How To Cycle In The Dark | Tips For Night Riding

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  • Опубликовано: 1 фев 2025
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Комментарии • 581

  • @gcn
    @gcn  4 года назад +49

    Do you like to ride at night? What tips do you have? Let us know👇

    • @chrisburton4694
      @chrisburton4694 4 года назад +6

      Now lockdown 2 is here. Night riding is about the only option I will have to go out of the house, after working from home. Thinking of local village circuits as opposed to heading out into the countryside.

    • @syazwanhasanul4325
      @syazwanhasanul4325 4 года назад +3

      Makesure not ride on your usual sleep time...its will effect your body health..choose the right time to ride at night

    • @vinnyjhawer7847
      @vinnyjhawer7847 4 года назад +7

      I find a flashing light is the best safety feature. It helps drivers see you better than a solid light. "TOP TIP" : it's a good idea to use said light regardless of the time of day.

    • @jannielsen2582
      @jannielsen2582 4 года назад +10

      Well..my best advice is not to drive in dark clothing..

    • @oliverjahn8741
      @oliverjahn8741 4 года назад +4

      I’ve been night riding for over 12 years. SON dynamo hub, supernova lights, GARMIN Varia radar, rear view mirror, PROVIZ cycling kit all work. Flashing lights, also I just acquired a Helmet with MIPS, Lights(turn signals/brake lights)as well as Bluetooth audio. TOPEAK iGlo products and tires with reflective sidewalls are a huge help also. Anyway to be seen is worth it! Only problem are those suicidal bunnies I have pop out in front of me on the bike route I use. I regret to say I reached ACE status this year as The third bunny in 12 years ran right under my front tire two weeks ago😕

  • @scotskinner4350
    @scotskinner4350 4 года назад +70

    I love riding at night. It's my favorite time to ride. The city is quiet and there's not much traffic. When I say riding at night, I mean proper night; 2, 3, 4 o'clock in the morning.

    • @charlesmagtoto7124
      @charlesmagtoto7124 3 года назад +12

      Ditto! It’s become my habit to ride out at around 3 am. The roads are so peaceful, it’s borderline eerie. haha

    • @ch.ankit_estonia9124
      @ch.ankit_estonia9124 2 года назад

      Amazing..I'm also doing it in Estonia 🇪🇪 basically I'm from India 🇮🇳..but I have to say Indian road is far better and wider as compared to Europe (but we indian are idiots don't have rules and regulations). Lol

    • @losrevolucionarios8858
      @losrevolucionarios8858 10 месяцев назад

      As someone who learned to ride a bike well on my 30s I ride during those times to avoid the embarrassment of learning to ride at this age.

  • @ChrisCapoccia
    @ChrisCapoccia 4 года назад +65

    temperatures can really drop off after the sun goes down when the sky is clear, so dress for conditions. also need for lighting in urban area is different than in rural

    • @franciscoduran3688
      @franciscoduran3688 4 года назад

      Manon should have been reading this before doing the video xD brrrr....

  • @luisgallophoto
    @luisgallophoto 4 года назад +96

    Keep in mind that in some countries like Germany and Austria, it is ilegal to use your front light in flashing mode. Only the back light can flash on its different modes. Cheers

    • @bartus9891
      @bartus9891 4 года назад +18

      Nope backlight should also not flash

    • @rainerhilland5629
      @rainerhilland5629 4 года назад +15

      In DE at least neither light is allowed to be flashing.

    • @stevek8829
      @stevek8829 4 года назад +4

      @@bartus9891 a flashing light is easier to see and lasts twice as long on 50% duty cycle. That's two reasons for. You didn't give a reason against.

    • @Chris-ev1te
      @Chris-ev1te 4 года назад +8

      @@stevek8829 You should use a flashing light anywhere that it is legal. However, in Germany it is not legal, and that is that.

    • @timvonr2802
      @timvonr2802 4 года назад +9

      German road laws say, that flashing light is reserved for emergency light, so it’s illegal to use on road. In fact a bike light that is able to flash is not road legal in Germany. The is restrictive regulation on brightness aswell, to not blind or distract other road users...

  • @fredhubbard7210
    @fredhubbard7210 4 года назад +15

    I work 4pm-2am. I commute in the dark, ride brevets in the dark, and love my long urban rides in the dead of the night. Those cheap LED lights they recommend are rubbish.
    Always ride with redundant or back-up lights... More for longer rides. Also carry a light on your helmet especially for bike repair in the dark. Have at least two headlights and two rearlights. No lights are really reliable.

  • @moritzdiptner9785
    @moritzdiptner9785 4 года назад +6

    Hey girls and boys,
    Best regards from Germany,
    I have two things:
    Be aware of animals running through the road, a lot of animals seeking for food at night. Bigger and smaller ones, rabbits, cats, deers or boars.
    The second one is for avoiding getting worrys by your partner: use WhatsApps position Sharing or "device locator", it is using your GPS data if incoming SMS is with given code, automatically answering with Google maps link by SMS. It is great for more remote areas without good data connection.
    Good ride!

