route and season. If it's going to be a wet ride with 14 hours of no sun, then I run a dynamo hub with lights. The S&P hubs are relatively cheap. And I pair it with a IQ2 LUXOS U, though I am looking into an Exposure Revo MK1.

For speedier rides in the 5hr zone, I'll strap on one of these. The beam is a bit narrow for road use and it is symmetric so you have to be careful about blinding drivers. A spare battery is also pretty cheap, so you can have 10hrs of for $60 which is probably the best deal anywhere.

Finally, if I am doing something short like a 300/400k (well some 400k anyways), I'll throw on an Nightrider Lumina 750. The 5:30hr rating may be a bit optimistic, or my lights are getting a bit old.

As for lux... yea it's a German standard thing. I always wiki it (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lux) and look at the examples they have. You can also see an example of that beam here: http://www.peterwhitecycles.com/headlights.asp

It looks about the same output as my Nightrider at 200lumens.

I got 2 of these lights: http://www.amazon.com/Best-Rechargeable-Lumen-Bicycle-Light/dp/B00GJZ015Y/

Slightly more expensive at $40 each, but is one of the best reviewed "Magicshine 808 clones" on Amazon and the seller apparently has some of the best customer service (I haven't had to deal with issues yet, but they did send me 2 wide angle lens for FREE after I emailed them).

Real world test is probably nowhere up to claimed 1.2k lumens, closer to 800-900, which is enough for me now. I might grab another one so I can mount 2 on the handlebars side by side.

Note that many of the higher 1.6-3k lumen lights, even the $100-200 MagicShines, have heat issues when running on high for long periods of time, which could affect component lifespan.

Could you explain this more?

As I see it, you want lights that can be charged by USB while they're lit. But you don't want to buy a USB battery charger just for the lights, and you don't want to charge lights at night as well? But by using a battery pack to power stuff, you'd have to recharge the battery pack at night anyway.

EDIT: and a lot of lights, like the Cygolite, charge via usb, so they could be recharged by a USB battery pack

I have the same exact rack and attached Cygolite HotShot series with this. It only cost $5 and fits perfectly.

I considered buying one of those. They look awesome.

I got this since the Outbound lights were out of stock and planned on putting it on my helmet after the Outbound light came in. Instead I'm so happy with this Bright Eyes 1600 lumen that I'll just get a second one. It's plenty bright at highest and coverage was great too with the diffuser lens (included, you just have to pop it in).

The BrightEyes is $150 cheaper which helps. Two sample pics. The pics came out ever so slightly brighter than they were in real life due to a high ISO on my phone. The pics were taken on a 5 year old Nexus 6, so no fancy night shot from newer phones. It's pretty close to what I saw.

Blitzu Cyborg

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015IFA03I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_hT.lDbK9W0JPF

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015IEJ0GC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_2T.lDb3DRK579

https://www.amazon.com/Blitzu-Rechargeable-Intensity-Accessories-Flashlight/dp/B015IEJ0GC

Here's what I have-

Backpack: https://www.dakine.com/en-us/bags/backpacks/street-backpacks/mission-25l-backpack-17w/

Helmet: https://triple8.com/product/the-certified-sweatsaver/?category_name=skate

Shoes: https://www.vans.com/shop/suede-canvas-old-skool#hero=0

Pads: https://triple8.com/product/saver-series-3-pack-box/?category_name=skate

I only used all of the pads for about the first week or so, but I still wear the wrist guards-they've prevented serious injuries!

​

Board light (tail of the board): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015IEJ0GC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Board light #2 (front of the board): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015IFA03I/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Front Backpack light (goes on my backpack strap, or hooked to my jacket on my forward facing shoulder): https://www.olightstore.com/h1r-cool-white.html

Back Backpack light (goes around my backpack): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00N1SM2NQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

The board lights aren't super bright, they're mostly so people can see what I'm riding. The O light makes riding at night very safe, and my back light has great visibility.

As for tools, I carry my skate tool and a couple of hexes, and some spare belts. I have a charger I leave in my office and one in my backpack all the time.

​

Hope this helps!

It was a this one

It's great, stupid bright and lasts at least two full days but I try to charge it everyday at the office.

I clip these to my knee pads and wear a headlamp www.amazon.com/dp/B01EUQ7ZQG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_PR3GDbMW50HRN

I bought these for a bike and they are only 11 bucks, they do the job though. They might not fit great. I attach it to the truck, they are about 1/8th the price of the shred ones

​

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01EUQ7ZQG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Here are a couple I use on my ebike.

OLIGHT FB-1 Universal Flashlight Bike Mount for Flashlight (Bike Lightining Mount Accessories) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0761RX64G/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_F.uwDbPPFEH80

2 Pack Flashlight Mount Holder, COSOOS Universal Bicycle Led Light Mounting Holder 360° Rotation Clip Clamp for Flashlight, Cycling, Riding https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07H3KLMLM/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_2avwDbPDH5ZVD

A better mount IMO.

I use Olight's mount. Works perfectly for me! Little tight for the Seeker but other than that works great.

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B0761RX64G/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_Bii1DbSTX0E9Q

I'm a big fan of these for quality, durability, value, and long life.
https://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Metro-550-USB-Light/dp/B00LXTORC4/ref=pd_sim_468_5/147-5119010-3659138?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00LXTORC4&pd_rd_r=M1K45SX1A5CTXRGT9YY2&pd_rd_w=L4lhZ&pd_rd_wg=n9s3O&psc=1&refRID=M1K45SX1A5CTXRGT9YY2

> Cygolite Metro
is this the one you have?
I just added this to my amazon cart. Thanks!

I'm late to the party. I think it's really cool that you're making this work. If you'll be commuting at night please get rear and front lights as soon as possible. This is what I use and it's great. Ten miles is totally doable as a daily commute.

Some things that have helped me:

Doing meal prep on the weekends so that I can carry my whole week's lunches to work on Monday. That way I don't have to worry about making and taking a lunch every morning. It also means I don't have to wear a backpack every day.

Taking all my work clothes for the week on Monday for the same reason.

Leaving protein powder at work. When I was first getting started, the difference it made in my soreness and ability to make it to lunchtime without being starving was huge. Just mix a shake as soon as you get in.

Get fenders whenever as soon as you can. I don't know what sort of climate you live in, but once the temp starts dropping if you don't have fenders even just a little water on the road can make for a really miserable ride.

A friend told me that he has had good luck with these Bright Eyes when I asked him what he used. One on the bar and one on the helmet.

Check out Bright Eyes lights on Amazon.

I have this one. Works great.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00X90ZYJ0/ref=cm_sw_r_em_apa_i_sdzQDbH8M6Q1C

I got this light for my E-bike for riding home at night from work. I wouldn't've thought it would bother anyone because it doesn't even illulminate as much of the road a cars lights do, but then I've had a few occasions of cars flashing their brights at me. I feel bad but I already started to keep it on the lowest setting (because some dumb ass thought it'd be a good idea for a light to go from low to medium to high to FUCKING STROBE LIGHT BITCH to off) and I try to keep it angled down while still being able to see in front of myself.

These bike lights look mediocre, and possibly weaker than my S7's flashlight app lel.

Love this $20 one though

By far, the best cheap light I’ve found is this one by inbike I got it in a lot of amazon return stuff and I didn’t get the mount with it, so I can’t speak for whatever comes with it. The light runs on 18650 cells which are the way to go imo. Pick up a couple more and wall charger and you’re good to go.

I have a version of this one on a couple bikes as well. Same light just non branded. Bright and rechargeable. One has been coated in mud several times and still works fine.

All lights you purchase will have mounts included with them, look for USB rechargeable lights as opposed to battery operated lights.

On the frame in the rear

Ultra Bright Bike Light Blitzu Cyborg 168T USB Rechargeable Bicycle Tail Light. Red High Intensity Rear LED Accessories Fits On Any Road Bikes, Helmet https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015IEJ0GC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_TOF7radLPpoOj

Under the saddle.


LE Super Bright Bike Light, USB Rechargeable Rear Tail Light, Cycling Light, 4 LEDs, 5 Light Modes, Red, Cable Included, Fits on any Bicycles, Helmets https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0197X16BC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_kdJj4Z6x6Tr61


There are much better lights available, I'm upgrading my front currently. So I don't have a link.
And apologies if the links don't work. Not that tech savvy.

Why lights? Safety. Night or day. Be seen, drivers will pay attention.

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.

I use the Cyborg Blitzu ( https://www.amazon.com/Rechargeable-Intensity-Accessories-Helmets-Flashlight/dp/B015IEJ0GC ) with the mount wrapped around my rear Axiom Streamliner rack's flat bridge in the rear (makes sense when you stare at it), and the light oriented vertically. It's probably a bit floppy but it hasn't fallen off or rotated out of position after ~500 miles. No modification needed.

Cheap too, ~$15? Also has excellent side visibility, which is the primary reason I use it.

Here you go:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015IEJ0GC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=digi1516-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B015IEJ0GC&linkId=f7fc1dcbed92d3ed05d81d708edeab4d

No, one of these: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B015IEJ0GC/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Ive got a rear and head light by the blitzu company and they work great. Rechargeable, 3 different power settings, flashing and non flashing settings, and a decently long battery life. (6 hours)

Edit: headlight
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B015IFA03I/ref=mp_s_a_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1506555869&sr=8-8&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=bicycle+light+blitzu&dpPl=1&dpID=51gyEU3rBNL&ref=plSrch

Taillight
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B015IEJ0GC/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1506555869&sr=8-6&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=bicycle+light+blitzu&dpPl=1&dpID=51D0%2BGi4UaL&ref=plSrch

Yes, I think a used hybrid sounds good (ideally find a bike co-op, or friendly LBS with used bikes) - preferably with fenders. Smoother tires (not nobby) will do the most to make riding more efficient, but don't go with skinny tires (ideally 35mm or fatter).

The great thing is you can choose how much energy to put in, especially if it's not extremely hilly and you have gears. Just choose a lower gear and let your legs spin at a fairly high rate (faster than 1 rev per second), low effort, and you'll get there. I don't think you should have any problem doing the whole journey by bike, it should be way less effort than walking. Just ride at whatever pace works for you.

Rain is annoying. Fenders on the bike make it much better, by keeping mud off you. Waterproof gear needs lots of vents to avoid getting very sweaty, unless it's cold. Cheap ponchos work quite well if you have fenders. Lights are especially important for being seen in the rain.

Riding downhill is trivial. If you're going too fast, use the brakes.

Locking up to a pole or bike rack is ok, but your bike will thank you if you can minimize leaving it for hours in the rain.

For no-nonsense, straightforward tips on every aspect of looking after your bike, and some riding tips, check out http://www.sheldonbrown.com/. for instance:

• Braking and Turning Your Bicycle
  
• Locking strategy
  
• What Every Cyclist Should Know About Flat Tires
  
• Chain Maintenance
  
  Bicycles are really quite simple machines, and the knowledge to maintain and overhaul them can be obtained fairly easily one step at a time, to the point where your transportation will be very frugal, very self-sufficient, and will make you fitter and happier.

lights can be fixed but imo it's more work than it's worth.


The front light doesn't hit far enough to be realistically useful when riding in dark-ish area, let alone pitch dark. Grab a cheap $15 flashlight and it'll be 10x more effective than the build in light. You also get to "choose" where you want the light to hit by simply pointing. Also my favorite thing about using a flashlight is you can shine the light at drivers to warn your existence. Super handy when they're making turns.
If you are worried about letting other people see you. (other than the flashlight pointing method I mentioned above) you can simply get those small bike lights like this and wrap it around the rails or use velcro/adhesive to stick it on the rails or fender.


