Bike commuting is most definitely safer when it is light out. However, there are plenty of tools out there to keep commuters visible. I try to combine these with a less-traveled route when it is dark.
A few of the items I use when I commute in the dark include the following:
- Reflective bands on my commuter bag and/or jacket.
- Flashing red lights on the back of my bike and my bag.
- Multiple bright white lights on the front of my bike - some pointing at the road and others pointing directly ahead so cars will see me coming and not pull out in front of me.
- White clothes - I try not to dress ninja-style when bike commuting.
I have this NiteRider light on the front of my bike pointing at the road. It has a small battery pack that straps to my stem. The light is really bright. When I purchased it they only sold this version - but now they make one that has two lights working off one battery pack. I would recommend that one.
A new favorite addition to my flashing ensemble includes these new mini LED lights. At under $20 they can't be beat. I of course choose green ones. What I really like about these is that sometimes I ride my bike in the morning for a workout (when it is light out) and end up at work. Then at 6pm I find myself stuck at work with a bike and it's dark. I can throw these in my pocket or keep a few at work for those days when I want to ride home instead of run.
TriSports.com recently did a review on a different version of the MiNewt light. I haven't tried this light, but it is a good in-depth look at another bright commuting option. If you purchase any lights from TriSports.com you can also use coupon code CWERN-S for 10% off your order.
Whether you ride or run in the dark this time of year - make sure you are visible and always take the approach that cars do not see you, no matter how lit up like a Christmas tree you are. Happy and safe commuting!