  • @cnj420
    @cnj420 2 года назад +6

    I did my first night ride without any lights, on a bike trail that was almost 10 miles long. It was remote and terrifying. Since then, I've stepped up my game with 1,700 lumens and have been night riding for years now.

  • @tomvadakan2457
    @tomvadakan2457 4 года назад +16

    Rode at night for the first time. Loved it until I must have hit a large rock at full speed and flipped over the handlebars. Thank God for my helmet. I am a bit sore, shoulder and left upper thigh but it could have been worse. I never saw the rock. Lesson is to maybe slow down in real dark sections and turn the light to the brightest setting. Rocks and potholes are the worse.

    • @heathen-greaser
      @heathen-greaser Год назад

      A spare bike light is always good just case you brake the one on the bike when crashing, don’t want to be injured in the dark miles from home with no lights

  • @jonburnell532
    @jonburnell532 4 года назад +18

    I bought some adhesive reflective strips and placed them on the back on my shoes and the back of my helmet.

    • @56507ryan
      @56507ryan 4 года назад +3

      I've been thinking of putting some on my seatstays.

    • @FlatSpinMan
      @FlatSpinMan 4 года назад +3

      I’ve been thinking to do this, too. Must get on it.

  • @richcrompton6891
    @richcrompton6891 4 года назад +4

    My daily commute meant cycling in the dark every winter. What a joy it would have been with the new light technology we have now. I used to use battery powered bike lights with the lumens to illuminate very little! These days I work from home, so night-time adventures are rare, but when I’m completely fed up with indoor training, these tips will come into play. Thanks 😊

  • @jamesowen418
    @jamesowen418 4 года назад +34

    I wear my sunglasses at night so I can , so I can, see the light that's right before my eyes.

    • @mattiasandersson2315
      @mattiasandersson2315 4 года назад +1

      Corey hart!

    • @WeabooMoe
      @WeabooMoe 2 года назад

      Yeah, that's why I use The Blinking Lights at some of the incoming vehicles that don't switch to their Low Light from the bright main light.

  • @LUCYDIAMONDBOXER1
    @LUCYDIAMONDBOXER1 4 года назад +356

    I had my teeth whitened for extra visibility.

    • @brendangray
      @brendangray 4 года назад +5

      Great idea

    • @LUCYDIAMONDBOXER1
      @LUCYDIAMONDBOXER1 4 года назад +8

      @@brendangray cheers. I used to use a luminous felt tip to colour in my teeth before I could afford the teeth whitening 👍

    • @mykola_kanyuk
      @mykola_kanyuk 4 года назад +10

      are they also red from the backside?

    • @LUCYDIAMONDBOXER1
      @LUCYDIAMONDBOXER1 4 года назад +16

      @@mykola_kanyuk No I turn my head and stick my red tongue out at 2 second intervals. Saved me a fortune in lights. 😅

    • @KithumAnuditha
      @KithumAnuditha 4 года назад +1

      Agreed 👍

  • @johnnydoe66
    @johnnydoe66 4 года назад +24

    I recommend carry a cheap taillight in your pocket for a backup when riding at night. I have had my taillight just quit working for no reason, I had just charged it that evening, but it decided to die permanently. I now carry a simple LED light that's good for up to 2 hrs and is small, but bright for that reason as my backup

    • @willek1335
      @willek1335 4 года назад +1

      What brand is that?

    • @johnnydoe66
      @johnnydoe66 4 года назад +1

      @@willek1335 My original was a Hotshot Micro that quit, my backup is a Blackburn, but I can't remember the model. On flash mode it's good for 2 hrs, small, and just uses a rubber band to strap to the seatpost

    • @supernoodles908
      @supernoodles908 4 года назад

      @@willek1335 I have these little button lights as a back up. They're were £20 for the both of them

    • @NicholasElliott
      @NicholasElliott 4 года назад +3

      I always carry backup lights - 2x small button ones and one 3W torch, just in-case. They've come in handy a few times during the winter when the main light batteries don't last as long as usual.

    • @kalilebron007
      @kalilebron007 4 года назад +3

      I agree. I always carry 2 taillights.

  • @alexleonard3561
    @alexleonard3561 4 года назад +4

    I've always enjoyed biking at night - it's great in the summer when it's too hot during the day. One of my favourite rides is along the Lake Ontario waterfront from the east end of Toronto to Frenchman's Bay in Pickering.

  • @711493
    @711493 4 года назад +7

    Inspired me to ride into the sunrise in the morning. I usually wimp out when it’s dark at 6 am but I’ll give it a go 😊

  • @brianloughnane781
    @brianloughnane781 4 года назад +3

    Last night was my first night ride, full darkness. I was surprised to see this today. I learned that I need a brighter headlight. I will do it again.