Sorry that this happened. I see that you are still under warranty so I would say it's worth sending the board in if you really care about the lights. Otherwise it's really not worth it.

These aren't the same brand as the ones I got but same shape and clips. They works great.

https://www.amazon.com/Ascher-Rechargeable-Headlight-Resistant-Included/dp/B01EUQ7ZQG/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1538265741&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=flashing+bike+lights+front+and+back&dpPl=1&dpID=41EswLoHm-L&ref=plSrch

I have these on my bike but I really like them for running too. The rubber strap will go over one or two fingers and they're pretty light. They also clip on to a running belt (though I've noticed that people find light emanating from crotch level to be kind of odd) , or sweat band. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01EUQ7ZQG/ref=zg_bs_2367799011_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=ZX6BVTH7AQE9WEHS3BZG

I still need to grab a real mount; I've just been using a few velcro straps. I've been looking at one of these two though.

Beefier

Sleeker

Also worth noting, the EC23 will only do 1000 lumens for roughly 1.5 hrs (I realized I had the wrong value above) and is not USB rechargeable. A USB rechargeable option would be the Thrunite Neutron 2C V3 (50 dollars with battery).

I just wanted to emphasize that you should get a U-lock and lights. The majority of bikes that get stolen had cables locking them.

This headlight and tail light are extraordinarily bright and well priced. It's worth your safety to spend thirty dollars for these, they're durable and easily attached and removed.

Front:
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B005WPXNQ6/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

rear:https://smile.amazon.com/Planet-Bike-Blinky-eXtreme-Bicycle/dp/B000KBEH1W/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1473138954&sr=1-1&keywords=planet+bike+superflash+rear+bike+light


And I got this from somebody as a gift, works well so far:
https://smile.amazon.com/Bike-Lane-Laser-Rear-Light/dp/B01BGYF3RI/ref=sr_1_8?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1473138992&sr=1-8&keywords=laser+tail+light

• Tubes: anything you find will work
  
• Patch kit: I like Einstein's patch kit because the patches are small, thin, and have feathered edges. Rema patches work too, but they're larger. I prefer small patches because the vast majority of tube failures are small punctures and the patch is already a zillion times larger than the hole. I dislike sticker patches and I don't trust them.
  
• Bike pump: The Lezyne pressure drive is small and dependable. Get the carbon fiber one if you want to save grams. I don't use a CO2 inflater because I think they are wasteful and of limited utility.
  
• Seat post bag: Really, anything will work
  
• Water bottle: Whatever you have lying around.
  
• Multitool: I like the Topeak Hexus II. It is compact, and has most of the tools you'll need for on-the-road fixes, including a chain tool.
  
• Pliers: There is NOTHING on your bike that you should use pliers on. Use the proper tools for the job.
  
• Tire levers: Any will work, but my favorites are the Soma steel core.
  
• Rear light: Anything will do. I like the Planet Bike Superflash.
  
• Front light: This totally depends on how often you commute in the dark, and what your environment is like. If you're riding on well-lit city streets, your needs will differ a lot from someone riding on rural roads or unlit trails. I use a SON generator hub with the Lumotec IQ Cyo and the combination is awesome. But not everyone needs that kind of setup.

I use these, more than bright enough for road/ path use, easy to use settings, keeps me safe. I don't really feel like I need any more than what these have to offer, if I did come to that point, I'd got for a light with an external battery pack.

Front light is a Serfas elume 600: https://www.amazon.com/Serfas-Lume-Aluminum-Body-Headlight/dp/B01M24OTZ5

Rear light: https://www.amazon.com/Planet-Bike-Superflash-bike-light/dp/B000KBEH1W/ref=pd_bxgy_468_img_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B000KBEH1W&pd_rd_r=9445d122-5f86-11e8-8c7c-4dd2a68dec07&pd_rd_w=chLdr&pd_rd_wg=YID3e&pf_rd_i=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=3914568618330124508&pf_rd_r=MHEJ7YYDSXNR3W7CW256&pf_rd_s=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_t=40701&psc=1&refRID=MHEJ7YYDSXNR3W7CW256

I have the twofish flashlight holder, cheap but effective flashlight mount.

http://www.amazon.com/Lightweights-Power-Reflectors-Wheels-86-Piece/dp/B002KYFWQ6/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1415732756&sr=1-1&keywords=lightweights

Also great for the money!

I use these and they work very well

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002KYFWQ6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

• Try a dry run on the weekend
  
• Go in early in the morning, leave early in the afternoon, if your schedule allows
  
• What is your route like? Is there a shoulder? If it is wide enough, you could ride in it so long as it is clear of debris, but traffic may pass closer. Is the road 4 lanes? If so, this allows drivers to pass without changing lanes into oncoming traffic.
  
• Are the lanes really wide? If the lanes are wide enough that you feel comfortable with traffic passing you without changing lanes, then you can ride to the right. If not, then position yourself in the middle or left of the lane to encourage drivers to change lanes to pass. See this for more explanation: http://www.bikewalknc.org/2016/01/using-the-left-half-of-the-lane/ (note the chart near the bottom that shows the further right you ride, the less room cars give).
  
• Light up! Get both front and rear lights and use them even during the day. I really like this rear light and have been complimented on it.

I like both the PDW Danger Zone and the PDW Aether Demon.

The Danger Zone runs on two AAA batteries (lasts seemingly forever) and has two LEDs. The Aether Demon has only one LED and runs on a rechargeable battery (plug it into USB).

I leave the Danger Zone on my bike. I put the Aether Demon on my helmet.

My absolutely fav tail light. Bright, with a wicked flasher mode that is great even in the day.

http://www.amazon.com/Portland-Design-Works-Danger-Light/dp/B00435IPFK/ref=lp_2367799011_1_11?s=cycling&ie=UTF8&qid=1413947269&sr=1-11

I use this. https://smile.amazon.com/Portland-Design-Works-Danger-Light/dp/B00435IPFK/ Has been bulletproof for years, and I've only changed the battery once.

I recommend checking out /r/bikecommuting. Although it sounds like you have already been commuting by bike, so I apologize if you already know what I'm saying. I'm assuming because you are asking about what you wear for winter cycling that you do not regularly commute in winter/have a short commute.

You will need to get lights for commuting, especially as winter approaches (assuming that you are in the Northern hemisphere). I have the Cygolite Expillion 350 and the PDW Danger Zone. I once read that a blinking rear light is good for being noticed but a solid light is good for driver depth perception, so my helmet has a red light in back that I keep solid in the evening/night. I will eventually get a second real rear light.

As for clothing - what is your climate going to look like this winter? I was commuting in upstate New York and wore generic winter running tights, wool socks, UA coldgear shirt, a down vest, gloves, and a thin scarf that went around my neck and over my head under my helmet. When I wore thick wool mittens over my gloves, I was toasty in that down to 14 F. I never got goggles/glasses, but they would have been nice when it sleeted.

I don't have any cycling specific wear. I re-purpose what I already have or buy things that will work for multiple activities.

I wash my bike (or at least rinse it off) after any ride where salt from the road was kicked up. Last winter I had a toothbrush and would gently scrub my derailleurs to get off the ice and would use a damp rag to wipe it down. Again, I was biking in upstate New York. I have since moved south and don't yet know what this winter will mean for biking. I'm assuming a lot less ice and a lot less salt.

I'm riding this: http://i.imgur.com/Q1SewUi.jpg (Giant Defy 3)

I was lucky enough to get it on clearance, but it was in your price range and has all the mounts for a rack. Taking the rack and U-lock off makes it a pretty nice weekend warrior for longer rides, too.

I'm not using them, but I've heard nothing but good things about Ortliebs. If I ever have to buy new panniers, that's what I'll go with.

I use a Night Rider Lumina Micro 250 for my front light. It works fine, I just have to make sure I charge it. This is the tail light that I use. I can't confirm that either is the "best" but both work fine for my 7 mile morning commutes.

Other things that you might want to look into:

• A good U-lock, depending on what the situation is at work and whether or not you'll use the bike for anything else. Don't depend on a cheap cable lock, trust me.
  
• A cycle computer. I use a pretty cheap wired one, mostly so I can keep track of the time, but I like to try to keep my speed up, too.
  
• A seat bag for your spare tube, CO2, patches, tire levers, spoke wrench, and multi-tool. If you need extra storage space you can add one of these.
  
• Mini Pump (Yes, I keep CO2 and a pump on my bike)
  
• Water bottle cage and water bottle. (Depending on the length of your commute. I live in Phoenix, so this is pretty vital.)
  
• You might also want something waterproof for your phone. Where I live this isn't vital, but in some places it would be.
  
  
  I think that's all I use.

FWIW, I'm in the Pacific Northwest and commute all year.

I've been using this gear with great success and good relative comfort:

http://amzn.com/B00DQZ0S3K

https://www.showerspass.com/products/club-shoe-covers

http://www.columbia.com/mens-evapouration-jacket-RM2023.html

http://amzn.com/B00435IPFK

http://amzn.com/B008KUXRAW

Wear your helmet over your hood, and a pair of regular safety glasses. When it is really cold I add a balaclava and a fleece jacket. Fenders are a must to keep the dirt down, and I use this lube in the winter:

http://amzn.com/B000WYCD5O

I have an old pair of windproof campmor gloves that are no longer made. If you get cold just pedal harder. It almost never happens, I'm usually too hot.

Your bike depends on your distance, speed and budget. Make sure you get disc brakes, mandatory in my opinion for the higher speeds. This is my ride: http://i.imgur.com/bXXJkjS.jpg, just passed 1400 miles. It is BBS02 on a Kona Dew, I've since switched to Schwalbe Marathon tires. Cost about $1100 and has already paid for itself in gas and parking. 35mph for ~10 miles, 25 mph for 30-40 miles.

Oh, and fuck the snow and ice. Those are the days I drive or work from home.

I use this headlight and the PDW Danger Zone for the rear. link

This is the headlight's comparison photo from /u/ishouldnotbeonreddit's post link


Let us know what you go with!

Most people are going to recommend USB rechargeable lights - however, if you're like me and want to stick to AA/AAA lights, I personally love the Radbot 1000 (it has a reflector built in as a backup), and the Superflash Turbo (different company, but mount compatible with the Radbot).

https://www.amazon.com/Portland-Design-Works-Radbot-Light/dp/B0030BS30K/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1474587656&sr=1-1&keywords=radbot+1000

https://www.amazon.com/Planet-Bike-Blinky-Superflash-Turbo/dp/B004U5PV5A/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1474587685&sr=1-1&keywords=superflash+turbo

I do all my riding at night but mostly paved trails. I did a ton of research before buying my lights.

Front:

MagicShine 872 - This is what I use. For Price per lumens you can't beat this thing. It's crazy bright. I have it on 50% most of the time sometimes lower. For distance it's about the same at 50% or 100%. 100% is just much brighter immediately in front of you.


I would actually recommend the MagicShine 808 though. It's a little cheaper and all my research showed the side by side comparisons the 808 actually throws light out a little father. It's just not as bright in the first 25 feet. Since I leave my 872 on 50% it wouldn't matter and I would get a little more distance.

http://www.amazon.com/MagicShine-MJ-808U-Bicycle-Improved-1100-Lumen/dp/B009GSLUR4/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1409954087&sr=8-3&keywords=magicshine+872

Both have an external battery pack and don't use a USB charger though. Which for some people is a problem. I don't mind strapping the battery to my top tube.

