Biking at night can be a thrilling and invigorating experience, but it’s important to stay safe by ensuring your bike lights are turned on.
Properly functioning lights make it easier for you to see the road ahead and help drivers and other cyclists to see you.
Turning on your bike lights is a simple task that can prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road.
In this article, BSXInsight will provide a step-by-step guide on how to turn on bike lights, whether you’re using traditional bike lights or more modern LED lights.
Types of Bicycle Lights
Bicycle lights are an essential accessory for anyone who rides a bike, whether it’s for daily commuting or recreational cycling.
They not only improve visibility but also increase safety by making the rider more visible to others on the road. There are several types of bicycle lights available, each designed for a specific purpose.
High-output lighting systems
High-output lighting systems are perfect for off-road biking or any other low-light outdoor activity. These lights are designed to provide maximum illumination in the darkest conditions.
They usually feature multiple LED bulbs and a powerful battery that can last for hours on a single charge.
Some high-output lighting systems even come with remote control, allowing you to adjust the brightness and direction of the light without stopping.
High-output lighting systems are generally mounted on the handlebars and helmet. They provide exceptional brightness and beam width, making it easier for you to see the trail ahead.
They are perfect for night-time mountain biking or other outdoor adventures that require maximum visibility.
Front, side, and rear safety lights
Front, side, and rear safety lights are essential for any cyclist riding in low-light conditions, such as dawn, dusk, or night. These lights are designed to increase your visibility to other road users.
Front lights are typically mounted on the handlebars, while rear lights are mounted on the seat post or bike rack. Side lights can be mounted on the frame, wheel spokes, or handlebars.
Front safety lights usually have a white LED bulb and provide a focused beam of light that illuminates the road ahead.
Rear safety lights have a red LED bulb and are designed to alert motorists to your presence. Some rear lights even come with a flashing mode that makes you more visible in low-light conditions.
Side lights are becoming increasingly popular among cyclists as they provide additional visibility from all angles. They can be mounted on the frame or wheels and come in a range of colors and designs.
How to Turn on Your Bike Lights?
Adding the right battery
The first step to turning on your bike lights is to ensure that you have the right battery installed.
Depending on the type of lights you have, you may need to use AA, AAA, or rechargeable batteries.
Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the battery type and installation. If you’re not sure what type of battery you need, consult the instruction manual or seek advice from a professional.
USB Charging
If your bike lights are rechargeable, ensure they are fully charged before hitting the road. This can be done by connecting the lights to a USB charger.
Simply plug the charger into a power source and connect the lights to the charger using a USB cable. Most rechargeable bike lights have an indicator light that will turn green once the battery is fully charged.
Install the App
Some modern bike lights come with an app that allows you to control them remotely.
Install the app on your smartphone, connect it to the bike lights via Bluetooth, and follow the instructions to turn them on.
Pressing the right button
The majority of bike lights have a button that needs to be pressed to turn them on. The button is usually located on the light’s body or handlebar mount.
Press and hold the button for a few seconds to turn the lights on.
If the lights have multiple modes, such as high, medium, and low, press the button again to switch between the modes.
E-bike Lights
E-bikes have specific lighting requirements that vary depending on the country and region you’re cycling in.
If you’re riding an e-bike, ensure that your lights meet the required standards, which can usually be found in the instruction manual or by a professional.
Dynamo Powered Light
Some older bikes come with a dynamo-powered light system that uses the power generated by the bike’s movement to turn on the lights. Ensure that the dynamo is connected and functioning correctly, and the lights should automatically turn on as you cycle.
What are The Best Bike Lights For You?
| # | Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
| Ascher Ultra Bright USB... | 25,442 Reviews |
$26.99
$18.99 | View on Amazon |
| 2 |
| Victoper Bike Light, High... |
$19.99
$16.98 | View on Amazon | |
| 3 |
| BV Bicycle Light Set Super... |
$20.00
$9.99 | View on Amazon | |
| 4 |
| Cuvccn Bike Lights,... |
$19.99 | View on Amazon | |
| 5 |
| Ascher USB Rechargeable Bike... | 37,541 Reviews |
$15.99 | View on Amazon |
| 6 |
| 8 Pack Bicycle Light, Silicone... | 1,829 Reviews |
$10.99
$9.99 | View on Amazon |
| 7 |
| GearLight Rechargeable Bike... |
$31.99
$22.49 | View on Amazon | |
| 8 |
| Akale Rechargeable Bike Lights... |
$29.99
$17.46 | View on Amazon | |
| 9 |
| Voph Bike Lights, 6+4 Modes... |
$19.99
$15.99 | View on Amazon | |
| 10 |
| 1200 Lumens Bike Lights Front... |
$29.99
$19.99 | View on Amazon |
1. Lezyne Macro Drive 1300XXL
The Lezyne Macro Drive 1300XXL is a high-powered front light that boasts a maximum output of 1300 lumens.
It is made of durable aluminum and has a sleek, compact design that makes it easy to mount onto your bike.
The light features several modes, including a flashing mode for added visibility. The battery life is impressive, with up to 148 hours of runtime on the lowest setting.
One standout feature is its “Overdrive Race Mode,” which allows you to quickly toggle between high and medium modes with a simple double-click of the power button.
- THREE LED EMITTERS – High output LED emitters allow for a compact package to shine a brilliant 1300 lumens, with integrated cooling fins for optimal battery efficiency
- DAYTIME MODES – Attention grabbing daylight flash and pulse modes help cars to notice you when you’re riding to ensure you don’t get in trouble
- WATERPROOF – Lightweight aluminum housing with sealed components allow this light to withstand light to moderate rain and keep the trail and road brightly lit, with an IPX7 rating
- SEVEN MODES – A full blast 1300 lumen mode that lasts 2.5 hours, a 15-lumen mode that lasts for 148 hours, as well as daytime modes, and four others
- USB RECHARGEABLE - Keep these lights topped up between rides with the included micro-USB cable, with quick recharge times to make sure you get your lights charged between rides.
2. NiteRider 1200 OLED Boost
The NiteRider 1200 OLED Boost is another powerful front light with a maximum output of 1200 lumens.
It features an OLED display that shows battery level, runtime, and mode selection, making it easy to keep track of your light’s performance.
The light is made of durable materials and has a sleek, compact design that makes it easy to mount onto your bike.
One standout feature is its “Boost” mode, which provides maximum brightness for 20 seconds at the push of a button.
- Bulbs: CREE (LED)
- Batteries Included: Lithium Ion
- Modes: [headlight] 5 solid, 4 flashing, [tail light] 2 solid, 2 flashing
- Lumens: [headlight] 75, 275, 550, 1000, 1200
3. Knog PWR Trail 1100L
The Knog PWR Trail 1100L is a versatile front light that doubles as a power bank, allowing you to charge your phone or other devices on the go.
It has a maximum output of 1100 lumens and features multiple modes, including a flashing mode for added visibility.
The light is made of durable materials and has a unique, modular design that allows you to customize it to your needs.
- BATTERY INDICATOR - Hate it when you run out of battery with no warning? That’ll never happen with PWR Trail, with 4 built in battery indicator lights. Tap the bottom of the light to activate the...
- EASY TO MOUNT & USE - This light can be mounted on top or below your handlebars, directly under your Garmin, or on your helmet. It comes with a side mount and shim that fits handlebars 22.2-38.1mm...
- CHARGE YOUR DEVICES - Press the red button to release the lighthead, and use the PWR bank to charge your phone, GoPro, cycle computer or other device. 1 hour riding @1000 lumens means you can top up...
- WIDE BEAM & CUSTOMISABLE MODES - PWR Trail outputs a max 1100 lumens, and can run for up to 300 hours on Eco Flash Mode. Its elliptical beam gives broader, bright road coverage. It comes with 6...
4. NiteRider Lumina Micro 900
The NiteRider Lumina Micro 900 is a compact and lightweight front light with a maximum output of 900 lumens.
It features a sleek design that makes it easy to mount onto your bike and has multiple modes, including a flashing mode for added visibility. The battery life is impressive, with up to 35 hours of runtime on the lowest setting.
- LOCK MODE FEATURE keeps the Lumina Micro 900 headlight securely powered off during transport or storage. Unlock / Lock the light by simply holding the power button down for 8-10 seconds.
