The Case For Daytime Running Lights On Bikes | Bontrager Flare RT & Ion RT First Look

[@gcn]

Do you use lights during the day? Let us know 👇

[@tinwhiskerSC]

I use my lights in strobe setting during the day if i'm going to be on the roadway. It really just make sense.

[@Ihaveadashcam]

Strobe during day strobe front and rear.

[@AndrewTSq]

No, easier to have bright color clothes on etc :)

[@hrk635]

Yes.SOS

[@dieterhansdampf504]

Global Cycling Network I just use my road bike/Mountainbike with a dynamo in the middle of the wheel and I have the light in all the time because the dynamo is producing electricity all the time when driving si I can just use the light for a small bit of extra safety

[@ZOB4]

I use daytime running lights on every ride. I get comments from other road users pretty regularly about how visible I am, which makes me feel a lot safer on the road. I’ve also seen cars give me a lot of space, and then pass very close to other cyclists who weren’t using any lights. I fully believe that my lights help keep me safer on every ride.

[@gcn]

That's cool, safety is SO important. 👍

[@SonjaTheDork]

I commute regularly by bike both day and night, and visibility is the most important part of the ride in my opinion. I have two headlights (one narrow+bright and one wide+dim) and two taillights mouned to my bike, plus a very excessive amount of reflective tape. I also have a taillight on my high visibility vest, and a fluorescent yellow backpack cover. This all works incredibly well to keep you safe on the roads, but some drivers seem almost more inclined to drive closely to you and cut you off. They're generally the ones that are well known in local groups though, repeat offenders. If you're curious about my light+tape setup, I'd be happy to upload some images.

[@adamgardner8721]

I agree about passing distance - it's more noticeable when I'm commuting (as the road is busier), but I get a really good passing distance when I'm using lights. I think the intensity of the light makes me seem larger than I actually am, so the driver passes wider. I don't use them in the summer though, and get regular close passes. Perhaps I should take heed of my own evidence....

[@stefanpredl6849]

They will think more like how they will overtake a Motorcycle/Moped when they see a light than just the reflectors.

[@towerrunner496]

z.browning, I have also been using daylight running lights (1st generation Bontrager Ion and Flare RT), I agree totally with you accessment that cars give cyclsit with lights a lot more space!

[@betterpreparedness5167]

I work in emergency management and have been racing in cycling and bike commuting for over 30 years. The difference between a collision or non-collision in my opinion is seconds or tenths of seconds more time available to be seen by motorists, pedestrians or other cyclists. Daytime running lights can help give you that extra visibility advantage in marbled shade, in busy backgrounds or when a motorist only briefly glances left and right. Collisions can have many variables but if you can improve your visibility to all other road users, you are reducing one of major risks. Do I use lights in daytime? Yes. Why not. And you don't need the fanciest, sorry Bontrager. Most quality lights have disruptive flash patterns and are newer lights are USB-cable recharging so you can easily recharge them without having to remove AAA batteries and trying to find your battery charger that your swore was in the middle drawer in your kitchen. You have the opportunity to reduce your risks. Why not seize the opportunity?

[@gcn]

That's very true, anything we can do to make the roads safer and be seen

[@Pseudynom]

Unfortunatelly, the use of flashing lights on bikes is illegal in Germany.

[@trevorockenden1344]

I lost a dear friend because he was not seen approaching in the daylight. Front light just as essential in my opinion.

[@daleb5733]

I agree, My second day out on my bike a car pulled out right in front of me from a stop sign, luckily I was able to stop just in time.

[@edsapple]

The arguments against DRL are frankly ridiculous, modern motorcycles are fitted with always on lights for a very good reason....

[@Nomgoose]

I have been using daytime running lights (the older version of the Bontrager lights in this video in fact) for the past year and I must say that it has made me feel tremendously safer and more confident when riding long distances. I feel so much more visible, cars definitely notice me from much further away and those cars also give me more space when they pass. Daytime running lights are a definite game changer and I recommend them to everybody.

[@gcn]

If it makes you feel safer then it's certainly worth it

[@Lasermanprint]

i've been using daytime lights for a couple of years now and its an effective way of being seen

[@gcn]

We think so!

[@Lasermanprint]

Bright Clothing Helps As well,

[@howardhopkinson]

@@Lasermanprint Indeed it does. My fluorescent bike apparel might make look a bit silly, but it's better to look silly and be seen than to look cool and risk being dead or injured.