Edit to add: Neither of these has a flashing or pulse feature. They do have an adjustable brightness level though. 872 has last for roughly 2 hours for me at 100%. The power buttons illuminate to give you a rough estimate of battery level. After a 2 hour ride with it on 50% the entire time it will show that it has more then 50% left. They say it will last 3 hours at 100% but reviews I read said it last 2 1/2 at 100% then dropped its self down the 75% then 50 > so on until it completely died at 6 hours. I've not actually done that myself though.

Rear:

I use Light & Motion Vis 180 - This thing is ridiculously bright and I love it. Full 180 degrees of visibility from the amber lights. It's very expensive though for a taillight.

http://www.amazon.com/Light-Motion-Tail-Silver-Moon/dp/B00LH1W9AU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=undefined&sr=8-1&keywords=light+and+motion+180

My research pointed to Cygolite Hotshot 2W USB being the best bang for your buck. I would have bought this but my LBS didn't carry it and I needed something that night for riding so i got the Light and Motion.

http://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Hotshot-2-Watt-Rechargeable-Taillight/dp/B005DVA57Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409954733&sr=8-1&keywords=Cygolite+Hotshot+2W+USB


Hope this helps.

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've been good with a 450 lumen Cygolite on the front, and a Bontrager Flare R on the back.

But the Cygolite Hotshot Pro is a really good taillight too (guys in my group run them), so I'd recommend picking up a combo pack, like this one:

https://www.amazon.com/CYGOLITE-LIGHT-COMBO-METRO-HOTSHOT/dp/B07545T4Y9/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=cygolite+combo&qid=1550174357&s=gateway&sr=8-5

​

Also, I always run two taillights for redundancy, I've had my tail light stop working before, and I didn't know, so consider picking up a lower cost hotshot as well, like this:

https://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Hotshot-2-Watt-Rechargeable-Taillight/dp/B005DVA57Y/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=cygolite+hotshot&qid=1550174600&s=gateway&sr=8-2

• [Crank Brothers multi tool] (http://www.amazon.com/Crank-Brothers-Bicycle-19-Function-Silver/dp/B0012Q41HY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1418363910&sr=8-1&keywords=crank+brothers+multi+tool)
  
  
• [Topeak saddlebag] (http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Aero-Wedge-Buckle-Medium/dp/B000FIAU8O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1418364745&sr=8-1&keywords=topeak+saddle+bag)
  
  
• [Cygolite Metro 400 Headlight] (http://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Metro-400-Rechargeable-Headlight/dp/B00LXTOT6I/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1418364255&sr=8-1&keywords=cygolite+metro+400)
  
  
• [Cygolite Hotshot Taillight] (http://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Hotshot-2-Watt-Rechargeable-Taillight/dp/B005DVA57Y/ref=pd_bxgy_sg_text_y)
  
  
• [CatEye Wireless Bike Computer] (http://www.amazon.com/CatEye-Wireless-Bicycle-Computer-CC-VT220W/dp/B004RE783W/ref=sr_1_16?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1418364327&sr=1-16&keywords=cateye)
  
  
• [Finish Line Chain Lube] (http://www.amazon.com/Finish-Line-Bicycle-4-Ounce-Squeeze/dp/B002IDZXRM/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting)
  
  
• [Genuine Innovations CO2 Inflator] (http://www.amazon.com/Genuine-Innovations-G2628-Ultraflate-Inflator/dp/B002AGI1QW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1420015344&sr=8-1&keywords=innovations+co2+inflator)
  
  If you're looking to up your riding game, everything listed above will save you from any trouble you have on the road. Cycling computer is always neat to have too!
  
  Cygolite Metro 400 and the Hotshot are brilliant. The lights definitely pack a strong punch. I'll tell you right now, unless the lighting in your town sucks ass or you go off road riding, the metro 400 is a great light and you don't really need to go much higher than that.
  

I've used a Cygolite Hotshot for years now all-weather year-'round riding. The standard bracket is just the plastic clip one, there are some others available as additional purchases like a rack bracket (a must for any light I buy, personally). It's been through more storms than I can count, so, the water-sealing is fine. It's visible even in bright summer daylight, and at night I have to angle it down if riding with friends or they can't see very well when behind me. Recharges with micro USB. Great product, haven't been tempted by anything else since. http://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Hotshot-2-Watt-Rechargeable-Taillight/dp/B005DVA57Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1449153336&sr=8-1&keywords=cygolite+hotshot

http://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Hotshot-2-Watt-Rechargeable-Taillight/dp/B005DVA57Y

This is hands down the best rear light out there. There are three or four modes of flashing types and you're able to increase or decrease the tempo of each.

The light is so bright that the red light is visible on the ground behind you.

It's also rechargeable.

They have a mini version too, and it's just as powerful.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B005DVA57Y?pc_redir=1406372694&robot_redir=1
http://www.bike-discount.de/en/buy/ixon-iq-premium-led-139357?currency=5&delivery_country=191

Little bit more expensive. Same tail light. Better front light. You need a $3 adapter for the plug on the German headlight because it has European plugs.

Does that light work with the Cateye rack mount?

If not, I use a Cygolite Hotshot with the Cygolite rack mount which works really well. The Cygolite is great bang for your buck.

I just bought this Cygolite Metro 360 head light and this Cygolite Hotshot tail light a few days ago. They are well reviewed and seem blindingly bright when I look at them inside. Several different flash modes and are both USB rechargeable.

As for other products which can save your life, a cell phone and a credit/debit card will be useful if you're stranded somewhere. Wearing a Road ID will be helpful to emergency personnel if you're unable to communicate.

http://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B005DVA57Y/

I have that one, it's really bright, has a bunch of different blinking patterns, and the battery seems to last quite a while.

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.

You don't give a budgetary amount, so I'll just recommend what I use:

An Origin 8 Eyelet Stub mounted to the front of the rack and a Dinotte XML-3. The mount on the Dinotte can be turned 90 degrees, so you can mount it on the stub regardless of where you choose to position it.

I also found the MagicShine battery is a much less expensive battery for the Dinotte, requiring only a slight modification to the cord. I have a 3 ft extender that lets me tuck the battery away in my bag.

I get about 6-7 hrs run time on a given battery.

Eyelet stub.

I mount the light low with DIY shade so that oncoming cyclists don't see the light bulb.

http://i.imgur.com/fLAS3Vm.jpg

I have THIS on my bike. It's obnoxiously bright at its highest setting, and it'll do you well on your night rides on the greenway. I'd see reflective street signs hundreds of yards away light up from this thing. Forget about steal-proof accessories; stuff that you leave on your bike is going to get stolen. I always take my lights with me. It's a bit of a hassle having to install them when I return to my bike (takes less than a minute though), but it's the only way not to get them stolen!

I live in a neighborhood in central San Antonio too! I recently got this guy after my cheap academy set was not cutting it. It is amazing actually, slightly bulky as the battery is a second unit but its still easy to mount and I doubt you could find anything nearly as bright for the price.

$22. https://www.amazon.com/RioRand-Bicycle-HeadLight-Flashlight-Headlamp/dp/B006QQX3C4/

Have you looked at the direct-from-china MagicShine clones? There are quite a few variants out there ranging from "500" to "2300" lumen for not a whole helluva lot of money.

I hear the amazon linked one works pretty well zip-tied to a helmet. Buying 2 (maybe one from a different seller) and mounting one with the wide angle lens on the bars would be a cost effective way to light up everything in front of you.

This one?

For really cold environments this set up can be nice because you can keep your battery warm under your coat. Living in MN It happens that the coldest part of the year is also the darkest and batteries die out as they get cold.

y'know i used to have this same attitude, but looking back after my wreck at night due to low visibility from too weak a light and slightly harsh weather conditions, i'd probably still be out riding my bike right now. i was leaving work with a fenix ld20 strapped to my helmet set on the highest output mode (180 lumens). normally that worked pretty well at night, but there was a slight drizzle which impaired my vision just enough that i couldn't see the upcoming pothole. i hit that pothole traveling around 20mph and was very lucky i didn't wreck. both tires popped immediately and my rear wheel was knocked about a centimeter out of true. fast forward about two months later, after getting my wheel trued and tensioned, i'm riding home at night this time just around the block from my house. i'm carving back and forth in my lane and all of a sudden the bike fish-tails and i'm sent flying off into the oncoming lane and my bike slides down the road. very lucky there wasn't any traffic. i did not hit a pothole this time, but instead attribute this wheel failure to the previous wreck which weakened the wheel. i get up, brush myself off and inspect the damage. sure enough, the rear wheel tacoed, no broken spokes but several loose, and i have to walk home. i strongly feel that if i had invested in a better light prior to hitting that pothole, even if it were the 1000 lumen $40 light on amazon, i'd probably still be riding.

by the way, i did invest in that light on amazon, and it is killer. i was using it the night my wheel tacoed but there was obviously nothing that light could do to save me or the bike in that circumstance.

what i'm getting at is get yourself a damn bright light whether it's $40 or $200 as it may just save you from a ton of trouble down the road and quite possibly a hospital bill. these lights are designed to see and be seen, and damnit, that $40 light gets you seen by cars as well as lighting up the road all around you for a good distance.

/rant

edit: this post isn't directed just to you, but to everyone that rides a bike but doesn't feel the need to invest in a more expensive light that does more than just getting you noticed by cars. you never know when you may end up on a dark road. be prepared. expect the unexpected.

This and this.

I usually run x2 of these, cheap and very bright, with a wide angle diffuser on one.

Couple things to add for the shopping list: especially for the 3am part:

Safety Vest

Slap light for left ankle to identify your edge

Lights

About $25 for the above.

Rear mirror

Make sure the bike has the standard reflectors on the spokes, pedals, front and back as well.

Reflective tape if you are riding an all black or dark bike - wrap strips around your spokes, frame and seatpost

Some would say ALL THE ABOVE TOGETHER Is overkilling it and maybe it is all it takes is one semi-drunk who did a couple too many shots blasting down some rural road at 4am doing 90mph to end you.

Even just a glancing blow off the side of a big 4x4 mirror rig could fuck you up bad and NOW YOU'RE DOWN.

You're laying on the side (if you're lucky and didn't get hung up and dragged) of a rural road at 5am waiting for the next drunk to come along and finish the job.

This is a real concern.

Now if this happens and you are wearing dark clothes on a black bike with no reflectors they could end up hitting you before they ever see you especially when you add dark (limo) tinted windows + stereo blasting and subwoofers thumping.

Now add texting on the phone to the equation.

It's all over. You're roadkill.

You need to make yourself more than just a little visible. They need to see you from a fricken mile away. even if you are sprawled out in the street.

TIP: I use the slap light so they can see where the edge of me actually IS. I usually hang it on the left end of my handlebar - on my rearview mirror. Or on my left ankle so there is a light moving up and down along with pedal reflectors - that says 'dude on a bike up ahead'.

$30 is probably worth it..but I did go to a bike PGH event where they gave out free lights to everyone that attended. Maybe if you reach out to them they could hook you up?

Edit: found this one for under $10 on Amazon BV Bicycle Light Set Super Bright 5 LED Headlight, 3 LED Taillight, Quick-Release https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A6TBITM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_ArVywbN1SWFR6

If you're in a city with street lights and you're mostly concerned with being seen than seeing by your lights, almost any cheap lights will work. Here's something picked at random from amazon under $10:

https://www.amazon.com/BV-Bicycle-Headlight-Taillight-Quick-Release/dp/B00A6TBITM/

As something of a side note, blinky rear lights are fairly directional. If they're not pointed straight back they almost might as well not even be on. I routinely see people with tail lights mounted to helmets, clothing or just pointed downward while mounted on the seatpost and they are barely visible from more than 30 feet (but if aimed in the right general direction they're extremely bright).

