Bicycle lighting / bike lights

Buying advice for: Bicycle lighting / bike lights

• Types of lighting

  Front lights and rear lights are the two main types of bicycle lighting. Front lights illuminate the path in front of the bike and increase the rider's visibility, while rear lights increase the visibility of the bike for other road users. Front lights are available in various designs, from simple battery lights to powerful LED lights. Rear lights are often red and can either light up continuously or flash to attract attention. Dynamo lighting is another common type of bicycle lighting. These lights are powered by a dynamo that is either integrated into the hub or mounted as a side-running dynamo. They offer the advantage that they do not require batteries and are therefore always ready for use as long as the bike is in motion. Battery-powered lighting offers flexibility and is easy to install. These lighting systems are either rechargeable or use replaceable batteries. They are often brighter and more durable than dynamo lights and are particularly suitable for cyclists travelling in areas with insufficient street lighting.

• Lighting brands

  Some of the leading brands in bicycle lighting are Busch & Müller, Lezyne, Cateye, and Knog. Busch & Müller is known for its high-quality dynamo and battery-powered lighting systems, which impress with their reliability and durability. Lezyne offers innovative and powerful LED lighting solutions that are characterised by their elegant design and high light output. Cateye is an established brand that offers a wide range of battery-powered and rechargeable lights. Knog stands for creative and stylish lighting that is not only functional but also visually appealing. Another leading supplier is Sigma Sport. It offers a wide range of lighting systems that impress with their high light output as well as their user-friendliness.

• Materials and workmanship

  The materials and workmanship of bicycle lighting are decisive for its durability and performance. High-quality lighting systems often use aluminium or high-quality plastics, which are both light and robust. Aluminium housings are particularly resistant to impact and weathering. High-quality plastics offer a good balance between weight and stability and are often weather-resistant. The workmanship also plays a major role. Precisely manufactured housings ensure that the lights are waterproof and impact-resistant, which is particularly important in adverse weather conditions. Rubber seals and sealed connections contribute to the longevity and reliability of the lighting.

• Technical features

  Modern bicycle lighting systems are characterised by numerous technical features that increase visibility and user-friendliness. LED technology offers high light output with low energy consumption and a long service life. Rechargeable batteries enable easy and environmentally friendly use as they can be recharged via USB or other charging devices. Light modes, such as different brightness levels and flashing modes, offer flexibility depending on the riding situation and environment.