[@warrenshapiro1]

I have lights and I never used them during the day. You have changed my mind on this. I'm sold. From now on I'm using them during the day. Thanks! Great video!

[@jimsigafoos8799]

I've been using a rear flashing light for a few years. Added a front flashing light last year after a driver exiting a lot looked right at me then pulled out in front of me. He realized what he had done upon hearing my reaction, stopped and apologized, and indicated that he hadn't noticed me. Anything to increase visibility is to the good, which is why I also wear fluorescent sun sleeves and socks as well.

[@ClayGlad]

I always have lights on, day and night. Flashing rear light always. Headlight; steady at night (so I can see,) flashing in the daytime so I can be seen.

[@gcn]

👍

[@Taurusdre]

Same here

[@rmyrides5346]

I use exactly same setup, especially here in Vancouver where it gets pretty dark in winter months.

[@Night6436]

1:15 notice that? A little wave just to acknowledge a fellow cyclist. I’m fed up waving to cyclist and not even getting a simple nod. We all do the same sport!

[@rokitman5753]

I always give fellow cyclists the finger both hands! Welcome to Toronto!!!

[@GMoneyLove]

When I'm riding on the roads I've always used my trusty Niterider headlight in flash mode and it has noticeably caught the attention of drivers approaching intersections from a cross street. They all pause when they see me. So I totally agree with all findings... and now want to check out these lights too! Great video, thanks.

[@Jisungtheace]

I’ve used daytime running lights ever since I got knocked off almost 4 years ago. To me as a motorist as well as a cyclist seeing a flashing light attracts you attention.

[@jorgitogaitan]

great video. definitely sharing it on fb with my clubs. I am an advocate for lights all the time. I run on my bikes cygolite dash 460 in the front and see.sense on the back, I also try to wear colorful kits so its easier to spot me while cycling! great content guys!

[@gcn]

Cheers Jorge! It all makes a difference.

[@bicycle697]

Me too!

[@stuartdryer1352]

Physiologist here. Human visual systems are especially cued into features that change. Presumably they are more relevant for survival. More input into the superior coliculus and not just into the lateral geniculate nucleus for those of especially bio-geeky mindset. The flashes ensure that. I always ride with them when riding alone. Of course it would make you more visible to giant predatory flying dinosaurs. Fortunately that's not a problem where I live. Joking aside it is the flashing that matters and really small cheap lights are quite sufficient.

[@Jimabaz]

Welp, I just bought a set which do not flash (built by a German manufacturer and conform to German road laws) but not exactly helpful in this regard.

[@gcn]

Thanks for sharing that Stuart, we'll have to get the PhD presenters on the bio-geeky stuff!

[@stuartdryer1352]

cerebellum We are talking about daytime riding.

[@deborahduricka9398]

Neuroscience PhD here, and I concur with Stuart's statements. Especially the flying dinosaurs.

[@sebtri1721]

Human Factors psychologist here: While it is important that during daytime hours, flashing lights increase visibility, one should educate people about the downsights and issues during the night, e.g. decreased ability to perceive distance compared to a steady light source. One further factor which should be researched is how sensibility towards cyclist which don’t use flashing light decreases once people get used towards flashing lights.

[@boboliver2259]

I am kitting out my recumbent trike and will definately be using daylight running lights. Just bought 2 Bontragers for front to accompany the Moon I already have. Thanks for the insight very useful

[@russmartinez7988]

What bike path did you use? Also is there any movement to allow bike to have blinking light. I live in a country that does not allow blinking lights. Also seeing the bike and recognizing there is a bike is a big difference. Lights greatly help this

[@bunnyadrian]

I love the idea of light on bikes at all times. I'm also glad that rechargeable lights are now commonplace and the most popular option. However, it is annoying that the batteries usually die within 6-8 hours of use. My biggest challenge is making sure I actually remember to charge all my devices. Just inside my back door I've set up a charging station with 3 micro USB plugs to charge my GPS unit, front light, and rear light/camera. I still don't always remember to plug everything in. The next step in safety is making sure it become a natural processes for users to implement it every time.

[@rpriesol]

Would be good have an internal cabling just for powering (dynamo or battery) and charging all gear (light, bike computer and DI2) from one place. These Bontrager lights are really nice, but I miss a better connector that can be used for permanent cabling.