Also, regarding hi vis vests that people are recommending, they really only work as a reflector. While they are decent to make you visible to cars behind you, they in no way replace having a headlight. Headlights are to make you visible for people who don't have their headlights pointed at you (ie those who are crossing your path). This is why many locales only require a headlight and a rear reflector after dark (but you should really have a rear light anyways).

> I've pulled all my reflectors off my bike, as they're ineffective pieces of crap.

The ones to the front and back are too small to be of much use, but spoke reflectors are the shit.

Talking about these: Link and Demo

Trinx KA2007 folding bike.

• I added some of this type of spoke reflector for a little more visibility since a lot of my riding is at night or evening.
  
  
• I got one of these bags for the rear rack, it's got the reflective stripes on the side and a strap to clip one of my rear lights onto.

https://www.amazon.com/Salzmann-Scotchlite-Spoke-Reflector-Bicycle/dp/B00DNG8DSY

I bought these.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DNG8DSY/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_F-vxDb6D8EEXB

http://www.amazon.com/Salzmann-Reflector-36-Scotchlite-Reflective/dp/B00DNG8DSY

In the process of kitting out (or identifying kit for when I have the money) for my new (first full sized) bike and have settled on Cat Eye Rapid X (50 lumens).

You can get more powerful ones ( Rapid X2 and X3) but I'm generally anti bright lights as they're often too dazzling or even hurt my eyes when on other biked - pet peeve). Anyway I ramble, they attach by rubber/stretchy plastic band and come with a larger one for seat tube and smaller one to attach to seat stays or rack or anywhere else you fancy inc. one would assume the ability to orient them outwards/side ways for side viability should you want to (though they've got v v wide angle glow anyway).

Reckon I'd get a few for rack down tubes or seat stays each side vertically and and one horizontally to attach to the rear hanging light plate on the end of the rack to maximise the [strikethrough]Akira Neo Tokyo 2019 motorbike look[/strikethrough] visability (and a couple of front ones on the forks to sit either side of a Busch and Muller Eyro mounted centrally on the fork above the front wheel).

Also these wheel reflectors are a cheap and cheerful fix that I'll do, good at catching car headlights as lower down on the bike where they're generally pointing:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00DNG8DSY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_6gZMDb3HDV559

https://youtu.be/_5xC7PI3dyI

Re: Cateye Rapid X, believe they were the first of their kind when they first came out quite a while back but the same/similar lights are sold by different brands. Cheap Chinese ebay jobs available too but not sure if the same or cheap lower quality copies, up to you if you want to risk.

Also going to get Tortec Mudguards that have a reflector strip which user reviews say is v good and helpful. Then some reflective rim tape to boot (and then potentially some 'diamond grade' reflective tape that's used on emergency vehicles to strategically place on points along the frame - yes I want my Neo Tokyo/Tron bicycle).

There's these, but they're a bit stupidly expensive IMHO.

https://road.cc/content/review/228444-flectr-zero-aero-wheel-reflectors

I just use these:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Salzmann-Scotchlite-Reflector-Bicycle-standard/dp/B00DNG8DSY/

Here you go. HIGHLY recommend. I bought this same pair two years ago, been using it almost daily and it's still going strong. It's bright, rechargeable, and has endured heavy rain with no problems. Detaches easily (but not accidentally) and doubles as a solid flashlight.

I purchased this combo for head/tail lights. I found out about it from The Sweethome and have no complaints.

For my cellphone, I picked up one of these. I never use the bottle opener, but I can say it holds just about any smartphone in a steady grip over just about any kind of terrain. My only complaint would be that it sometimes allows the phone to tap on the stem when riding over rough spots. If you mount it horizontally on the handlebars, you aren't going to have the same problem, I suppose. I would still buy it again.

I picked up one of these bells. Very cool, tiny, tough and loud.

If you ride with drop handlebars, I fond a set of cross levers to be quite a lifesaver when I am hanging out on the middle of the bar.

A portable pump (I want one of these). I guess CO2 works, but what if you have a slow leak, no spare and you forgot to cap the patch kit glue?

A small saddle bag with spare tube, patch kit, multi-tool and tire levers.

A rear rack (but never one attached to the seatpost, please) for different bags, baskets or objects I want to haul around with me. I usually leave it off because I ride more for pleasure than commuting these days.

A decent U-Lock and cable to lock it all up. If you can afford it, one of these seems to be popular, though I live in a smaller town that doesn't need quite the same level of security.

Nope, these are my lights: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00E1NQ696/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I think it's this one. It isn't $20 though. They're great for the price.

Anyone looking to start - imports from China have way lowered the barrier for entry. If you can find a group online that goes, do that or bring a friend, you don't want to get stuck out there without a buddy.

There's a lot of garbage out there too, I've tried several of the imports and found the batteries sorely lacking or the connectors shitty. I can vouch for this one. For bonus points, get this wide angle lens and put it on your bars, plus a normal one on your helmet so you can see where you're looking. If you can only have one, try to find a way to mount it to your helmet.

I have like 4 of these. They're super bright and battery lasts a long time. You can find them on eBay every now and then for $20.

Edit: A year ago I switched to a USB version of the light above. I got mine on eBay for $12, but can be found [here](
http://www.lightinthebox.com/zhishunjia-waterproof-3-mode-1xcree-xm-l2-u2-high-power-bike-lamp-900lm-usb-5v-gray-red_p3984844.html?currency=USD&litb_from=paid_adwords_shopping&sku=429_6917) for around the same price. I use it with a USB power bank, like this. I just put the battery pack in my frame bag. I can charge my phone and light my path at the same time if I want. It's really a great setup!

My setup.


Light, get 2: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GJZ015Y

Kit for helmet: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004QOVA00

Wide angle lens: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004WLCLQY

Put one on your helmet. Put the wide angle lens one on your bars, means when you turn it has less effect on what you can see.

I've had no problem with battery life, but my night rides do tend to be a bit shorter, in the 90 minute range. Use half strength during the climb, full strength on the down.

I generally have to ride kitted out because I can't be in the sun for very long. I find my entire kit very comfortable though more so for being outside. If its a quick trip it isn't worth the time to change. Any more then that and I'll be physically cooler, and more comfortable on longer rides. I can't be outside for too long because of vitiligo without covering up anyways.

I use cameras for multiple purposes. To document interactions, to document idiotic actions -- even mine. Their main purpose though is to have a record in case of an accident and for that purpose I want to be able to clearly identify the driver and license plate. This requires good resolution front and back. I'm tempted to just use two generic go pro style cameras but then I'll have to remember to turn them on, charge them, etc. I'd like one battery pack at most and maybe one switch.

I have a very bright front headlight similar to this that runs off of a battery pack. We have a total of 4 battery packs that we use over 2 different bicycles. The backlights I have are AAA powered and I keep a backup (lights and batteries). I currently switched lights and I have about 6 of the new ones and maybe 3 of the old ones. I also typically care 2 or 3 cheap "to be seen" emergency lights.

Best experience is having a really crappy day at work and taking all the frustration out on the way home crushing my record. I'm just too physically exhausted to be upset. Then, after I've relaxed I perk up and realize that I just crushed my previous best travel time.

My worst experiences excluding being hit or nearly hit would be engaging with idiots that yell at me. Normally I let it go but sometimes I won't because I'm tired of it and I'll catch up to yell at them. For me to have the desire and ability to do this I've got to be pretty pissed which means I'm potentially running into a really shitty situation blind. I never worry about it in the moment, but after the fact in reflection I feel pretty stupid even if I haven't had anybody go physically psychotic on me.

I don't worry about getting injured while flying in an air plane, riding a buss, driving a car, or letting a co-worker who thinks she is the female version of Andretti drive me around. To me cycling isn't any more dangerous then any of these activities. Some of them its actually less dangerous. I try not to let fear paralyze me. I read what I can to learn how to ride the safest I can. I'll position myself in such a way that I'm the safest I can be based on experts and their research.

I'm not sure what would make me more comfortable on a bike. Maybe a bluetooth speaker that gives me several mounting options and has a quick release retention system so I can take it with me. Currently I'm using this I've modified it to work with a velco strap on its rubber mounting. I mount it on the stem just before the drop bars. I'd prefer other mounting options, and better battery life. Currently it only works for about 4-5 hours.

This one I have - cheapish and pretty bright - Planet Bike Superflash bike tail light https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000KBEH1W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_J2p7BbMVMEARK

This one is a little more and twice as bright - NiteRider Solas 250 Tail Light Black, One Size https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DGGJGXJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_53p7BbTK9EEPW

This one is semi expensive but heavy duty. It's a bit on the big side too. I think it would work good on molle webbing. I have a tactical backpack myself and was thinking about picking it up. Blackburn Dayblazer 125 Tail Light Black, One Size https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DFRQNZL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_f5p7BbDTNVG7G

Edit : These all work well for me with my tactical backpack but depends one what your rocking

cygolite 350 worth every penny. You will BE SEEN and SEE everything. Don't skimp on lights, they could save your life one day.

this is a good rear light if you don't already have one.

It's a 2013 Motobecane Gran Premio. Steel frame with Shimano 105 parts on it. There will be some slight white scratches on the left side of the top tube.

Everything you see in the first photo was on the bike except for the camelbak bottles. This includes [a Satechi Bikemate Slim Case] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006N0T674/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1), a [Cosmos bike speaker] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005WO7ECG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1), an Avenir Big Mouth bag, a Mirrycle bell, a Planet Bike Super Flash, and two Topeak black plastic adjustable bottle cages.

The bike was stolen near Johnson and Wales university. I previously registered the bike and serial with the police in my hometown and I will be able to recover the serial number tomorrow.

Thanks in advance for keeping an eye out!

The current consensus over on /r/bicycling is a Nebo Redline + the Twofish mount. Thinking about hooking up that option myself because I keep having cycling specific lights crap out on me.

edit none of this shit is really BIFL, but the Nebo option is cheap enough that you won't get too upset if you somehow break it

TwoFish Lockblocks

I don't wear a helmet so I normally use the headstrap for cycling, but I also made good experiences with this double-strap-thingy on my old bike. I used it for a normal flashlight but I see no reason why it shouldn't work turned 90° with the Wizard Pro. Hope that helps.

I like the TwoFish LockBlocks for single cell lights.

I'm a fan of the TwoFish flashlight holder plus no-name but well reviewed flashlights:

https://www.amazon.com/TwoFish-9-Lockblocks-Flashlight-Holder/dp/B001CJXB5E

Yea. This is what I recommend also. I have a $10 mini flashlight with a rechargeable enloop batteries. I also use the the 2fish velcro gasket w/o problemos. So much cheaper and brighter than specific "bike lights"which are amazingly overpriced IMHO.
https://www.amazon.com/Portable-Handheld-Flashlight-Adjustable-Resistant/dp/B00R5VM3FM/ref=lp_12023816011_1_1?srs=12023816011&ie=UTF8&qid=1522192376&sr=8-1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001CJXB5E/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

You don't need to spend $80 on some USB chargable fancy BS.

You should get one of these: http://www.amazon.com/Two-Fish-Unlimited-Flashlite-Holder/dp/B001CJXB5E

I use one and it works great, plus your light is easily removable if you park in a less-than-safe neighborhood.

