Bike Lights!

Can you believe that there is a science to choosing Bicycle lights? Bike lights serve 2 purposes (1) Seeing what is ahead of you (2) Being seen from behind you. See and Be Seen!

Have you ever noticed on all bicycles you see in most stores across the state and even in other Countries all have front and back reflectors. The front being a white reflector and the back being a red reflectior. Of course you haven't who actually goes in the store and make sure the bike has these reflectors. Well we are here to inform you that having these reflectors are required by law.

The State of Wisconsin bike law states that bicycling at night requires at least one white front headlight, a rear red reflector and/or a red rear light. No person may operate a bicycle during hours of darkness without these minimum requirements. Your red reflectors has to be mounted, at least 2 inches of the surface area and visible from 50- 500 feet. If you are using a light or lamp for the rear it needs to be red flashing or steady and visible of 500 feet. [347.489(1)]. If you ride without these required lights and reflectors the Police can stop you.

I am sure other States have varies requirements so make sure you double check your State Laws.

Vehicles have white front light and red rear lights, bike lights follow this same fashion to keep it consistent. With that being said Be sure to choose your lights bright enough to be seen by other vehicles.

Bicycle lights have different lumen ratings, the lens and bulb housing contributes to the brightness levels. They offer narrroe beams which brightens at a greater distance then wider beams. However wider beams improves your peripheral vision. Making both these type of lights idea. Can you have both? In the State of Wisconsin you can. These is no law stating that there is a maximum amount of lights you can have. You may not need to buy two there may be a light out there that provides that needed peripheral vision at the required distance you want and need. Remember to Check your State Laws.

You pay for what you get. The price of the light is going to determine how bright the light is and how long the light will last. So make sure you shop around for the best deal.

Consider purchasing back up lights in case if an emergency. If you are off road biking purchase off road lights. Helmets lights are a wise purchase as well.
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