[@R0B0PR0P]

I have done the same thing, 3 plugs with micro USB cables so i can charge my rear lights, front light and Garmin at the same time.

[@pmwhitaker2]

I only cycle in daylight for preference and I always use flashing front and rear lights all the time - feel a lot safer!

[@gcn]

If you feel safer then it's certainly worth it

[@davidmulligan42]

I've been using daytime running lights for years. I currently have the Bontrager Ion/Flare 100 lights. I do think drivers are more likely to see you.

[@originalkontrol]

Glad to see a video on this. I am a huge proponent for flashing lights in the daytime. Good to see some science behind it, and even the best type of flashes and such. Well done guys!

[@sandgroper1970]

Well I always use a flashing rear light ( coincidently a Bontrager) ; then as conditions start to get duller and / overcast like going into winter I use a front light. Add with this for winter riding I have a set of full fingered gloves which are a flouro yellow colour.

[@gcn]

Nice choice 👍

[@bent3747]

@GCN: What kind of front mount is that underneath the Wahoo? Seems like a mount that could fit under a K-edge. Pretty aero.

[@3rdtent]

Your video concerning bike lights as very good and helpful. I will definitely use daytime lights now when I can get them.

[@gcn]

Great to hear Frankie!

[@petinka721]

These lights are hell mush better than reflex! I must bye these and thanks Emma and Chris for enjoying safety video! GCN not only bike riding they save lives to!

[@gcn]

Thanks Petinka! Safety first!

[@oswego80able]

I avoid riding at night and use DRLs always during the day. Car drivers in the US are too often looking at thier cell phones rather than the road. Anything to attract attention!

[@dexterthompson1809]

i think people that are glancing at the phones should be CHARGED as a DUI/DWI. PERIOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@trufflemonster5399]

@ Ben Jones. I actually prefer riding at night because I can see the lights of an approaching car behind me, I then move as far over as is safe. I’ve had more close calls in the day light than night. I use DRL’s 50% of the time depending on the opportunity to recharge. I’ve always got a AAA powered flasher on the back of my helmet just Incase my main light dies. At night I run both.

[@jamesmccaffrey6596]

Use whistle always

[@marklong691]

I use the Exposure Flares (F&R) with the day bright setting and motorists seem more likely to slow up and give me a little bit extra room when approaching and passing... which is nice

[@davidstihler9689]

I noticed you had a mount on your handlebar which held the front light - do you mind responding who makes it - thanks

[@TimFitzwater]

I rarely use them during the day - unless I'm in a lot of shade. But I do always use the irregular flash pattern.

[@PaulabJohnson]

I ride 2-3000 miles a year. Probably 1000 of that is on a boris bike in central London so daytime lights aren't as necessary. Where lights make the most impact for me are the roads further out towards surrey and box hill..especially in summer with a lot of greenery and dappled light meaning people approaching at 50 -60 have minimum time to react. I already use a four4th scorpion on the rear and think I'll try these out too..anything that makes you more visible can only be a good thing, right?

[@palicar]

I always use a flashing taillight but the headlight stays in the drawer most rides. Both flash in regular intervals only - maybe I’ll look into intermittent flashing. I’m worried I’ll be aware of the funky rhythm and it will impact my flawless pedal stroke. (Sarcasm)

[@gcn]

😂

[@morashc]

I've also been using daytime lights. Have been ever since I started cycling on the road again. Recently got new Trek bikes for wife and I and I was sure to outfit both with these lights!! I feel better knowing we can be seen in all conditions.

[@evickers3164]

I have been using the Exposure Link Plus Daylight light for the last year or more. Many people comment how visible I am on my regular commute, most think it is silly but the fact I am seen outweighs the comic opera! I am curious about the Bontrager Ion set. I wonder what the comparison would be with the Exposure Link Plus? Is the additional connectivity feature just a gimmick? Although the Exposure Link Plus did cost me £70 when I got it. All in all, I feel safer with it. How comes the Bontrager lights where the only one featured?

[@zeevschultz1795]

Super important topic, thanks GCN folks. I've been thinking about adding bike lights, day or night, after few fellow cyclists got into nasty incidents. Noticed more and more riders are using lights recently, nothing bad in my opinion, just get yourself more visible. Side note, same or similar lights on a tri/TT bike should be no problem?