Get a flashlight mount, maybe this one will work

http://www.amazon.com/Two-Fish-Unlimited-Flashlite-Holder/dp/B001CJXB5E/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1349049136&sr=8-4&keywords=flashlight+mount+bike

then just find the brightest flashlight within your budget, really

I use this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001CJXB5E/ref=oh_details_o06_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

to mount this:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006K5C2EG/ref=oh_details_o08_s00_i01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

(with the keychain removed. then I reversed the clip and it makes it easy to clip onto a hatbrim or helmet visor, turning it into a headlamp of sorts.)

thanks! I used this stuff for the frame and lightweights reflector tape for the wheels.

The tape is super adhesive and reflective. Here is a picture without the flash.

For the wheels:

Lightweights for Wheels... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002KYFWQ6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

For my helmet

LiteMark Reflective Black Variety... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072Y1RDYX?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Vest

The 247 Viz Blaze Reflective Vest... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075RD1ZQZ?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Black reflective tape roll (they have all sorts of color though)

Lightweights Stealth Tape, 100-inch Roll, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001P3UR9U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_jHtpDbRBYNQVG

Ankle bands

Leg Shield Reflective Ankle Bands... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00L0H4GJ8?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Wrist bands

Reflective Wristbands (Pair) -... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0128J7U80?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

It is easier to answer a question if you link to the product

In terms of how well they stick I don't know as I don't own that particular product however you mention they are not reflective and appear grey?

I have 3M Scotchlite spoke reflectors and they are grey in normal light and don't appear to reflect much light as shown here:
http://i50.tinypic.com/e84r9k.jpg

but when a light is shown on them from eye level they appear very bright:
http://i47.tinypic.com/33w5bua.jpg

Try and look at the reflectors at while shining a flashlight on them and see how reflective they are. Also remember the reflectors work on light being reflected back so light has to be shone on them to work properly and they are to be used in conjunction with lights at night.

Sidewalk riding can be dangerous, no one is expecting you to be riding there and driveways can be around blind corners. Sometimes it's your only choice depending on where you live and the level of bike infrastructure

As far as reflective items go, check out these lightweights they work great on wheel spokes and are cheaper than a vest but still increase visibility.

If I'm only traveling to the park in my sneakers (fake ride):

• 1 Water Bottle - Insulated Camelback Podium
  
• Phone
  
• Rear Light - PDW Danger Zone
  
• Front Light - Urban 400
  
  If I'm wearing my kit/shoes (real ride) add:
  
  
• 2nd Bottle
  
• Zip lock bag with patches, spare tube, 2 levers
  
• Multi Tool - crankbrothers m10
  
• Hand Pump - Lezyne Road Drive
  
• Dry Bag for phone/wallet - This one, I think
  
• House Keys
  
• Spare Glasses (so I don't have to use my sunglasses if I'm caught out after dark.)
  
  If I'm going on a 4+ hr ride (long ride,) add:
  
  
• First Aid Kit - Pared-Down version of this
  
• Snack - Recently, I've enjoyed Shot Bloks

I can confirm that the Tech EOS kicks ass. Battery life is impressive considering how small it is (I've ridden every day for around an hour for the past month and a half and it's still going fine). Bright enough that I can avoid potholes.

Also, the PDW Danger Zone is an awesome tail light. I've used it with the Tech EOS and it's still kicking as well. It's a really bright fucking tail light, and it looks sweet.

I have this headlight and the mounting system for the light has worked fine. As for a taillight I have the PDW Danger Zone and I can't recommend it enough.

For the other stuff: go to your LBS.

This is my do everything bike, a 2015 Trek Crossrip Comp.

Performance-wise, it is stock, with the exception of the tires. I swapped out the Bontrager Hardcases that came with the bike and put on a pair of [Clement PDX cross tires] (http://clementcycling.com/pdx-clincher). There are lots of gravel trails around my area, and I wanted some grippier tires to handle them. They roll a little bit slower on pavement, but the difference off-road is incredible. This thing absolutely flies on gravel and dirt.

Some other additions include:

-[Ivation Bluetooth Speaker] (http://www.amazon.com/Ivation-Super-Portable-Rechargeable-Bluetooth-Speaker/dp/B00HVMIL1U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409072570&sr=8-1&keywords=bicycle+speaker)- I like listening to music while riding, but earbuds make it difficult to hear what's going on around me. This speaker is a great alternative. It attaches to the handlebars with a stretchy strap, and is very secure. It has an aux input and a micro SD card slot, but the Bluetooth feature is really nice since I don't have to worry about wires getting tangled or where to put my phone.

-[Portland Design Works Danger Zone Taillight] (http://www.amazon.com/Portland-Design-Works-Danger-Light/dp/B00435IPFK/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1409072793&sr=8-2&keywords=portland+design+works+radbot+1000)- So cars don't run me over at night. Mounting it is super easy, and the light is extremely bright. It also quickly unhooks so I can take it with me and not worry about it getting stolen.

-[Diamondback LED Headlight] (http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/product/index.jsp?productId=41624036&kw=diamondback+headlight&origkw=diamondback+headlight)- So I can see where I'm going at night, and so cars can see me. I haven't had a chance to use it yet, but it seems pretty bright, and the price was good.

-[Blackburn Frame Pump] (http://www.blackburndesign.com/pumps/mountain-air-anyvalve-mini-pump.html#.U_y_7twWxO4)- So I can inflate my tires when needed, and because I like the look of a frame pump.

This is my first bike that isn't from a box box store, and I absolutely love it so far. It's my commuter, my cruiser, my off-roader, and whatever else I need it to be. I highly recommend the Crossrip line to anyone that is interested in it.

Truth is, the best preparation you can do is to acclimate by riding in the cold weather - you'll get used to it.
Having said that, I use certain pieces of gear that really help me out. Here are a few key pieces...

Pogies - insulated bar mitt covers. The go over your handle bars and cut the wind, but are also insulated. You still wear a glove, but this is far better than just a glove or mitt.
Check this site out...
https://bikepacking.com/gear/pogies/

Next, you need to have good head covering.
I use OR Windstopper Balaclava
https://www.outdoorresearch.com/us/en/sonic-balaclava/p/2435420001006

Ski goggles are a must.

Wool tube scarf for your neck.

For your torso and chest, you need to layer:
Base layer - I choose merino wool. There are basically 3 thicknesses to choose from.
Wool keeps you warm even if you sweat, dries well, doesn't stink.

Next, insulating layer or layers.
Something warm like a shirt + Polartec jacket - again, 3 different thicknesses depending on you and how cold you get.
Long johns / fleece pants.

Last layer is a shell with at least a wind panel on the front. Gore Windstopper is my #1 choice, but I have many different jackets. I prefer jackets that have pit zips (zippers in the arm pits) so I can ventilate excess heat.

My cycling pants have a wind panel on the front to stop the wind.

Wool socks.
Darn Tough, a Vermont company, guarantees their socks for life - if they ever wear out, they will replace them for free.

Good boots, nothing too big. If you use a cycling shoe, there are insulated covers available for winter use or even winter cycling boots.

Whatever you do - don't let yourself sweat.
You need to find the balance point of being warm without sweating. If you sweat, you will become cold.

It all becomes an attempt at equilibrium - finding that comfortable warm spot without overheating & sweating, or allowing yourself to get cold.

Protect exposed skin especially your face, nose, ears, & cheeks.
Goggles keep your eyes warm, your lashes free from frost, and prevent your eyes from tearing. The polarised lenses help you see better.

As for your bike.
Studded tires - check out Schwalbe tires - actually may help, otherwise a winter tire with a winter rubber compound should do the trick.
Do you necessarily count on your knobby MTN bike tires doing a good job, the rubber may become too hard to properly grip the road or ice.

Lights...go with something detachable that uses a standard battery. Bring your light in to keep it warm.

I'm currently using:

Rear light: Portland Design Works Danger Zone Tail Light https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00435IPFK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_-uj5CbV3JHJA6

And a Planet Bike Blaze Front light X 2.

Www.PlanetBike.com

Keep your bike clean - wash the salt off regularly.
CLEAN AND LUBE YOUR CHAIN AND DRIVETRAIN.

At the end of winter, give your bike a deep cleaning.
Change your cables.
Undo your headset, crank, wheel hubs, clean the bearings and repack with new clean grease.
Tune your derailleurs.
Check your chain for stretch and replace if needed.
Check you rear derailleur hangar.
Spray done tube saver in your down tube and you're ready for summer.

Check out these sites for gear.

Www.MEC.ca

Www.Rei.com

Www.Bikepacking.com

on YouTube: GCN & GMBN

Hope the info helps.
Cheers,

#1 Get real lights--both headlight and taillight.

#2. Mounting a headlight low helps define potholes and other road issues. If your light is aligned with your eyes, say mounted on your head or high on the handlebars, you don't get any shadows. But a low mounted headlight--say fork-mounted--really casts some shadows and allows you to see those potholes.

Personally I like a low and a high headlight, not a low light only. There are too many situations when the low light is hidden from an oncoming vehicles. But low + high is a good combo.

LED lights are so good anymore there is not reason to not ride with something sufficiently bright. Like 1000 lumens or more up front and at least nearly that many in the back. I ride with relatively cheap CREE style led lights (something like this, though that's not a recommendation for that particular brand/style as I haven't tried it) that are like $20.

I've been running these taillights for a while, 3 watt CREE. That particular one isn't available any more but it gives you an idea of the wattage needed to be truly visible. Just for example, one of the 3 watt CREEs will very clearly outblast 3 of these. Also it has a battery that will actually last a while vs lights powered by AAAs to save a few grams--but last only a couple of rides at best.

Anyway, when you have enough lights on, front-, rear-, and side-visible, you'll be surprised how much room you get from motorists. I generally enjoy riding at night more than the day.

For battery tail light I'm a big fan of the Planet Bike's Turbo flasher. It is incredibly bright and the pattern reminds me of a aviation strobes.

https://www.amazon.com/Planet-Bike-Superflash-Turbo-Light/dp/B004U5PV5A?SubscriptionId=AKIAILSHYYTFIVPWUY6Q&tag=duckduckgo-ffab-20&linkCode=xm2&camp=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=B004U5PV5A

Before I switched to dynamo I could make it six months between battery changes.

yea, for my back light on the fuji (since its a beefy ass seat tube and cant put any lights on it at all) i put the mount for the light on the back tube that goes from the seatpost to dropouts (hope this makes sense idk the word for that particular tube). My particular light is this, shit you not the brightest rear light ever and the blinking is a weird oscillation so it catches drivers eyes better

ill take a picture on my phone and post it super quick

Täältä toinen takavalosuositus, käytössä viidettä vuotta (käytännössä pimeänä vuodenaikana, pyöräilen vuoden ympäri) ja hyvin on pelittänyt. Etuvalo on mallia "itse näyn muille", koska ajelen kaupunki/taajama-alueella, missä on aina sen verran valoa, ettei tehokkaammalle ole tarvetta.

Planet Bike Blinky Superflash Turbo 1W Tail Light https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004U5PV5A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_RtsRwbS5J40SZ

I have a similar light and it has a clamp and it detaches, I've clipped it to the bag for several years with no problem.

I use it for the blinker. People have said it's highly visible.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004U5PV5A/

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!

It's always suggested to get a new helmet. You don't know if it's been involved in a slight crash or had anything happen to it that would compromise its safety.

What kind of lights did you get??

I'd like to think I have some properly good lights and I've only spent ~$70 on them

Here's what I have: 2Watt Cygolite hotshot tail light ~$30 and another Cygolite headlight that can do short 600lm flashes, but has a few modes around 500lm or so, $50, but this is what I ordered last month for a friend who recently got into cycling, same 2W tail light & another headlight that's just a bump below the 550 I linked above for $60

Unless you've got some whopping mountain trail lights, I feel like $130 is a bit high, I'm all for supporting LBSs, but sometimes they get silly.

