Bike lights

Legal regulations on bicycle lights vary from country to country, but generally follow some common guidelines to ensure road safety. Here are some common provisions:

• Mandatory: many jurisdictions require the use of front and rear lights during hours of darkness or in low visibility conditions.
• Technical specifications: Lights must meet certain technical specifications, such as light intensity and mode of operation.
• Colours and positioning: Front lights should generally be white, while rear lights can be red. Specific positioning and angles may be regulated.
• Flashing modes: In some jurisdictions, the use of flashing modes for lights is only permitted under certain circumstances.
• Power supply and autonomy: laws may require lights to be powered by batteries or dynamo generators, and must provide sufficient autonomy.
• Penalties: there may be penalties for those who do not comply with bicycle light regulations.

For specific information on the regulations in your area, it is advisable to consult the local highway code or contact the relevant authorities.

The recommended light intensity for bicycle lights may vary depending on lighting conditions and local legislation.
However, some general guidelines may be useful:

• Front: A front light should have sufficient intensity to illuminate the road in front of the cyclist, allowing clear visibility. A minimum of 100 to 300 lumens is often recommended for city use and over 500 lumens for use in dark or rural areas.
• Rear: A rear light should be bright enough to be visible to other road users from a safe distance. Generally, a minimum of 20 to 100 lumens is recommended, but the intensity may need to be adjusted depending on conditions.
• Flashing modes: Lights can have several modes, including flashing. Be sure to comply with local regulations governing the use of flashing modes.

It is important to check local laws and recommendations of the bicycle light manufacturer to ensure compliance and maximum safety. Also consider factors such as battery life and lateral visibility for optimal protection on the road.

The position of the lights on the bicycle is essential to maximise visibility and ensure safety while riding, both during the day and at night.

This is where lights are usually placed on the bicycle:

1. HANDLEBARS
   Many front lights are mounted on the handlebar, facing forward to illuminate the road. Make sure they are positioned so as not to blind other road users.
2. SADDLEBOARD
   Rear lights are often mounted on the seatpost or seat tube. Position it so that it is visible from behind, adjusting the angle if necessary.
3. FORK AND SPOKES
   Adding side lights, placed on the fork or wheel spokes, improves visibility from different angles.
4. PEDALS
   Some cyclists choose lights integrated into the pedals or clip-on lights to improve visibility from the side when the pedals are in motion.
5. HELMET
   Mounting a small light on your helmet can increase visibility, especially when turning your head or riding in intersections.
6. CLOTHING
   Adding reflective elements to clothing, such as a reflective gilet, or using clip-on lights can improve a cyclist's visibility.

Always check that lights are securely attached and correctly orientated before each ride.