  • @gfooo6112
    @gfooo6112 4 года назад +4

    My top tips: two lights on the front and two on the back. That way if one fails, or you forgot to charge it, you won’t disappear from a driver’s view half way through your ride. Other tip is cheap valve lights - a bit gimmicky but gives visibility from the side which is important for bigger roundabouts where you can be very vulnerable.

  • @scottbradentx
    @scottbradentx 2 года назад +1

    more reflective gear
    especially ankles and calves
    also, use a white light pointed at your torso, to illuminate your body and create a larger visible area for an observer

    • @gcn
      @gcn  2 года назад

      Great tips Scott 🙌

  • @JackRay
    @JackRay 4 года назад +57

    “You’re already in space Connor” 🤣🤣🤣

    • @Ghasi83
      @Ghasi83 3 года назад +1

      Connors face

  • @JimKJeffries
    @JimKJeffries 4 года назад +2

    I night ride regularly, & run two bontrager ion pro rt. I always have them on. Blinking during the day, front and back, steady on the front at night with blinking at night on the rear.
    Having 2 sets allows me to: no longer outriding the battery life of 1: if I am riding fast with both lights on high I no longer out ride my lights: with 2 lights i angle then differently so the amount of lit ground in front of me is greatly improved.
    The other advantage i have found is when I have experienced any problem with the light, bontrager simply swapped it out with a new.
    Keep riding & have fun.

  • @KaijuAlert
    @KaijuAlert 4 года назад +49

    Wearing glasses at night isn't just good for stopping bugs, it's good for stopping debris from the road getting flicked up by cars and hitting you in the eyes, just like during daylight hours 😉

    • @robertdixon8238
      @robertdixon8238 4 года назад +11

      Clear safety glasses from local hardware store.

    • @raybarber9526
      @raybarber9526 4 года назад +3

      @@robertdixon8238 Halfords do them for £5.00. I wear them over my varifocals.

    • @MrTaxiRob
      @MrTaxiRob 4 года назад +1

      3 pair/$5 at Home Depot in the US, 3M brand

    • @OmegaTryce
      @OmegaTryce 4 года назад +1

      @@MrTaxiRob link? cuz I didn't anything in that price range online

    • @WeabooMoe
      @WeabooMoe 2 года назад

      Yep, tried to night ride.
      My light attracted a lot bugs,
      Basically, I just covered my Mouth and nose and just squint so that no bug can get in my eyes.

  • @ramonvanderben8120
    @ramonvanderben8120 4 года назад +3

    One of the best videos on GCN so far! Keep in mind though, that some of your suggestions are not allowed in countries like the Netherlands or Germany. Here in the Netherlands f.e. it is not allowed to use flashing lights, lights mounted on your head or helmet, or to use more than one light shining in the same direction. So wherever you live, check your local legislation.

  • @jimmyramadan96
    @jimmyramadan96 7 месяцев назад +1

    I played and drived a night cycling at February, 23rd 2020 from Minangkabau Airport to Padang City. I have not a bicycle LED lamp but I drived a bicycle with looking a lamp in street.

  • @mathewjames4137
    @mathewjames4137 4 года назад +3

    I bought great lights because I live in the country, AyUps for me. I also recommend getting a modern cycle computer that will allow someone to track you and that will send an alert if you have an accident. I bought a Garmin for this but other brands such as Wahoo do it as well.

  • @tquindt1
    @tquindt1 4 года назад +1

    Blackburn components make flashing amber side lights that clip onto your forks that give you great side visibility when riding at night, too. They are usb rechargeable, inexpensive, and last for several hours. A must have if you ride at night.

  • @mavismcdavis
    @mavismcdavis 4 года назад +2

    I did my first ride in the dark yesterday as it was the first time I got home from work before 4pm. Set off in the light, finished in the dark. Had all the kit but didn't stop it being scary, mainly from being dazzled by oncoming headlights.

  • @ViveSemelBeneVivere
    @ViveSemelBeneVivere 4 года назад +3

    Wow! This is first time I've seen a helmet cover on GCN! After all these years of GCN! Better late than never!

  • @MrEL28
    @MrEL28 4 года назад

    Good tips. I use a flashing red rear light riding in the day for added visibility. Most of my 46km (30 miles) rides in winter end after the sun has set. Starting after 3pm, the sun sets by 5pm so it's dark halfway into the ride. I have a brighter light on the handlebar, and a not-as-bright LED light on my helmet, 2 red blinking lights behind me (one on back of my helmet and one behind my seat) plus a backup rear light. I also carry a tube, toolkit, tire levers and bike pump. I had a flat tire and had to change my innertube in the dark last year, for the first time in years. So be prepared for the unexpected on night rides, especially if you ride alone. I check the weather forecast - no night rides if rain is in the forecast, as visibility declines substantially in the rain + dark.

  • @tomburtchaell5979
    @tomburtchaell5979 4 года назад +5

    Pay attention to temperature. Having it ice up when your miles from home or after you've climbed a hill can make for a scary ride home.