Anyways, stay safe & nice fucking deal on the bike.

The bike started life as a 2012 Motobecane Fantom Cross Pro, which came with some good components already. SRAM Rival partial group,
FSA crankset, and Mavic Aksium Race wheels. I've had good luck with this bike and it's got almost 2k miles on it, so I kept most of it, but not all.

Once I decided to make it my commuter bike, I started adding things.

For lights I picked up the Cygolite Hot shot rear light and use one of my MTB lights if needed for the front, a
Chinese knock-off CREE XM-L2 front light

For tires I went with the Panaracer RiBMo 700x32c based on feedback from users on here.

You can't go wrong with a Tubus Logo Evo Rear Rack and Ortlieb Back Roller Classics.


I wanted some extra gearing for those climbs along the way, so I went with the SRAM FORCE Rear Derailleur so I could run a SRAM PG-1050 11-32 Cassette.

Of course, I needed a new KMC X10SL chain for the new gear combo.

I picked up a new road bike and pulled the Ritchey Pro Streem Saddle and Ritchey Pro Biomax bars off of that bike and used them on my commuter, along with some new Lizard Skins DSP 3.2mm bar tape and some Soma Road Flares for added visibility.

For a little less weight and possible shock absorbtion, I threw in a Chinese knock off carbon seat post.

I also wanted something besides my regular riding shoes, so I opted for the Shimano Click'R PD-T700 pedals and
Shimano SH-CT40 Cycling Shoes
, which I love and highly recommend.

I also needed to adjust the fit so I picked up a Kalloy Uno 6 90mm stem because I've had great luck with them on other bikes.

And for added safety, I picked up two rolls of 3M Scotchcal Reflective Striping Tape in white and black, and added white stripes to the white frame and black stripes to the rims and the back of my helmet.

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

I would suggest multiple flashing red lights facing the rear so there is no question of your existence. People tend to drive fast while not paying attention on rural roads, your light display should immediately catch their eye.

Start with something like this

https://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Hotshot-2-Watt-Rechargeable-Taillight/dp/B005DVA57Y

I have had good success with Cygolite. For the head light I would get at least a 550 lumen one if not more for dark rural roads.

I'm primarily a cyclist actually and I first saw the material on a runner. I'm convinced it's saved me on the road when I'm riding in low-light conditions. Still, I also have been taking initiative to upgrade my bike lights and now ride with:

• Front light #1 - WindFire 3800Lm
  
• Front light #2 - Cygolite 850Lm
  
• Tail light - Cygolite Hotshot
  
  My tail light is a little weak and I need to double-up or get a brighter one, I think.
  
  Stay safe!

For the lazy:

Origin8 Eyelet Stub, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00629QAVG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Hy5Oyb5RRG7CY

Paul Comp makes something like that, as does Origin 8.

I got mine when I was living in the US and ordered it from Amazon. They may ship to Europe for you.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00629QAVG

These work pretty well for a better base for headlamp mounting

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00629QAVG?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

It looks a little sloppy with my current headlamp due to size but it works great.
https://imgur.com/a/mAgskJz

Another option going the same route is something like this

It's the little brother of the light KMart posted.

Get one for your head and one for your bars, that way you can turn your head to illuminate things that are not directly in front of you and level.

Also get a $5 wide angle lens for the light on your bars.

Cree headlight 17.99 Three light settings all of them bright as hell. You can get a diffuser lens for like 4 bucks that makes it a wide beam.

Edit: bad link. better one.

Thanks, I brought the light off amazon.

$16

http://www.amazon.com/Lumen-Bicycle-HeadLight-Flashlight-Headlamp/dp/B006QQX3C4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398201820&sr=8-1&keywords=lithium+headlight+bike

This is hands down the best front light for the money. It's so bright that people might mistake you for a motorcycle/car. Some people suggest monitoring the charging, and disconnecting once it's fully charged. Also, mount the light so it's dangling from the bottom, rather than on top on your handlebar.

http://www.amazon.com/Lumen-Bicycle-HeadLight-Flashlight-Headlamp/dp/B006QQX3C4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1397169543&sr=8-1&keywords=cree+bike+light

For the rear, I suggest this:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/150800979140?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649

Not on the body, but this is what I use on my almost nightly rides. The frame bag has two nice pockets that make gear easily accessible. Room for my wallet, phone, and repair kit too. I also have a powerful 1200 lumen light that lets me see what's happening farther ahead.
http://www.modernbike.com/itemgroup.asp?igpk=2126186169&TID=367&gclid=COza-7O2g7gCFZBaMgodVQUAtA
http://www.amazon.com/Lumen-Bicycle-HeadLight-Flashlight-Headlamp/dp/B006QQX3C4

NICE! I think I'll order that. The one I have is insufficient.


Found it for ~$4 cheaper Link

I'm gonna take some flak for this but I bought three of these guys ($20x3=$60) 1200 lumen is probably overrated a bit but not by too much. Maybe ~900:
http://www.amazon.com/RioRand-Bicycle-HeadLight-Flashlight-Headlamp/dp/B006QQX3C4


And then I bought one wide angle lens.
http://www.amazon.com/MagicShine-Gemini-Lights-Headlight-Includes/dp/B004WLCLQY

I am into my lights for $70ish bucks and have one unfocused beam, one trail sized focused beam and a spare light & battery. Nothing worse than getting stuck in the middle nowhere - in the dark.

So yeah, I took the cheap route. The bike specific brands do offer a stronger light but my light output matches or beats all of my riding buddies with brand name lights.

Worst thing I can say about the setup is that they are bound to the bars with a rubber strap. You have to tighten it down pretty well or it can slip on the bar. I didn't like helmet mounted because I blind my friends by looking at them when talking. So yeah probably not the most popular post but they work and they work well. They've lasted about 3 years already and no issues. One word of advice, some of the newer LEDs use a different battery connector so order yours at the same time so all of your lights & batteries are interchangeable.

Interesting, I'll try it. This 1200 lumen looks good for a main, would just have to come up with mounting hardware.

This is basically a knock off of the magicshine. Works just as well for a lot cheaper. I have a magicshine mj-808 and my friend has one of these. It is almost identical. This particular one claims 1200 lumens too. So it might be even brighter than the mj-808.

http://www.amazon.com/Lumen-Bicycle-HeadLight-Flashlight-Headlamp/dp/B006QQX3C4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1367445162&sr=8-1&keywords=magicshine

This! For the price, it is absolutely worth it. I've used it so many times in the dark and it is just so unbelievably bright.

Yep, most visible-light LEDs have almost no UV. However, use good LEDs, no cheap ones. You want "binned" LEDs; those having a specific color temperature. There's more of a guarantee that there will be no UV.

I like Cree XM-L T6 (T6 is the bin code--warm white.) XM-L LEDs are very efficient, and can get very, very bright if pushed to their max. current. At high currents they do get hot, and require heat sinks to avoid burning out. You can find XM-L flashlight/bike light/head lamps that are real cheap when ordered from China. Wire the battery terminals up to a wall adapter, and they' can be pretty decent lamps. IKEA has some cheap-ish ($10,) but less-bright LED desk lamps. Right now I'm using 4 of those for my emulsion work.

Really frickin' bright bike light...

1200 lumens, $23: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006QQX3C4/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

You can buy a mount for your helmet for an additional $12.

I'd also recommend going with 2 lights, one for the bars, one for the helmet -- they're not always pointed in the same directions.

Have fun! Darkness makes old trails new again.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006QQX3C4/ref=oh_details_o03_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I will guarantee you that you can't get a better deal on a light. I've been using this to commute for the last 2 months and was blown away.

I think you should go into lights a little more. Many people make the mistake of just grabbing the cheapest lights, which aren't bright enough to help you actually see or stand out enough that motorists see you.

Most rear lights are fine, it is usually front lights that I find inadequate. I recommend this http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B006QQX3C4/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1368717055&sr=8-2&pi=SL75 but it does have a small battery you must find room to mount and on the brightest setting only lasts a few hours. If you keep it charged between commutes, it is perfect, though. I can clearly see the road and cars can clearly see my light. Before, I was using a 1-Watt AA battery powered one and it was ok, but I had a lot of close calls because motorists still couldn't see me until I was right on top of them. If you don't want to deal with mounting a battery and keeping it charged, I recommend using nothing weaker than a 1-Watt, but more will be better and however much you spend, it will be cheaper than a hospital bill.

I just got a Cree bike light to mount to my handlebar. I already have a Magicshine mounted on my helmet.

I'm surprised that the Cree is much brighter than my Magicshine which cost double the price, which still isn't much for good lights. I just ran the Cree at the lowest light setting so it blended better with my other light.

I just doubt that flashlights like the one shown in the picture here are bright compared to a real bike light. Plus, the battery lasts 3 hours which is more than enough time to cover 20mi on most trails.

How do I fit both my Nite Ize Handleband phone mount and my cheap bike light on my drop bars? The light can't go past the bar tape, so it's too close to the stem. When I mount the phone mount on my stem, my phone will hit the light.

EDIT: I ended up putting the phone mount on the top bar.

I'm cheap, but I just ordered these for myself. I had them a while back but lost them in a move over the summer and haven't needed them yet this year.

Just a front and back lights. Something like

http://www.amazon.com/BV-Bicycle-Headlight-Taillight-Quick-Release/dp/B00A6TBITM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1380767085&sr=8-1&keywords=bike+lights

or

http://www.amazon.com/CatEye-Head-Light-Combo-Black/dp/B0041D5ACA/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1380767085&sr=8-15&keywords=bike+lights

edit: Second one is probably too expensive, but just something cheap and cheerful like that

I bought my first bike in years to go to school to save on bus fare. I bought a pretty cheap bike, a Supercycle Nitro XT http://i.imgur.com/0UNKQ96.jpg (not my bike in the picture, just a picture I found online. I didn't want the cheapest bike there but I definitely had a budget lower than $200, it was only $169.99. I mean it does get the job done but it still doesn't feel great and I don't know if I want to replace that soon or not. I've owned this bike now for 5 months, it's starting to rust (I don't know if I should've done something to prevent that) and even doe I try pump the tires weekly, try to clean dirt, leaves and snow off of it, the bike still feels like it's dying fast.

If I weigh 250~ pounds and I'm riding for distances no longer than 20 minutes in the city (3km~ but with a lot of traffic lights) multiple times a day 5 times a day, what would be a good bike to have for that? What kind of prices would I be looking at? Realistically I know bike's can run for multiple hundreds of dollars and I'm more inclined to buy something more expensive this time. Should I even replace my old bike? Planning on perhaps some time in the summer to buy a nicer one. Should I be looking at road bikes? Mountain bikes? Something else?

My current bike does kind of feel like it's dying even after owning it for only 5 months. What kind of maintenance should I be doing on my bike?

Should I be riding on sidewalks or roads? I know roads are probably safer because I'll be more visible by cars but on my commute there aren't many pedestrians on the sidewalk and there are no bike lanes. Also I don't have to go into traffic too much anyways.

Is there anything I should be buying? I.e. a bike light for riding at night? Maybe sunglasses if I'm riding in the morning? A helmet?

Recently my bike fell over in my balcony because it was a windy day and the light broke off the little handle that it clips into. The light itself is fully intact but the clip itself is the only thing that broke. I've tried to fix it but I can't, is there any way to fix this? This was the light I bought https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00A6TBITM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I feel like my brakes are a lot weaker than they used to be. Maybe I've just been riding faster but I used to be able to stop on a dime by only using my rear brake now if I use only the rear I'll slide for half a second.

