Promote 'Enlightened' Cycling
See and Be Seen: essential bike lights for every ride.
Welcome back! I’m excited to launch a new section dedicated to the beloved Brompton bicycles: the Bromptonian. This first post covers bicycle lighting. (Learn more about why you should be keen on bicycling here.) I hope you enjoy!
Having permanent running lights on your bicycle can lead to a 47% lower incidence rate for multiparty bicycle accidents with personal injury.1
The Sun Belt, recently buffeted by powerful thunderstorms, is finally embracing Spring. Warm temperatures have arrived, gentle breezes are in the air, and everything is coming alive with fresh green sprouts. Crystal-clear blue skies, as far as the eyes can see.
This weather is perfect for cycling, and with more cyclists hitting the roads, it's crucial to make sure you're visible to drivers.
Mostly I ride on designated pedestrian/bike lanes, sidewalks, or low-traffic neighborhoods. My Brompton folds easily, making it perfect for quick out-and-back rides.
Since many Monochrome subscribers live in urban areas, being highly visible on your daily commute becomes even more important.
Ideally, all cyclists should use bike lights all the time, regardless of purpose (errands, exercise, leisure, or work). Even though bike light laws vary by location, it's always safest for cyclists to be visible on the road no matter the conditions.
Live in the US? Here are two resources to learn more about bike safety and laws in your state:2
The League of American Bicyclists
When I chose lights for my Brompton, I prioritized features that would make me more likely to use them regularly. Here's what mattered to me:
Fixed - The lights should be stable and aimed correctly, every time I ride.
Rechargeable - Completely eliminates the need for disposable batteries.
LED - Exceeds the required brightness level for road and trail cycling.
Ergonomic - The lights shouldn't take up space needed for my other gear.
Weather-proofing - Durability is important, so I need lights that can withstand rain and moisture.
Variable - I prefer lights with variable brightness and flashing modes for better visibility in different conditions.
Easy Install - Mountable within minutes, not hours.
Long-lasting Charge - Long battery life eliminates the need for frequent charging.
Simple On/Off - I needed buttons I could locate and operate by feel, without having to look down.
After browsing various websites, I narrowed my light choices to two main types: wrap-around lights that attach with magnets or straps to the head tube and seat post, and Brompton's own Be Seen Lights.
The Brompton Be Seen Lights looked tempting due to their compact size (ergonomic in their description), but I held off on choosing them for two reasons. First, I wanted to confirm they were bright enough for good visibility. Second, they required mounting to the bike, and I wasn't particularly enthusiastic about that extra step.
In contrast, the wrap-around lights seemed ideal for cyclists with multiple bikes. They don't require permanent mounting and offer the flexibility to adjust the beam height by sliding them up and down the seat post and head tube.
After some research, my concerns about the Be Seen Lights (brightness and mounting) were allayed. I decided to order them and found them very easy to install. What’s more, they meet all my criteria above, especially: compact size, excellent brightness, and simple operation (one button to turn them on and cycle through previous settings). Because they're so convenient, using them on every ride has become a habit.
No matter what lights you choose, make sure to purchase both a front white light and a rear red light. Ideally, the lights should have adjustable brightness or flash patterns so you can adapt them to different lighting conditions. For me, using bike lights isn't just about keeping city regs; it's about the peace of mind that comes with knowing I'm doing everything possible to stay safe and visible. Have a great (and bright) ride!
This wraps up the first installment of the Bromptonian section of the newsletter! Here, we'll be diving deeper into all things Brompton bikes. Be sure to subscribe for the latest. We're constantly adding new content, like this, and this, so feel free to share with a friend who might also enjoy it.
Lahrmann, H., Madsen, T., & Olesen, A. (2017). Randomized trials and self-reported accidents as a method to study safety-enhancing measures for cyclists-two case studies.. Accident; analysis and prevention, 114, 17-24 . https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aap.2017.07.019.
I found these site to be very helpful, but I encourage you to do your own research, go straight to the source of laws that govern your riding, and seek the counsel of a licensed attorney in your area; please don’t rely on Monochrome for legal advice.