  • @kaufuss
    @kaufuss 4 года назад +1

    I did my first night ride today. Great ride on known roads, not quite so known in the dark.

  • @ollieknight45
    @ollieknight45 4 года назад

    I cycle home from work late at night at least once a week. I have a reflective rucksack cover, semi hi vis jacket, reflective spoke clip on things, front and rear lights, built in helmet light. Recent addition was i brought a role of white reflective tape. Few quid, self adhesive and bright when lit up. Few strips on my helmet and bike frame. I actually find cars give a lot more room at night. I'd even go as far as saying I feel safer.

  • @jaydesimone4297
    @jaydesimone4297 4 года назад +1

    One thing I've noticed is that the angle of bike lights is great for illuminating little dips that are all but invisible during the day.

  • @rowanolliver675
    @rowanolliver675 4 года назад +3

    Thanks for shedding some light on this subject, I was in the dark before this... :)

  • @mattburkey8393
    @mattburkey8393 4 года назад +1

    Now with daylight savings bike to and from work in the dark (And used to work nights). I wrapped 3M reflective tape on different parts of the bike and makes it really stand out at night.

  • @gthack371
    @gthack371 4 года назад +1

    I ride 2x weekly, usually 1.5 hrs a time. But have also done 3 to 4 hr rides at night. Here's what I find. Ride wider tyres if you can. Bit of extra margin for hitting bad surfaces you can't see in time. Local loops to stay closer to home in case of trouble. Know your way on longer rides. Ride familiar routes too, you know the roads and surfaces. Double up rear lights in case one fails, actually run with both on, it's harder to tell a rear light failure whilst riding. Running two separate rear lights at different flashing speeds is also really visible. Run with lots of front capacity so you're never close to running out, I try to leave 2x margin (4hrs for a 2hr ride). Head/helmet torches, particularly off road, are great, and can add an extra front light in case of emergencies. Wrap up warmer, it rarely warms up whilst you're riding into the night.

  • @matt_acton-varian
    @matt_acton-varian 4 года назад +1

    It's also a good idea to carry spare lights (cheaper and maybe uses disposable batteries) in case you forget to charge your main lights or you are out for longer than expected, or they end up failing. I had my front light clip fail on me 5 miles from home and my spare was just enough to get home safely.
    I also have used reflective tape on my wheel rims (not the braking surface), mudguards, and in strategic points on my winter frame. Spoke reflectors are a good idea if they fit.

    • @roilev
      @roilev 4 года назад

      or if/when the main light batteries freezes.

  • @ethanlucas975
    @ethanlucas975 4 года назад

    I cycle in Greater Manchester in the dark quite often - it is lovely once all the traffic has gone!

  • @SurvivalistMedia
    @SurvivalistMedia 2 года назад

    I ride at night and in the evening all the time. Olight makes a flashlight mount that will let you mount any round flashlight. They make 18650 lights that are super bright. You can detach them easily for fixing tires etc. I use three flashing lights plus the olight plus a headlamp. 5 lights total. Plus a reflective strap on both ankles.

  • @Jasonallansmith
    @Jasonallansmith 4 года назад +22

    I use like night riding until I had a dog run out me that I could not see. Heard the growling and the nails on the pavement, but couldn’t see it. Never sprinted so hard though!

    • @danmar007
      @danmar007 4 года назад

      "I use like night riding until I had a dog run out me" Are you saying you no longer use it?

    • @davidhale8034
      @davidhale8034 4 года назад +4

      Oh poor danmar, in desperate need of attention?

    • @2wheelsr2wheels39
      @2wheelsr2wheels39 4 года назад +3

      Possibly a Covid-19 infected werewolf? Lucky to escape with your life.

    • @prestachuck2867
      @prestachuck2867 4 года назад

      A small 150-300 lumen light mounted to the helmet is crucial for such situations. Make certain that the helmet light you choose has a spot focus rather than a flood (wide) beam. It will be less likely to blind oncoming motorists, and you can more clearly see wherever you turn your head with fewer lumens.

    • @SteveofArms
      @SteveofArms 4 года назад

      @@prestachuck2867 ģ

  • @jacintabrielle3011
    @jacintabrielle3011 4 года назад +1

    I only go riding at night! Usually leave at 7:30pm and come back around 9pm. The weather is so much cooler and there’s almost no cars on the road. We usually leave in groups of 5-10 people for extra safety 😊

  • @aminatah
    @aminatah 4 года назад

    Thanks very much for your videos, i love watching them. I realized last week that i actually could ride at night and i'm definitely gonna do it in the futur

  • @jhcycling3098
    @jhcycling3098 4 года назад +2

    Even it’s dark almost whole time at winter I still prefer midnight because it’s only time to go highways.. other roads (especially bike lanes!) usually are undrivable because winter ice and sharp sand on ice/asphalt to make friction. On ice with road bike no possibilities to ride and that ”sand” punctures tires on first minute. Only way is the salted highway outside normal traffic time. Yep, with lights into total darkness... madness!