My bike's beginning to rust a bunch. The chain, the pedals, the screws, and the bike is only 5 months old. Should I be leaving it downstairs outside where it'll get hit by rain and snow or should I be bringing it up to my balcony and maybe putting a tarp over it or something?

On cold days and nights where the weather gets below freezing, should I have some kind of facemask or hat? I've got a pair of gloves but they're cheap and ripped from work, should I buy a pair exclusively for riding my bike?

Is there any good rule of thumb to follow on what gears I've got my bike on? I've got a cheap mountain bike that I ride on the sidewalk and I weigh 250~ pounds and I typically keep my left gear on the highest setting and my right gear on 3/7 default, changing depending on up/downhill. Is it just preference?

Is this sufficient? https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00A6TBITM

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A6TBITM/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I would recommend this one. I was hesitant in buying it because it sounded too good to be true, 2800 lumens for $30?! But it actually is pretty fucking bright. I have the Light and Motion 700 and I could honestly say that the Amazon light is brighter.

The only downside is that it has an external battery pack has cheap Velcro straps. If you're really interested in it I could post up a test video of it at night.

I went a similar route and have had plenty of success. I picked up these two:

Helmet - https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00C2MHNJK/
Helmet mount - https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B004QOVA00
bars - https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00BJCDH3K

Here's a video with me just using the helmet light. My friend was using my bar light on medium power:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9sL3s3XkONQ

I think we were out there for 3 hours and I made it through just fine. I would drop the power to its lowest setting for any sustained climbs and then power up when things went downhill.

Yep, any bike shop will have a selection of headlights for bicycles. They clamp on the handlebars, generally. The cheaper ones are powered with AA batteries and some have a rechargeable battery pack. If you go with the AAs, it'll be worth investing in Eneloop rechargeable batteries.

If you have a basket on the front of your bike, it may obscure the light. Some people will ziptie a short piece of PVC to the front of the basket and then mount the light to that. Minoura also makes a basket clamp but they're hard to find in the US for some reason.

When I ride at night I use two headlights - an AA powered one that flashes, and this thing which uses a rechargeable battery back. It's insanely bright.

I haven't ridden through Logan Heights recently but my recollection is that it's pretty bikeable and downtown is an easy ride from there.

FYI this light is amazing, light and small for the money, I wouldn't rate it over 2k lumens but, thats plenty

SecurityIng® 4 Modes Waterproof 2800 Lumens Cree XM-L U2 LED Bicycl... http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00C2MHNJK/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_zstktb0TH90M6

I can help, I was just in the same situation and got this $20 light from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/SecurityIng-Waterproof-Lighting-Headlight-Rechargeable/dp/B00C2MHNJK

It's got a long enough battery life for evening rides (I tested 3hrs on full brightness under ideal conditions)
It's bright enough alone, but I'm probably gonna get a second to mount on the bars for redundancy's sake. It appears pretty sturdy but quality is still a gamble given how cheap it is. I'm not too worried, I'm a diy person and don't mind fixing things that go wrong, just all as long as I'm prepared with a backup in case something goes wrong on a ride.

Ahh, that looks like a nice one. I've got two that I switch between.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00C2MHNJK/ref=sxts3?ie=UTF8&qid=1474239773&sr=3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65

https://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Metro-550-USB-Light/dp/B00LXTORC4

I need to start taking both with, just in case something happens to one of them.

I've had this light for 6 months and like it for mostly XC stuff

Grab a pack of these https://www.amazon.com/Salzmann-Scotchlite-Spoke-Reflector-Bicycle/dp/B00DNG8DSY

These invisible during the day, but super bright at night. Combine them with some reflective tape on the frame, bright lights, maybe some tyres with reflective sidewalls when the time comes to change them, plus bright clothes and you're super safe!

Half my commute is after dark. I like putting a couple 3M reflective thingies on my spokes for side visibility and I have lights on the front and back of the helmet to make sure I'm seen over the top of cars.

The helmet light is especially nice for aiming right at cars waiting at side streets to make sure they see me. I've stopped cars in the act of pulling out in front of me several times by hitting them with the beam from my helmet light. I use an LED flashlight.

This is another option. I use these spoke reflectors . My rims also have reflective tape.

That's pretty much how I started my 2 mile commute in 2015. I went reading and bought the Wirecutter's reccommendation at the time, a Trek 7.2 (though I did go for the 2014 7.4 Disc, since my shop had it on a good sale). I added fenders and a kickstand immediately, grabbed a cheap (but safe) Wal-Mart helmet and lights, and started riding when the weather was decent. As I needed them, I added elastic, reflective ankle bands to keep my jeans out of the chain, got a set of decent gloves for cooler weather, a rear rack and expandable trunk bag, upgraded my lights, and bought a cheap bike computer from Aldi.
 
After a few years, I had a better idea of what I really wanted, so last fall I sold the hybrid and picked up a gravel bike to get off the 50mph highway and onto the gravel shoulder and replaced my helmet with a more comfortable and better ventilated one. I moved over the rear rack, bought new, larger fenders and a kickstand, but didn't bother with the computer and just got a handlebar phone mount since I track everything on Strava anyways.
 
Of course I don't NEED all of this to bike commute, but it makes it easier/more comforable/etc. to do so. The only thing I've regretted is the fancy gloves: they work just fine, but I could have spent half the money and gotten something just as well suited to my needs. Thankfully I'm in an area with basically no bike theft, so I just use a cheap cable lock on the rare times I even bother to lock it up.

Almost looks like this.

I use one of these, usually on medium, which would be about 500 or 600 lumens, and aim it about 15-20ft ahead of the bike. It's got a tight beam pattern, and doesn't blind other riders.

edit: most of what everyone else says is dead on. Please don't be that ass with the flasher (every headlight that I've ever looked at puts out maximum lumens on flashing mode, and will blind other riders.) Point them where you want to see in order to avoid obstacles - not at the sky or straight ahead. I have a long history of doing endurance mountain bike races, so if you ever want to discuss real lights for seeing in the dark (race speeds! AT NIGHT! IN THE WOODS!) Let me know.

https://www.amazon.com/Bright-Eyes-Rechargeable-Headlight-taillight/dp/B00GJZ015Y/

I've had one of these for 1.5 years and it works great. I pair it with another headlight on my helmet and it's plenty for riding singletrack at night on my MTB.

I just ordered this bright eyes one:
http://www.amazon.com/Bright-Eyes-Rechargeable-Headlight-taillight/dp/B00GJZ015Y?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

A guy I work with has one and loves it. The bright eyes brand is supposed to have much better warranty and support than other similar knockoff brands. The battery on it is supposed to be better as well.

Only thing is he said you probably need a diffuser as the beam is pretty narrow as it. His came with a diffuser, even though the listing doesn't say it does. I'm waiting for mine to be delivered before I order one.

https://www.amazon.com/Bright-Eyes-Rechargeable-Headlight-taillight/dp/B00GJZ015Y/ref=pd_sbs_468_5?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00GJZ015Y&pd_rd_r=HJTEYFZFRC1AKMFZFA5J&pd_rd_w=fDn7J&pd_rd_wg=pac6k&psc=1&refRID=HJTEYFZFRC1AKMFZFA5J
and
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LXTORC4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 for my helmet

These get really good reviews from friends of mine who own them, I am planning to get a couple myself soon.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00GJZ015Y/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1464648347&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=bright+eyes+bicycle+light&dpPl=1&dpID=515uFVbOheL&ref=plSrch

I like these ones from Amazon if you are going to go this route:
Bright Eyes

Basically the same LED and similar housing, but better QC, and much better attention to detail.

Everything from the packaging, to the waterproofing of the housing, to the included accessories, are worlds better than a similar cheap Chinese one I bought off I ebay. Plus, I feel much more confident with the battery. Some of those Chinese versions have had reports of the batteries catching fire while charging.

Also, it's Prime so you don't need to wait for it to ship from China, you can return it without hassle if you don't like it, it comes with a FREE tail light that is really nice, and it just has the overall appearance of a product that somebody actually cares about.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00GJZ015Y/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1415627423&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40

I have a rechargeable light with battery pack from Amazon. At first hated the bulky battery but damn do I love this light, I think they have a new version note too.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00GJZ015Y/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1481961960&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=bright+eyes+bike+light&dpPl=1&dpID=51SmEyvHJbL&ref=plSrch

I'd look into a Blitzu tail light and a CygoLite Metro at whatever pricepoint you'd prefer.

What the other commenters linked or talked about work fine, they're both more expensive options and comically weaker than the lights I just linked. Only downside to the Blitzu tail lights is that they're all soft-mounted with either velcro or silicone. I have never had one fall off while riding, though. I had one stolen awhile ago so I bought the 180 lumen iteration and saved ~18-20$ over buying a 150 lumen version of the hotshot.

They CygoLite Metro, after doing price/review comparisons on Amazon just doesn't really have any rivals outside of maybe Blitzu's Gator series (it's waterproof and cheaper, but not as many lumens).

If you have any questions let me know!

This guy https://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Metro-550-USB-Light/dp/B00LXTORC4

My headlamp is Cygolite Metro 500. Bright as can be, USB rechargeable, all weather. I'll have to check my tail light next time I ride.

Looking for light for bicycle commuting

Cygolite Metro 550

I think I will stick with the Lezyne Strip for my rear.
I'm considering these for the front though:

https://www.amazon.com/Dash-Pro-450-Rechargeable-Headlight/dp/B013FIYLTE/ref=sr_1_7?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1479055162&sr=1-7&keywords=cygolite

https://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Metro-550-USB-Light/dp/B00LXTORC4/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1479055162&sr=1-1&keywords=cygolite

Not sure the Lezyne 400xl Micro Drive will light up the streets enough and a lot of people are recommending Cygolite so must be good brand.

+1 to both points above. I got the 550 usb-rechargable cygolite in 2015 and it's been going strong ever since:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LXTORC4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

def strong enough to see and be seen in reasonable conditions. Pretty much anything except midnight fog single tracking :)

It is not. Here is the section of road I am referring to

North of there it is wide enough. I do wear visible clothing, here is a picture of the jacket I was wearing. I have lights on my bike. It is not "practicable" to encourage unsafe lane splitting and passing.

Non-mobile: this combo

^That's ^why ^I'm ^here, ^I ^don't ^judge ^you. ^PM ^/u/xl0 ^if ^I'm ^causing ^any ^trouble. ^WUT?

I have a Cygolite Metro 400 that I got as a bundle with a Cygolite Hotshot taillight on Amazon. They’re excellent. Used them regularly for three years and still going strong.

The bundle is about $50 here.

They have even brighter versions available too. the newest bundle is the Metro 700 + Hotshot and goes for about $100. The 400 is bright enough for me and I mostly use the medium setting. The taillight might be the brightest one I’ve ever seen.

I also use lights during the daytime as well. The Cygolite Hotshot, mentioned in this thread already, got it in this combo

Yes it is!

It is from a company called Bright Eyes and I purchased the 1600 Lumens version.

I have this one. But I want one that throws light in a condensed beam like the one in the photo!

I use this on my handlebars:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00X90ZYJ0/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

​

and this on my helmet:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01IHIMJRS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1

​

The Shenkey is great and you could honestly just get two for helmet/handlebars

No problem!