[@harryhawk3542]

I use a strong front light during the day but have a jumbo saddle bag for my clothing so there isn't really room on the seat post for a rear light. Are there any decent lights that fix well onto the seat stays?

[@AussieInJapan]

Great video topic and great video. I don’t go anywhere without lights on my bike, no matter the time of day. In fact I have a day set and a night set, which are a mix of knog and Bontrager. Love they are all USB rechargeable easily attached and have multiple flash modes. The only other thing I would have added about lights is that there are helmets now that easily accept small lights, and this keeps me seen from a higher level and above the height of most car roofs. There are a lot of distractions for drivers these days, and all of my close calls were from drivers not paying attention or being distracted (smartphone, map), or an oncoming driver not seeing me among the background when turning at an intersection. Lights hitting their mirrors from behind (parked cars included.) can help as well. Stay safe out there riders. I really recommend the Bontrager lights, and while they were pricey, I consider them a form of insurance and wouldn’t buy anything except knog and Bontrager these days.

[@gcn]

Glad you enjoyed this one and thanks for a great comment!

[@wilfriedmestdagh1676]

Idem ! Knogg and Bontrager 👍

[@MarkChancephotography]

What mount is Chris using on his bike for the Wahoo and light?

[@renybass1]

I use the Garmin Varia UT800, adjusts the flashing and brightness according to outside light. Mounts right underneath my Garmin 520 very neatly

[@ivan_torres]

I purchased a Bontrager ion pro rt light for safety, but I do not know what to do. The other day I was cycling with the lights turned on in the day flashing mode and an other cyclist in a bike lane told me that I should lower the power on my lights because I blinded him. It was before sun set and the lights were angled slightly down. I dont want to lower the intensity on day light but I dont want to blind other cyclists either. What should I do ? Have you ever been blinded by lights on cloudy days ? my usual routes are composed of primarily of bike lanes in which pedestrians run /walk and intermittent road crossings. I feel that with the new lights cars yield the way to me more often.

[@alrocky]

Switch bikes with a friend to see how your bike lights appear to other cyclists.

[@gabri3970]

How much do the lights in the video cost?

[@andy54giddings]

Around $50USD/light

[@MrKachannie]

andy54giddings where can I get them?

[@gabri3970]

thanks

[@andy54giddings]

Either the Trek website or with any Trek Local Bike Store. The lights in this video were only released in July so might be a few weeks before they are widely available

[@MrKachannie]

andy54giddings what's the model name?

[@fragfarmerCA]

I'm currently on the lookout for a good front light to attach to my aero bar. I use this bike for commuting so it should really do it's job well and - as I said - tightly fit onto my flat aero bars. Any recommendations?

[@hrk635]

GCN which light is better which work on rechargeable battery or alkaline battery.

[@keriezy]

Does rechargeable! For sure. I keep a spare small light on my bike front and back just in case I run out of juice. But batteries are way too expensive in the long run. Plus recharging lights usually are more water resistant.

[@moi5898]

Does the element bolt you're using connect to those lights?

[@marksadventures3889]

How might effect someone with say epilepsy? Surely a flashing light might trigger them to have seizures?

[@mateuszpolaszek2134]

Are you aware of any bontrager straps long enough for mounting the rear light to aero seatpost? (Canyon Aeroad) cheers!

[@martyjbrown]

Absolutely, every time. I have the Bontrager Flare R, the bigger unit which is great - will look at getting one of those little Ion 200s for summer in NZ when I pack away my bigger front light. Like the connection with the Wahoo, that's useful.

[@AlexanderTheGrateful]

can you manually lock it into day mode regardless of ambient light?

[@anitaduplooy6240]

Since I was hit from behind during daytime, I seriously considered mounting a flashing red light on my motorcycle. I am sure it will help to make me more visible and attract the attention of motorist coming from behind. I am constantly trying to make myself as seen as possible - but people are so ignorant of cyclist and motorbikes...sad but true. I like you video very much!! Thanks you for making it.

[@jackduffy1817]

How long do these small lite batter's last for. One Day, two day's.

[@t0manick]

So what you're saying is ideally we need to wrap ourselves in christmas lights?

[@gcn]

You'd get a lot of attention for yourself, that's for sure!

[@t.m.7919]

Only on christmas eve! On all other occasions such behaviour will be persecuted by the holy inquisition as heresy. Of course. And you knew it before posting your comment.