  • @adventuresinnorfolk4756
    @adventuresinnorfolk4756 4 года назад +1

    Spare lights and/or batteries. I have a set of clip on pound store lights just incase my main lights go down. Also I have another on the back so I have one brigh solid light and one blinking to make myself more visible.

  • @goldenshowercap9395
    @goldenshowercap9395 4 года назад

    Rear lights: at night, or even daytime when conditions aren't the best, I use two rear lights in case one fails (insufficiently charged, broken, or even falls off). One flashing but not a strobe-like flash, just a steady on-ff flash, and one on steady/ pulsate. The flash serves to catch the eye, the steady or pulsating light makes it easier to judge distance.
    Also, when I see a vehicle approaching or I'm approaching a junction I often momentarily switch my front light to flash/ pulsate for the same reason.

  • @panzerveps
    @panzerveps 4 года назад +18

    Hum the Knight Rider melody, and don't change the name from Night Ride on Strava.

  • @FichenScheiss1
    @FichenScheiss1 4 года назад +2

    Agreed. Invest in lights to see and be seen at night.

  • @vinnyjhawer7847
    @vinnyjhawer7847 4 года назад +1

    Riding in the dark is my favourite time to hit the roads. Love using my lights.

  • @danielurbina9997
    @danielurbina9997 4 года назад

    It was customary to ride in Lima before dawn back in the pre Covid days but always through well light streets. Thankfully we did not suffered any problems.

  • @Reanimator999
    @Reanimator999 4 года назад

    I've been riding my bike at night @ 11pm for past 3 years due to my night shift.
    Other than head and tail lights and bright clothes, I recommend wheel lights (Monkey Light for example) for extra visibility.

  • @yoyomirortv
    @yoyomirortv 3 года назад

    Thank you for providing tips and information. I'm in the mood for horror night cycling.

  • @JBOP20
    @JBOP20 4 года назад +69

    Something other than election coverage to watch!!!!!!

    • @danmar007
      @danmar007 4 года назад +1

      I haven't seen any election videos. :-)

    • @zl0j
      @zl0j 4 года назад

      What election?

  • @s0nofp2l
    @s0nofp2l 4 года назад

    Love Manon's tights, noticed them in the Halloween video and wondered what they were. Glad you . . . shed some light . . . on the matter.

  • @stuarttoomey703
    @stuarttoomey703 4 года назад

    Rode around Gower (South Wales) last night. Jittery sheep are THE things to watch out for.

  • @playandteach
    @playandteach 4 года назад +9

    Anyone else remember the heavy but dim old battery lights that leaked chemicals in the wet. This is one area that has massively improved with modern technology.

    • @HweolRidda
      @HweolRidda 4 года назад +2

      Also, modern batteries continue to work well below freezing! I went through a middle stage with NiCd batteries. NiCds work fine in the cold but they had terrible capacity.

  • @jasonsidebottom-butlerside1839
    @jasonsidebottom-butlerside1839 4 года назад

    Haven’t done a night ride in a few years, looking to do one this Thursday as spin isn’t on at the gym can’t wait to go 😀

  • @stafgruglnioe5122
    @stafgruglnioe5122 4 года назад +14

    be aware: when riding on your bike your eyes adjust better to the daylight left than drivers who already have their heidlights on the entire time. So Even if you think it's still bright enough to see everything this might not be the same for car drivers. Better switch on those lights early!

  • @alexdejong312
    @alexdejong312 4 года назад +5

    Make sure your lights are pointing a bit down onto the road! Other road users still want to be able to see something else than the bright light from your bike.

  • @mjsylver
    @mjsylver 4 года назад

    A pair of Serfas elume 1600 for the front, one to see and one to be seen. Lezyne zecto 250 on the back. I always run lights day and night, flashing in the daylight, on for early ride to work 2 times a week in the dark.

  • @wolf-walker
    @wolf-walker 4 года назад

    I love riding at night. No one around to bother me on back roads.
    I have a pretty bright light mounted to my helmet that works great. Some reflective on my backpack, back of my helmet, ect.

  • @tinobommelino3376
    @tinobommelino3376 4 года назад

    I ride at night twice a week. It‘s much nicer to ride at 4 or 5 in the morning than in the evening. Much less traffic and a nicer outdoor expierience. I use a supernova airstream. Works brilliant. Flashing rear lights are Important. For some reason the speed riding in the dark is about 2 km/h lower. But sunrise on the bike is a extraordinary expierience.

  • @sventice
    @sventice 4 года назад +1

    In some areas, it is not legal to use a flashing headlight. Also, as someone who rides in the dark pretty much all winter long, flashing headlights are super annoying, both to the user and to other cyclists. I think it's wiser to just keep the light on a steady setting.