Bike cellphone holder - Aduro® U-GRIP PLUS https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00R6RSCV4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_BUTKxbB1T1BBC

Bike light - Super Bright USB Rechargeable Bike Light - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014QEWX2I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_YVTKxb3ZPCT1E

Anker PowerCore+ 20100 USB-C/Type-C Ultra-High-Capacity Premium External Battery/Portable Charger/Power Bank (6A Output, PowerIQ & VoltageBoost) for Apple MacBook, iPhone, iPad, Samsung & more https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014ZO46LK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_4WTKxb81MMH6M

Bluetooth Headphones Wireless Sports 4.1 Bluetooth Headset Earbuds Ansion Lightweight HD Stereo Earphones Noise Cancelling Headphones W/Mic In-Ear Sweatproof Earpiece HandsFree for Smartphones-Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01ERWERAK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_QXTKxb89ZQSRN

https://www.amazon.com/BLITZU-Rechargeable-Powerful-Headlight-Flashlight/dp/B014QEWX2I/ref=sxin_2_osp20-8f6e5b09_cov?ascsubtag=8f6e5b09-2d83-4346-b8bf-efeb805968fd&creativeASIN=B014QEWX2I&cv_ct_id=amzn1.osp.8f6e5b09-2d83-4346-b8bf-efeb805968fd&cv_ct_pg=search&cv_ct_wn=osp-search&keywords=bicycle+light&linkCode=oas&pd_rd_i=B014QEWX2I&pd_rd_r=4bfc65dc-7b6f-4f4e-99f1-3f3d9e806a08&pd_rd_w=y4s8h&pd_rd_wg=sya1h&pf_rd_p=caff9d8f-b168-49ec-abab-fc9b7b84cd0f&pf_rd_r=99SZ1YV5A13HM7HNK509&qid=1565989669&s=gateway&sprefix=bicycle&tag=bestcont06-20

I love this set up

Was looking at either https://www.amazon.com/Blitzu-Rechargeable-POWERFUL-Headlight-Flashlight/dp/B014QEWX2I/

or

https://www.amazon.com/Bike-Lights-Front-Back-Rechargeable/dp/B071VD7JJN/

maybe I'll order both and see which ones I like better! Our 1st and 3rd shift cops don't give a flying falaffle what's on my bike.

I've had a good experience with the Blitzu rechargable from Amazon so far. 320 lumen is plenty for seeing in front of you and the rechargable aspect is so much better than battery powered.

I was very pleased with [these guys!] (https://www.amazon.com/Dash-350-Micro-30-Combo/dp/B013FIYP8G/ref=sr_1_7?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1481479796&sr=1-7&keywords=cygolight)

if you want something cheaper I could suggest front and [rear] (https://www.amazon.com/Blitzu-Rechargeable-Intensity-Accessories-Flashlight/dp/B015IEJ0GC/ref=sr_1_18?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1481479840&sr=1-18&keywords=bike+light)

Are you looking to wire into the scooter or attach a separate circuit? I have been looking at adding lights to my GXL and I think that you have a few options:

• (Easy) Grab a rechargeable light like this one I personally use and mount it on the stem or handlebar using the shipped mount or some zip ties
  
• (Medium) Grab a 5V/1A portable battery back with some 2000 mAh - mount that on the stem of the scooter and connect a USB-powered light, such as this LED strip which you could further display on the deck, stem, and handlebars!
  
• (Hard) Design an Arduino-based system to power and regulate 12V lights designed for automotive use... have fun with that!

I ride with two whites in the front, and one red in the back. One front is always on, the other is on blink mode. Tail light is on blink mode. I use amazon lights listed below. Works great for me. I also carry a battery pack daily for my cellphone and other stuff anyway, so I just make sure to carry the usb cables with me so I can charge these lights in my backpack whenever I'm off the bike if I forget.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014QEWX2I/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N7S3UMP/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I like these:
https://www.amazon.com/Blitzu-Rechargeable-Intensity-Accessories-Flashlight/dp/B015IEJ0GC

They are USB rechargeable a decent form factor, moderately water resistant and bright enough to be seen. They make a front and a rear. I have a set on each of my bikes. They are long and narrow and you can change the orientation by 90 degrees so you can put it in line with your handlebars or turn it 90 to be in line with your seat post so they blend well in daylight.

Some lights and a helmet are top on my list. Any recommendations on lights? I've got Prime so Amazon makes sense to get something quick and likely cheaper than a local shop. This is what I'm leaning towards. Areas I'd ride at night are pretty visible, so definitely just need something to alert surrounding cars.

Rear light

Front light

Blitzu Cyborg https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015IEJ0GC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_5wNFAb1J15G62

You don't need to spend much on the bike frame itself, but you will need a light for the front, one for the back, a few tools to help you change your own tires and tubes (look into them, not expensive), patch them, et cetera. It sounds daunting but it really isn't, and it's fun knowing you have control over your thing. Like with a computer when you build one.

Cyclists in Boston chain their bikes up to lamps and signs (trees I think are illegal in some cities, so I don't), and bike racks of course. There's the threat of theft though I never experienced it. I always leave my bike in a visible area on the street, so that if someone were to try anything they'd be in sight of a camera or something nearby. Or unfortunately, target other bikes (which sounds bad since by taking up front realty, others can't chain there, but that's just how it is).

Sure thing.

1. I have mid-range USB rechargeable lights: Headlight. Tail light. I will say that the headlight doesn't fit perfectly on the L Train's bars due to the bend in them. But it's plenty bright and lasts a long time. I had it on my old bike and just kept it. I also added Priority full fenders and front basket to make it more useful to me as a commuter. Both were tedious to install (like most fenders and some baskets) but are very solid and haven't given me any issues so far. Here's a link to a picture I posted the first day I rode it to work.
   
   ​
   
   
2. I don't need any more gears. The seven are plenty for my rides in Chicago. If I lived in San Fran or Seattle, I'd probably want more lol. In my mind, a parking garage ramp is pretty steep, I wouldn't want to regularly climb hills like that with this bike. I know some people do though, more power to them. I can easily maintain speed while going up overpasses around here though.
   
   ​
   
   
3. What I meant by 'spinning out' is that I could pedal faster than the bike was going. Basically, I couldn't speed up anymore, even in 7th. Again, that's only done the one grade on my commute and at that point, I'd guess that I'm probably going about 25-27 mph. No need to go any faster in my mind. On flat ground, I'm not strong enough to maintain top speed in 7th gear for long at all. I usually max out in 5th while commuting through the city.

I have the older version of this light.

It has seen over 7,000 miles of use, all sorts of weather conditions , and is two and a half years old now. It' still working although the USB port cover came off and the charging cable needs to put it and wiggled to get it to charge so I'm not expecting to get much longer out of it.

For the $15 I paid, it's been great value for money.

Here! https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B015IEJ0GC/ref=ya_aw_od_pi?ie=UTF8&psc=1

these bad boys! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015IEJ0GC/ref=s9_acsd_top_hd_bw_b2aF2gd_c_x_w?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-4&pf_rd_r=8H99BVX2Q3WSATVFTJW9&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=d38a9968-bfb0-56d9-b053-93ceabef104b&pf_rd_i=2367799011

Seat Post

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015IEJ0GC?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00

On the Pannier i am not sure of the brand. I got it awhile ago. Ill check.

My rear light of choice has a very fast blink rate--seizure fast--so the problem of it being off half the time isn't a problem.

This one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015IEJ0GC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Has two blink settings, one of which is disco-fast. There'd be no way to look my direction only when it was between blinks. In fact, if you could look at a rider only when a blinking light was off, I'd call that 'pulsing' and not blinking. I'm also not sold on the idea that it will cause a problematic distraction. The point of a blinking light is to distract--to distract that driver away from their phone call, wandering mind, etc., and get their attention on you.

I personally haven't had a problem when I've been driving or riding and seen rapidly blinking lights--and I notice them faster.

[SELL]
Meepo 1.5 (less than 100 miles), comes with:

[ShredLights]
(https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075KWYZZY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1) Costed $44.99

Nose and tail guard Costed $13.99

[Red tail light] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015IEJ0GC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1) Costed $18.37

[Longboard Tool] (https://i.imgur.com/adtDPzF.jpg)

[Extra trucks and screws from the recall] (https://i.imgur.com/MAcuYoi.jpg)

[Remote (no wrist strap, sorry)] (https://i.imgur.com/Wao1vfJ.jpg)

[Charger] (https://i.imgur.com/yolnbbV.jpg)

[Wall mount + 4 screws] (https://i.imgur.com/8yOyrHq.jpg)

I'm in the Bay Area (Mountain View). $450 OBO

I have no idea how many lumens my lights are, which probably means they aren't bright enough. It didn't even occur to me to check. What would you recommend?

My current lights are these, which do have a flashing setting, but I can't find anything definite about how strong they are.

https://www.amazon.com/Ascher-Rechargeable-Headlight-Resistant-Included/dp/B01EUQ7ZQG/ref=zg_bs_2367799011_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=H7160PBFX2MSM9R5HSX1

I use two front lights and one rear light. I'm in an urban area so everything is relatively well lit and the lights are more so that people see me and not for me to light up the ground. The lights are lezyne zecto for the front and back pair, and then a cygolite metro. They are both easy to take on and off if I'm going to park the bike outside for lunch. They have a mode where some of the lights blink and some of them stay on all the time. The cygolite uses the old style usb charger and it will wobble around when mounted so I'm looking for a replacement. I think the new ones work differently. Also happy with these as spares https://www.amazon.com/Bicycle-Ascher-Rechargeable-Lithium-Included/dp/B01EUQ7ZQG but it is annoying that the power button on the back light doesn't face up.

Get one of those latex Blinky sets - one red one white, to be seen, and then get a cheapo mount and flashlight off Amazon.

Blinkies, that can attach easily to any bike frame tubes, clothing item with a loop like belt, backpack, or helmet for an higher-up light: two white two red, $9
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L773R9A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_mRYvDbDW4QGTA

Parallel / Perpendicular adjustable light mount: $10
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0761RX64G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_9SYvDbQ8MKCGG

2 pack 500+ lumen lights, metal bodies, AAA Batts: $17
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072WHQFJ7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_dUYvDbCB8E8VA

There you go - lights to be seen for everywhere, your bike, your backpack, your helmet, and lights to see the road in front of you, that can be quickly removed and taken with you.

I wouldn’t worry too much about the light coming with a bike mount, you can always get one separately. I have an OLight universal mount that works pretty well. Though I use it for my dog leash and strapped in a Wizard.

And now that I’m talking about it I realize Armytek makes a bike mount of their own, and the Wizard is on sale. The price is roughly in your budget after currency conversion, and they do ship worldwide.

I’m not sure if it’s the best choice as a specifically bike mounted light. But if you want a right angle, it’s hard to go wrong with a Wizard.

I use this with this. . One of the functions is if you press the power button twice, is enables a flashing strobe mode that is really decent. The 18650 battery gets really good battery life. Hope that helps.

I bought this flashlight mount from amazon and I attached my high power flashlight to it. You can pickup a good flashlight for like 40 bucks on amazon.


https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0761RX64G/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Kinda spendy at $75. I've been using the $30 Planet Bike Superflash Turbo for a few years now. Runs on AAA batteries.

If you like that, check this out. http://www.amazon.com/Bright-Eyes-Rechargeable-Lumen-Headlight/dp/B00GJZ015Y/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1427172066&sr=1-1&keywords=bright+eyes+light

Bright eyes:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00GJZ015Y/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1451945540&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=bright+eyes+bike+light&dpPl=1&dpID=51bCrIX%2BKUL&ref=plSrch
This is mine. Came with decent rear light too. Very bright but has large rechargeable battery. Came with Velcro bag for battery mounting.

Use this: https://www.amazon.com/Blitzu-Rechargeable-POWERFUL-Headlight-Flashlight/dp/B014QEWX2I/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1510254190&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=bike+light&psc=1

Easy to attach, turn on while riding and is rechargable.