[@JamesMiller_ShadowWalker]

Local Trek dealer HIGHLY SUGGESTED I get the Flair R as a rear light, or something similar, right away. He saw me riding the recumbent trike in the daytime and said I need to be more noticeable. Bought the Flare R, then later the Ion R up front for the daytime running light modes. These are THE BEST attention getters. Not seen any other company provide a daytime running strobe like Bontrager, and it's the randomized pattern and that extra boost on the main flash that grabs attention. Other companies give a cheap strobe that does not grab attention as much as it annoys drivers. Almost tried a Lezyne version as thought perhaps the Germans got it, but I have not tried theirs. Was not as well impressed. I use the older Bontrager Flairs, in fact have two rear Flair R's. Although they do not adjust light intensity or anything, so I may have to bit the bullet and upgrade to RTs.

[@myminx]

Yep ; big fan of them ! Need them around Cornish roads

[@colinellsworth7671]

Anyone know if these will work with wahoo? Trek says they only work with Garmin head units for the ANT+ features.

[@nomiakser4453]

4.20 does anyone know which out front mount is being used? I have the same front light and wahoo bolt and like the simplicity?

[@davidbrown-px7cr]

A Great video. I use my lights during the day as well as at night as it helps in so many situations. Drivers notice me and change their behaviour (I've even had 2 that started pulling out in front of me, but when the corner of their eye caught the light they stopped) and other people using the cycle path (I use the one in this video the twins tunnels path) who are walking and in a world of their own, tend to wake up when the light reflects of something in front of them which is better for them and better for me.

[@gcn]

Glad you enjoyed the video David

[@xaviergm]

In certain countries (e.g. in Switzerland) it is mandatory to ride with steady lights... not sure now if only at night or also in daytime... You can add flashing lights if you want but one of your lights needs to be steady on each end of the bike.

[@seags8975]

I own the previous generation Flare R and have had drivers come up to me at a stop and ask me if I could turn the light's brightness down (when flashing at full power) because it was "distracting" them. If that isn't a ringing endorsement for a daytime light I don't know what is.

[@teresaweaver6609]

Yes, your information was extremely delightful😅❤ thank you for sharing.

[@petertrace49]

I use a Cateye rear light which integrates beautifully into my Fizik saddle - has to be the cleanest solution out there. Unfortunately no longer supported!

[@ferryengr]

I've used flashing (pulsing) lights with an irregular pattern during the daytime front and back for several years. Many times I see recognition in a driver's face that they see me - and I'm sure the lights contributed to them recognizing my approach. I also find the lights to be helpful when I my path falls under the shade of roadside trees or I ride through tunnels or underpasses in relative darkness. Drivers would not be able to see me in the relatively dark conditions otherwise. Note, I've heard the Clemson study determined "pulsing" lights are better than "flashing" lights, but have not seen a universally accepted definition of pulse vs. flash.

[@nprimetv8956]

I was always in two minds about the advantages of using daytime running lights on my bike but after seeing this video I'm utterly convinced.

[@anoshya]

Fluorescent jackets are very important too..as a driver and cyclist I tend to notice cyclists wearing high visibility jackets more

[@sureshchinnappa2290]

Thanks for the video I am really pleased with your recommendation as I have just invested in a set of lights for my bike😀

[@gcn]

Great stuff Suresh, what lights have you bought?

[@sureshchinnappa2290]

A pair of see sense ace. Delivery in Sept and it’s made in the UK😀

[@enigmaviki]

Hi any recommendations of it in India? Available in decathlon?

[@sureshchinnappa2290]

No idea I am from Australia.

[@chawanatn]

How do you guys mount BOTH a head unit and a light? What about adding a camera (like those GoPro people)? I mean it's possible to wrap each of them on the handlebar one by one, but it's clunky. I don't want my bike to look like an MI5 command centre.

[@JMise]

Many Garmin mounts have a separate mount below for a camera or a light.

[@andy54giddings]

If they are using the Trek Blendr type mount there is a duo fixture for mounting GoPro/Garmin and a light together

[@t0a0z0i0]

I use the K-Edge Wahoo Pro combo mount that holds the Wahoo Elemnt Bolt up top and has a GoPro action camera type mount below to hold an action camera or light. I use the NiteRider Mako 750 light with the K-edge Go Pro adapter (extra $) that mates the light to the combo mount. It's a very neat way declutter. Pretty sure they make it for Garmin too but you need to check.

