Having a good lighting system on your bike is not just a matter of regulations, it is also a guarantee of safety and enjoyment, especially if you like to go out at dawn, dusk, or at night.
Choosing the right lights mainly depends on the type of cycling you do. Riding mountain bikes on dark trails is not the same as going out with a road bike to ride on paved roads with traffic. Each style has its own lighting needs.
What to consider when choosing bike lights?
Lumens: the key to power
The power of a bike light is measured in lumens, which indicate the amount of visible light emitted. You can find lights with as few as 5 lumens and others that exceed 8,000. But more is not always better.
It's not just the number of lumens that matters, but also how they are distributed: a light can focus its beam on a point or illuminate a wider area. For urban areas, lights with a wide beam are useful. For technical or mountain biking, a focused light that allows you to anticipate obstacles can be more useful.
Battery life and type
Another crucial factor is battery life. Some lights use regular batteries, but the best ones use rechargeable lithium batteries, which offer better performance and are more sustainable. There are two types of configuration:
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Integrated battery: more compact, ideal for short rides.
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External battery: longer duration, recommended for long or demanding rides, such as on mountain bikes.
Also make sure to check if they include a USB port for recharging and if they allow you to charge other devices.
Types of lights according to the type of bicycle
Lights for mountain bikes: light up your adventure
Mountain bikes require more powerful lighting systems. Night rides on trails and paths without artificial lighting make it essential to have powerful front lights, preferably with more than 1,000 lumens.
Key tips for MTB:
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Combine a handlebar light with a wide beam (about 120º) and another more focused on the helmet.
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Choose lights with external battery for greater autonomy.
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Secure the mounting system to avoid unwanted movement.
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Avoid friction with the frame, especially if it is carbon.
In MTB, the most important thing is not to be seen, but to see clearly. Therefore, although a rear light of 50 lumens may be enough, the front one must offer power, focus, and duration.
Lights for road bikes: visibility above all
If you practice cycling on road bikes, the priority is to be seen by other vehicles, both during the day and at night. The red rear light must be powerful and offer a wide visibility angle, preferably 180º.
Recommendations for road cycling:
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Rear light of minimum 100 lumens, visible even in broad daylight.
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Front light between 200 and 400 lumens, depending on the environment (city or open road).
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Elastic bands or mounting systems compatible with aero seatposts.
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Flashing or automatic lights that adjust their intensity according to ambient light.
For night rides, a good front light with an internal battery may be sufficient, but make sure it fits well on the handlebar and doesn't move with vibrations.
Installation and water resistance
The most basic lights are attached using rubber rings to the handlebar or seatpost. Although they are easy to install, they don't always offer the necessary stability. For powerful lights or those with an external battery, it's better to opt for metal or plastic clamps with screws, which guarantee a more secure attachment.
Also, make sure the lights have good water protection. Look for the IP code on the packaging:
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IP4: splash resistant.
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IP7: submersible up to 30 minutes.
Technology and smart functions
Lights have evolved enormously. Today you can find models with:
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Light sensor that automatically adjusts the intensity.
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Mobile connectivity to control the device from your phone.
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Compatibility with cycle computers and GPS systems.
These innovations are especially useful both on mountain bikes, where rides are often long and unpredictable, and on road bikes, where visibility can save you from an accident.
Each type, its ideal light
Investing in good lights is investing in your safety and your experience as a cyclist. Whether you ride mountain bikes, facing dark trails, or go out on road bikes, sharing space with vehicles, choosing the right light can make all the difference.
It's not just about power, but also usefulness, duration, compatibility, and reliability. Analyze your cycling style and your usual routes before deciding. And remember: to see and be seen are the two sides of the same coin.