Bike Light Safety

Question from a reader:As a lifelong urban bicyclist, I am interested that you didn't recommend having lights on the bike when riding after dark. I have and wear reflectors, and am aware there is some disagreement as to whether blinking or steady lights are safer. But is there a sense that lights on a bike after dark are not advisable?

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Answer: Any omission about lights was not to suggest they should not be used. I believe a light helps. But riding at night is generally not advisable. There are too many risks. I literally never ride my bike after dark. Blinking lights don’t illuminate the rider or the bike. We use blinking lights during the day to alert drivers of bikers who are already visible. But if you insist on riding at night, any light and reflector is better than nothing. Moreover, use a headlight and a red seat post light. The headlight will help you see the dark road ahead; the red light will let others know something’s there! Safe riding!