  • @Llanchlo
    @Llanchlo 4 года назад

    Been riding eight years, but have done more night riding this year already than in previous seven combined. Biggest gripe is that on dark unlit roads 90% car drivers do not dip their lights for a mere cyclist. You then simply cannot see (a) the road surface to spot unexpected potholes and (b) the road edge - critical if road is not straight.

  • @KerenWang
    @KerenWang 4 года назад +2

    Some countries require you to have a permanent-on light. Additional flashing light is up to you. Check your local requirements.

  • @peterleffler2062
    @peterleffler2062 4 года назад

    I use flashing LEDs front and back in the UK all the time. That way there can be no excuses for not seeing me.
    You can now get jackets that are made entirely of reflective material. They show up better than anything else I've seen. You can also get a reflective aerosol spray that will spray on clothing or bike but is only visi6in the dark when a light shines on it. I think it washes off after a while so its maybe not very "green" but might be helpful if you only have black gear available or you need a confidence boost!

    • @roilev
      @roilev 4 года назад

      For the reflectives to work there needs to be a light to reflect. And with the low beams there may not be any light hitting the cyclist at all. Or if the vehicle comes at an angle. Or if they 'forgot' to turn on the lights. It is better to combine the 3 elements - reflectors, emitters and colours.

  • @timryder4804
    @timryder4804 4 года назад

    Love the advice and I ride in the dark with 1500lm front and 700lm rear lights for as long as I can. But I do wish that drivers think that there may be others on the road. Just recently (Bruce County Ontario, Canada, we have had 2 (not related) incidents involving our Mennonite community resulting in 6 deaths (Inc. 2 children and 1 horse). We can illuminate/reflect as much as necessary, but all vehicle operators need to take responsibility and be thoughtful (OK yeah).

    • @roilev
      @roilev 4 года назад

      700 is overkill for the rear. My front light is 400lm and I point it down so not to blind the oncoming traffic. Is it 70lm instead?

  • @Mikicomi23
    @Mikicomi23 4 года назад

    I ride at night very often. I use a flashlight powered by a 18650 rechargeable battery, attached to the handlebar with a standard gopro mount. Its Very powerful and long lasting. Plus always two small flashing red light on the seatpost and helmet.

    • @roilev
      @roilev 4 года назад

      and you can carry spare 18650s in your back pocket (in a ziplocked bag)

  • @speeddemon2314
    @speeddemon2314 4 года назад +1

    I ride at night and in the early morning hours for school, and some of the things I do to stay safe is I ride streets that have very little use.

  • @zl0j
    @zl0j 4 года назад

    You can probably get Manon talking to me about some most boring thing in the world and I would still find it amazing 🔥

  • @doitpulis
    @doitpulis 4 года назад

    Just started cycling in the pitch black .....where i'm located in Spain there is nothing but blacked out country roads, but I finally invested in a good front lamp, with replaceable batteries if you fancy going longer than 90 minutes ....and a decent back light, along with a standard clip on LCD. It's a rare thing though to see in Spain ....not sure i've ever seen a cyclist ride in complete darkness here. So I certainly feel like the only one out there.

  • @petewatts30
    @petewatts30 Год назад

    I have a cat eye volt 1200 I find the low constant with a flash mode in built up areas really makes drivers pull in and give way, normal mode for dark roads and high when there's no on coming traffic on very dark roads.

  • @ChrisGuarraia
    @ChrisGuarraia 4 года назад +1

    Noxgear’s light vest is also a good option for making yourself visible at night. It’s comfortable and lightweight. I’ve used it once on the bike and many times on runs.

    • @gcn
      @gcn  4 года назад +1

      For sure a light up vest/highly reflective clothing is really useful for night rides

    • @WeabooMoe
      @WeabooMoe 2 года назад +1

      I just bought a Reflective Tape.
      Just add a few in my Pedal, wheel, and helmet.

  • @jansprij2858
    @jansprij2858 4 года назад

    When riding back from work at night, don't forget to eat a small snack or gel (depending on the work you do, maybe). I am an agility trainer and it happened to me that I ran out of fuel 10k before I got home. It ended up to be the longest and darkest ride ever

  • @florianmeier3186
    @florianmeier3186 4 года назад

    Flash light setting is forbidden in many countries and this is for good reasons: It is difficult for other road users to estimate the distance and it is much more dazzling as the eyes don't know if to adapt for dark or brightness. As I use to ride regularly in the dark especially also in winter only a light driven by hub dynamo was acceptable as all kind of battery suffer if it is below -15°C or fails in worst moment. On the other hand dynamo on the tyre fails often under snowy or rainy conditions. However, bike lights are much better than some years ago. Especially LED made a big difference. I remember a night ride through a narrow lane downhill through the forest. At that time only old fashioned light bulbs existed. I was looking upward into the sky to find the way as the ground was too dark to see anything even the road itself was invisible as there were no lines painted on it and no reflecting posts. Compared to that bright LED is a real revolution.