[@JimKJeffries]

I us the bontrager ion pro rt, two on the front, two on the rear. Sometimes I spend over 8hrs in the saddle, so with two I always got light, and if I want to run fast through the trails at night...I got two up front. Love em.

[@daleb5733]

Thanks for your video, I just ordered a set of these lights. Is there an app for android phones that can control these lights? If so, what is it called? I know there is a remote you can buy, but I'd rather use my phone.

[@markbooth6745]

Yes I use them in day time, especially in time trials .good video.👍

[@gcn]

Glad you enjoyed this one Mark

[@afpitbull60]

Day or night, I'm using the Garmin RTL 510 and Garmin Varia UT 800 paired to the Edge 1030.

[@santiagorodriguez4815]

is it compatible to a wahoo elemnt?

[@twgee2]

So I've always wondered about cyclists vanity and the "I'm a wus if I use a light during the day" attitude. For gods sake... car manufacturers make cars that have lights on AUTOMATICALLY when the car is running! Why? BECAUSE IT'S SAFER! Why anyone on a puny little bike would take a chance of NOT being seen by a driver who say... is drunk, or tired, or on meds, or in a hurry, or on the phone, or talking to a passanger, or scratching their balls, or if just plain f'ing blind .... is beyond me. WAKE UP KUNCKLEHEADS! Use a light at all times. It's safer. Btw... I use them all the time in case you were wondering.

[@powernab8457]

I totally agree with you. I didn't understand the vanity nonsense either. I want to be seen on the lanes of the road so if lights help drivers then I'm using them all day everyday. Being hit by a car is not nice!

[@yaash4123]

Great video. I'm going to try this out on my commute. Thanks.

[@chrisb_rc]

Fly6 on the back all year round at minimum, dull/overcast days or early AM I'll have front light on too. Sometimes flashing,depends on whether I need to see with it

[@IsraelMagalit]

What phone app was that used to measure light output?

[@B33fJ3rk33]

What brand and model lights are used on your bike in this video?

[@RickOchet12345]

Brilliant video! I've had DRLs on my bike since the start of the year, a real easy way to make rides safer. If i'm on the bike, the lights are on.

[@jen3800]

i do use flashing lights in daytime but having seen this i need to upgrade. as always, GCN puts out great videos. thanks !

[@leejefferson7011]

Love to own a pair of these but I’m struggling to find them in the uk. Where did gcn get them from please? Thank you

[@cdofm]

I have the ion 800 on the front and the ion flare on the rear of my domane and the first ride I had them on I notice cars gave me a wider berth on the road

[@willshu4955]

What app do you use on your phone to access the lights?

[@stephendesrosiers86]

Which Kask helmet are these 2 cyclist using?

[@disturbed4ever2]

Flashing bike lights are illegal in many european countries. I.e. germany and the netherlands

[@gcn]

Yes - another consideration to take into account in your local country.

[@robbchastain3036]

Wow, that is really surprising, given the cycling-friendliness of those nations.

[@gabri3970]

Robb Chastain No it would be illegal on cars too. It’s just dangerous to have flashing lights

[@dvlrnr]

Not at all surprising to me. Flashing lights are disorientating and also very, very annoying both to meet and to follow. Solid lights or nothing at all.

[@LegSpinna]

Gabri Has nobody noticed the emergency services driving illegally with flashing lights?

[@PathfinderGregg]

Another great video. Thanks guys. Love the color of your bike Ema.

[@gcn]

Cheers! It's a pretty awesome colour on Emma's Trek!

[@bruin4937]

Thank you! VERY helpful and informative video!

[@sherwinsalvatori6997]

Is their a difference between day running lights and night lights please explain

[@purushrut]

sherwin salvatori Day time running lights such as Flare series have Focused Optics & output 35+ lumens making them visible from 400+ metres in Daylight. Other competitors have their own versions of Daytime running lights. I'd suggest SOB Led for Daytime. COB for Nighttime as they don't feature focused optics. There is no minimum requirement of Lumens to be classified as Night time light as in the dark even 1 lumen output is visible, But the Q is from how much distance. All Daytime certified lights have separate Night time modes so as to not blind those behind you.