- IMPORTANT: THE LUMINA MICRO 900 IS SET TO LOCK MODE AT THE FACTORY. UNLOCK BEFORE USE.
- OPTIMAL VIZ for increased visibility while out on the roadways. Cars and motorcycles are incorporating daytime running lights for increased daylight visibility. And with drivers more distracted than...
- LOW BATTERY INDICATOR on the Lumina Micro 900 and SABRE 110 is cleverly designed into the power button. Lit in blue indicates a good battery level remaining. Lit in red indicates that the battery...
- DURABLE AND LONG-LASTING rugged design of the Lumina Micro 900 with DuPont fiberglass reinforced nylon housing provides cyclists with the most durable, reliable and best performing lights in the...
5. Cycliq Fly12
The Cycliq Fly12 is a front-light and camera combo that allows you to record your rides in HD.
It has a maximum output of 600 lumens and features multiple modes, including a flashing mode for added visibility.
The camera captures footage in 1080p and features a 135-degree wide-angle lens, making it ideal for capturing all of the action on your rides.
- 1080p full HD bike camera with 6-axis image stabilisation and High Dynamic Range (HDR)
- Bright 600 lumen bicycle front light with Home-Safe mode
- Massive 8 hour run time/battery life (camera only mode). Easy 1/8th turn mounting. Fits 31.8mm, 22.2mm and tapered handle bars.
- Black box incident protection technology and looping video
- Bike alarm, Bluetooth, water resistant, USB-C fast charge
6. Bontrager Ion 200 RT
The Bontrager Ion 200 RT is a compact and lightweight front light with a maximum output of 200 lumens.
Its sleek design makes it easy to mount onto your bike and has multiple modes, including a flashing mode for added visibility. The light is rechargeable via USB and has a battery life of up to 60 hours on the lowest setting.
- Ion Elite R provides a powerful beam that lights up the full width of any road or trail
- A warm, wide 1000 lumen beam allows confident night riding
- Specifically designed focus, flash, and range flash patterns offer ultimate daytime visibility
- Long-lasting brightness exceeds industry standards
- 1000lm-1.5hrs, 650lm-3hrs, 350lm-6hrs, night flash-26hrs, day flash-22hrs
7. Light & Motion Vis Pro 1000 Blacktop
The Light & Motion Vis Pro 1000 Blacktop is a top-notch bike light that provides excellent illumination while riding at night.
It features a 1000-lumen headlight that provides a bright and wide beam pattern.
It also has a tail light with a maximum output of 60 lumens, which increases your visibility on the road.
The light comes with a handlebar mount that allows you to attach and remove the light from your bike easily. It is also waterproof and durable, making it perfect for all weather conditions.
- Powerful 1000 lumen output in a tough, lightweight package.
- Ideal for helmet or handlebar, 3 mounting options included, easy install.
- Superior daytime safety with 500 lumen SafePulse mode.
- 4 modes with up to 12 hour run time.
- Powerful side lights for safety on the road.
8. NiteRider Sentry Aero 260
The NiteRider Sentry Aero 260 is a sleek and aerodynamic tail light that provides excellent visibility on the road.
It features a powerful 260-lumen output, multiple modes, and a custom programmable flash mode.
The light is easy to install and comes with a versatile mount that can be attached to your seat post or seat stay or clipped onto your bag or clothing.
The light also has a built-in accelerometer that detects sudden braking or impact and increases the brightness of the light to warn drivers behind you.
- INNOVATIVE DESIGN Form follows function, providing 260 degrees of visibility with 260 Lumens of powerful light output
- DAYLIGHT VISIBLE FLASH FOR INCREASED RIDER SAFETY with a long a 7. 5 hour run time of Alternating Flash Patterns for those extended rides. Riding with a bright tail light in the daylight is every bit...
- CHOICE OF MULTIPLE LIGHT MODES 2 steady light levels: LOW @ 30 hours run time and HIGH @ 4. 5 hours. Plus 4 Daylight Visible Flash modes FAST FLASH @ 7 hours, STEADY W/ FAST FLASH @ 6. 5 hours,...