  • @bikepackingadventure7913
    @bikepackingadventure7913 4 года назад +1

    We really need company’s to develop better road specific beam patterns for U.K. riding.
    I put black reflective tape on the outsides of my crank arms. Still look black cranks during the day, but highly reflective movement at night.
    I’ve also put black reflective strips on opposite sides on my wheels. Still look ok during the day, but the reflective movement of the wheels are really eye catching at night.

  • @ryanvandyke2675
    @ryanvandyke2675 4 года назад

    Lights that flash briefly and then slowly pulse are best for visibility. With only flashing lights, it can be hard for motorists to judge their distance from you. But with a flash to get their attention and then a slow pulse, you can be seen and they can more easily judge their distance from you.

  • @curtisf.r6233
    @curtisf.r6233 4 года назад

    Night riding is cool, love it more so in the dark early morning's 👍😎 cheers GCN, cool video💯

  • @lazylonewolf
    @lazylonewolf 2 года назад

    Wasn't even aware of high vis helmet covers until this video, thanks.

  • @jabehauber
    @jabehauber 4 года назад

    BTW in colder weather, I wear my DHB Flash Light rain jacket, layered as necessary for temperature. They are literally brilliant - the reflective surfaces are a cannot miss for visability. From a car driver's perspective, I think the jacket is more effective than the lights.

  • @DarynRod
    @DarynRod 2 года назад

    I ride when I get home, off of work after midnight. I check in before I leave and run a 640lumen olight bar light. Im usually out till 130AM. Cooler, and less traffic.

  • @markusmencke8059
    @markusmencke8059 4 года назад +34

    Glasses should always be worn. Not just because of bugs - sand, dust, little stones in your eyes can end your ride... forever.

    • @supernoodles908
      @supernoodles908 4 года назад +3

      Get some clear lens glasses

    • @TheRaleighChopper
      @TheRaleighChopper 4 года назад +2

      Handy if you have buggered eyesight too!

    • @jasonpaige06
      @jasonpaige06 4 года назад +1

      Should I ask for a bit of context......?

    • @ViveSemelBeneVivere
      @ViveSemelBeneVivere 4 года назад +1

      "Glasses should always be worn" but I prefer glasses should always be new.

  • @eloyanzola
    @eloyanzola 4 года назад

    this is great explanation on lights, but omg Connor and Manon look like it might have been cooooold

  • @adriankrucker2159
    @adriankrucker2159 4 года назад

    Actually in summer, on those really hot days we had in Switzerland (and the world in general), I rode as much as possible at night. Those have even been some of the finest rides ever: long sunsets, and the feeling of how the temperature falls afterwards, is awesome. Furthermore, especially since we have the covid-troubles, there were at times just too many users on the multi-use paths. So riding from dawn to night, you were rewarded with empty multi-use paths, making you king of the road, or - I guess - king of the multi-use path!
    However, it is in any case important to use good front and rear lights, and reflecting details. I even carry two sets of front lights in case one goes out. Rear lights I run two at once, so if one light fails unbeknownst, one would still be functioning. I take a third rear light, if that situation would occur, so I'd just have that extra rear light at hand. It sounds crazy, but it gives one a peace of mind. And hey, the lights these days are so small, powerful and the weight also is low! I also have so much light with me, because before I reach the multi-use paths I do have to ride through areas with heavy traffic at rush-hour. There is just no excuse for not having a light with you these days, even during day time.
    And almost forgot: I take a headlamp with me. If I have a puncture ore any other mechanical problem a headlamp is just more practical instead of trying to fiddle around with a front light.
    Yeah, LOL, kinda crazy. But all this has proven to be useful.

  • @TexasNightRider
    @TexasNightRider 7 месяцев назад

    Been Riding At Night (1:00 AM - 5:00 AM) On Rural Roads East Of Houston Tx For Years. Dogs And Wildlife Can Be A Problem At Times. I've Been Taken Down Twice By Dogs. Even With The Dogs I Find Riding At Night More Exciting. I Ran Over A Opossum Last Week But Fortunately I Didn't Crash And The Opossum Recovered And Was OK. I Have Also Encountered Some Sketchy Individuals On Foot. As Stated In This Video, Ride Safe Routes And Have Somebody Following You On GPS.

  • @katikater1231
    @katikater1231 4 года назад

    Perfect timing! Just about to buy stronger lights and was unsure about the amount of lumen needed 🙌

  • @Kenshiro188
    @Kenshiro188 4 года назад +33

    I cycled from Torquay to Exeter at night once without bike lights. A harrowing experience and I never recommend that to anyone.

    • @Nicxnz
      @Nicxnz 4 года назад

      how

    • @Handom1
      @Handom1 4 года назад +6

      I once met another driver on the road at dusk who was surprised that it was getting dark earlier and so he brought no lights. Since he still had 45 kilometers to go home that was badly lit or not lit at all, I escorted him home because I had light. 😀

    • @tomrengert1221
      @tomrengert1221 4 года назад +2

      @@Handom1 I've done that a few times 😂

    • @alfabethe1753
      @alfabethe1753 4 года назад +1

      Not even Peugeot drivers?....