[@timchan6030]

My subjective opinion as a driver is that high vis clothing with reflective bits is more noticeable on cyclists than lights on their bikes or person, and I have been told that orange is the best colour to wear as it is the most unusual and disruptive in the environment. Unless I have missed this somewhere, would be interested to see some GCN analysis on the value of high vis. Ta!

[@gcn]

Could certainly be one for the future, thanks Deborah

[@EvidenceofaFabulousLife]

Hi Deborah, yes I think you are right. Following up on the statement that moving lights on a knee or ankle is 5+ times more visible. Surely high vis bands on a knee or ankle would have a similar effect, especially at night? I think the research regarding orange came from POC, the helmet and cycle/ski wear manufacturer. Ride on! Tim

[@jimhansen5395]

It's all about contrast. Consider the area you are riding in. Orange usually contrasts to pretty much any backdrop, whether it's a green forest, a blue or gray sky, or a concrete jungle. Green, and to a lesser degree yellow, tend to blend into green backgrounds more, which often line the sides of the road we ride on. A very bright orange or very bright pink are going to stand out in the most scenarios.

[@derwent1972]

I use magnetic dynamo lights that run every time I ride, the cost is 2 watts and are a bit of a weight but put on and forget, plus the extra weight and drag on you commute bike well it just add to the training effect.

[@gordonociao1231]

Yes all the time I am on the road day and night. Having a very bright on the front have made pedestrians and drivers look at me and gets their attention. I also have two red flashing lights, one set low left side near the axle and one just above my rear brakes on my Cevelo soloist. I feel it’s made a difference for me after years of riding without them!

[@mrwicksy]

I've got Lezyne 400XL and 300 Lumen rear, I use them on Day Flash when out in the countryside, and in cities at dusk. I also have Day Flash on the rear during the night when out doing Deliveroo, I use the 150 mode rather than the full 300, and it's angled such that it won't shine in people's eyes but is still super bright - I find the flash pattern of low and high flash to be beneficial.

[@phildavis1825]

These only connect to Garmin head units?

[@DigitalCowboy000]

Hey GCN, I know you do shows like this from time-to-time that aren't race specific. But I was wondering if y'all could do more that are geared towards the commuter/cargo cyclist. Thank you.

[@gcn]

We have some content coming up I think you'll like!

[@DigitalCowboy000]

Global Cycling Network thank you.

[@andrewhtf]

I do turn on my blinkers even during daytime rides but it seems that the lights are not very noticeable under strong midday sun

[@kumarshanSK]

Awesome Video! Thank you for sharing!

[@bern2632]

It’s really made me consider looking into these lights. Also, I’m a psychology student who’s interested in doing research, and I realized that this subject would much likely one that would be worth looking into in my future career.

[@billwhitlatch431]

Thank you for your video. I enjoyed it and will be adding DLR lights to my bike.

[@jameslakeman344]

Always use my lights when out on the bike day or night. I’d even go so far to say low sun conditions can be worse than riding in the dark

[@gcn]

That's true, when the sun is low it can be pretty blinding

[@julian_b]

I’ve always got my Garmin radar back light on. It’s great.

[@gcn]

Nice 👍

[@anthonymarsala3086]

Me too. I feel a lot safer being told of when cars are approaching from behind, before I can hear them. And less looking behind me means I can focus on the road ahead. Win-win. The only small caveat I've found is that cars that stalk you at the same speed as the bike don't show up.

[@rzeckner]

Interesting video. Given the information, it would seem that an ideal solution would be to equip cycling shoes with lights in their toes and heels that would only turn on when being worn.

[@gcn]

Maybe that's the future!

[@peterscuba]

In Thailand I always have my motorbike lights on during the day, I'll do the same for my road bike. Good reminder video

[@nobleviola]

All the time - every ride. It's especially helpful on busy roads where there are a lot of cars turning out to join traffic.

[@WonderAnt10]

I'm all for daytime lights. I currently use the first gen Flare R and Ion 800 and absolutely love them. I like to call them "car repellant" as as soon as you turn both on where I live in Montreal, drivers instantly give you space and that goes for the trucks and busses too. I also do the Bio-Motion thing where I use brightly coloured socks so help drivers see me.

[@gcn]

Nice stuff! What colour socks do you go for?

[@WonderAnt10]

Anything brightly coloured like high viz yellow, blue and orange. Bontrager has nice lineup of socks like these.

[@jaredchee1978]

Are Christmas fairy lights advisable for a day ride?