- FAST AND EFFICIENT USB RECHARGE-ABILITY reaches a full charge in just 2. 5 hours. While plugged in, LED indicator will change from red to blue when it reaches a full charge.
- LOW BATTERY INDICATOR upon powering off, indicator flashes blue notifying you that there is more than 20% battery level. And will light up red when below approx. 20% remaining.
9. Topeak Taillux 100
The Topeak Taillux 100 is a compact and affordable tail light that provides excellent visibility on the road. It features a 100-lumen output, multiple modes, and a battery life of up to 12 hours.
The light is easy to install and comes with a versatile mount that can be attached to your seat post or seat stay or clipped onto your bag or clothing.
The light also has a built-in USB rechargeable battery, making it convenient for on-the-go charging.
- 4 Lighting Modes,Burn time: 3 hr (Constant) / 5 hr (Blinking+Constant) / 10 hr (Constant+Blink Sequence) / 30 hr (Blinking)
- Visible Range 220°
- Mounts on aero or round seatposts
- Includes mounting clip that attaches easily to Topeak bags
- Silicone strap allows tool-free mounting / removal from helmet
10. Garmin Varia RTL515
The Garmin Varia RTL515 is a high-end bike light that provides excellent visibility and safety features.
It features a 65-lumen tail light, a radar system that detects approaching vehicles up to 140 meters away, and a daylight-visible 500-lumen headlight that automatically adjusts the brightness based on ambient light conditions.
The light also comes with a versatile mount that can be attached to your seat post or seat stay. The Garmin Varia RTL515 is a must-have for serious cyclists who want the best visibility and safety features while riding on the road.
- IN THE BOX: 1 x Garmin Varia RTL515, Cycling Rearview Radar, 1x Mounting Kit, 1x Cables, 1 x Wearable4U E-Bank
- Rearview radar with tail light provides awareness of vehicles approaching from behind up to 153 yards (140 meters) away. Pairs seamlessly with your Edge bike computer and compatible smartphone as well...
- When used with your compatible smartphone, the Varia app provides graphics — plus tone and vibration alerts — that indicate approaching cars. When used with a compatible smartphone, Varia radar...
- Daylight visibility up to 1 mile alerts motorists to your presence as soon as possible. Compact vertical design mounts easily to most road-use bicycles. Battery life: up to 16 hours in day flash mode,...
- WEARABLE4U E-BANK: 2200 mAh. Keep your watches charged at all times with our Wearable4U device (keeps at least one charge!)
FAQs
How do I install bike lights?
The installation process for bike lights varies depending on the type of light you have.
Some lights clip onto your bike, while others require mounting brackets or other hardware. It’s important to read the user manual for your specific light to know the correct installation process.
How do I know when my bike lights need to be charged or have new batteries?
Most bike lights have an indicator light that lets you know when the battery is low. Some lights may also flash or dim when the battery is getting low.
If your light is powered by batteries, it’s important to keep spare batteries on hand and replace them when needed.
Can I use bike lights during the day?
Yes, using bike lights during the day can increase your visibility and help make you safer on the road.
Some lights even have a visible daylight mode that is specifically designed for use during the day.
Are bike lights waterproof?
Many bike lights are designed to be waterproof or at least water-resistant. It’s important to check the specifications of your specific light to know if it is waterproof or not.
Using a waterproof light can help prevent damage and ensure that the light continues to function properly in wet conditions.
Can I use my phone as a bike light?
While some phone apps exist that claim to turn your phone into a bike light, it’s generally not recommended.
Phone lights are not designed for use as bike lights, and using your phone as a light can drain your phone’s battery and potentially damage the phone itself. It’s best to invest in a proper bike light for optimal safety and performance.
Conclusion
Turning on your bike lights is a simple but crucial step for staying safe while cycling, whether you’re commuting to work, training for a race, or just enjoying a leisurely ride.
By following the instructions for your specific type of bike light, you can ensure that you’re visible to drivers and other cyclists, even in low-light or adverse weather conditions.
Remember to check your lights regularly and replace batteries or charge them as needed to maintain maximum visibility. With the right bike lights and the knowledge of how to turn them on, you can ride confidently and safely, no matter where the road takes you.
Last update on 2023-10-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