  • @tquindt1
    @tquindt1 4 года назад +1

    Love Jon Cannings' Tron Bike.

  • @bababaanarama
    @bababaanarama 4 года назад

    for me was a reflectiv helmet (carnac for example) a game changer for too be more visable. Most exposed position, 360° and not covered by backpac like vest.

  • @cathnz9726
    @cathnz9726 4 года назад

    A constant thing I see in winter here is black kit, followed by a black bag over the top. Any reflective panels on the tops are negated by covering with a backpack.

  • @ronbell7920
    @ronbell7920 4 года назад

    Night riding, cause we all got to go sometime! Thanks GCN!

  • @cheetahkba9811
    @cheetahkba9811 4 года назад +5

    Woohoo early
    I ride my bike every single day btw.
    Can't live without it.

  • @aligra85
    @aligra85 4 года назад

    I ride at night with handlebar end lights. These make it look like more than one bike from the rear and also light up the frame well so it's visible from the sides. Cheap to.

  • @sd14618
    @sd14618 4 года назад

    Really good advice for night time riding, but one thing I feel you missed out on is the "seeing" vs "being seen" lights. It's all well and good having a really bright torch light that lights up the road and doesn't blind oncoming vehicles. However, I think it's important to point out the importance of "being seen" lights.

  • @leissp1
    @leissp1 4 года назад +1

    Having done many rides during darkness both commuting, on brevets and ultra rides I have some points to consider. First headlights should be TUV compatible with a beam cutoff that prevents blinding oncoming vehicle drivers and other road users. Second Lumens are not as important as how the beam is focused. Reflector design that focuses the light where it is needed is crucial. I use a hub generator and led headlight so no need for batteries and it's always there when I need it. You can't have too much rear light either I use LED taillights on steady mode especially when riding with others as flashing mode is just annoying. Reflective clothes at night helps a lot. In France for example you can not ride at night without wearing a reflective vest. Reflective ankle bands are also a good choice as the movement makes drivers extra cautious.
    I actually like riding at night a lot as its peaceful and generally less traffic to deal with. Just be wary at pub/bar closing time.

    • @roilev
      @roilev 4 года назад

      I haven't done a brevet at night though I consider that -- sounds like fun! I also have a (relatively) low power light with a cutout (like the car's low beams) that runs 100% even when riding bike paths with heavy oncoming traffic. But I also have powerful Cree XM-L6 flashlight with external batteries (I carry a spare pack for the long rides) but I turn it on only when there is no oncoming traffic or riding trails. I also have two very dim lights strapped to my fork legs, pointing outwards and slightly upwards, and blinking. They are very dim so they don't blind any oncoming traffic (I can stand in front of my bike looking directly at them) but help with me being visible at angle. And last for 10+ hours in that mode.
      Same is at the back, one solid light that blinks when it detects traffic behind (Garmin Varia, worth its weight in gold). Another light that blinks slowly and not blindingly (I stop it in the city and when other cyclists behind me). And two more weak blinking lights strapped to the seatstays, pointing slightly outwards and upwards, to help with the side visibility.
      I know it sounds too much and complicated, but the blinking lights last 10+ hours. I need to carry only backup for the two front lights.

  • @paulm9079
    @paulm9079 4 года назад

    Love Conor's sense of humour.

  • @rondvivre3636
    @rondvivre3636 4 года назад

    A Low Sun rule of thumb;
    Your shadow points in the direction where motorists cannot see you because the Sun is in their eyes.
    When your shadow is behind, overtaking motorists cannot see you.
    When your shadow is ahead, oncoming traffic cannot see you.
    This concept applies just as well to cross traffic.
    Times of Low Sun are best spent sipping coffee.

  • @gatton225
    @gatton225 4 года назад

    Nightrider events were a great way of riding at night...let’s hope they reappear on the calendar for 2021

  • @JeBaSIINGH23
    @JeBaSIINGH23 4 года назад +18

    I put my front LED lights on siesure mode so everyone on the road knows I'm there 🤣

  • @charliewilson3528
    @charliewilson3528 4 года назад

    I use 8500 lumens in the front usually flashing. And three rear red flashing lights in the rear at 100 lumens. Works great so far.
    Look for waterproof if you don't want to be annoyed.

  • @glensainsbury428
    @glensainsbury428 4 года назад +1

    I once had to use my mobile phone torch purched on my handlebars to get me home. I now alway carry a spare set of cheepo lights in my back pack.

  • @timvonr2802
    @timvonr2802 4 года назад

    I love the reflective patterns build into the cycling kit Decathlon has some really good ones.
    Something need to be more build in some kits from stock.
    I also don’t Know, why More of the helmet manufacturers jump on the train of building in light into their helmets (at last the casual not roadbike specific lightweight ones) like some Chinese helmets do (lumos/livall)