Buyers Guide : Cycling Lights

Unlike on a car choosing a light is barely a consideration, a cyclist must choose its light carefully depending on its riding condition. Bicycle light is an essential accessories a rider must have on there bike. Here is our quick guide on different options and what you need to look out for while Buying a Bicycle Light.

Bicycle Lights are divided into two categories one which help you to see the road ahead and second that helps others to see you. 

Lights to see Vs Lights to be seen 

The first question you ask your self before shopping for a bicycle light is do you need a light to see or a light to be seen?

Lights that help you See will usually have a greater brightness , a bigger battery and a narrow beam angle so that rider can see into a longer distance. while on the other hand the lights that help you be seen are less focused on Beam angles as there Priority is to be seen from every angle possible hence they also use lasers and optical illumination to make rider more visible on the roads. 

Light Terminologies 

Lumens : Lumens is a Measure that indicates total Number of Light emitted by a given source. The higher the Lumens the Brighter the Light. 

Lux: Lux is the measure of intensity of light on the surface area. Mostly it is measured at a distance of one to ten meters. The larger the surface area the lux value will be lower and visa a versa for the same lumens. 

Beam Angle: beam angle is the measure on how much the light spreads after coming from its source. Some lights have a acute beam angle that focuses on a spot in a circle (Lux is Higher). white some have a wider beam angle which spreads (Lux is lower). 

Beam Type: High, Low, Flashy and many more . There are number of beam types you will encounter on a light. These beam types is different with different brands. The type of beam setting you choose affects the Lumens and the battery life you get out of your Light. A good quality Light should have atleast three beam setting. 

Burn time: Burn time is the time your light takes to go from a full charge to a complete flat. 

so if you are commuting and need a light to see go for a light with higher lumens and a wider beam angle, this light will give you a good spread and help you look at the road ahead . And if you ride on a well lit road and are looking for a light to be seen opt for a low lumens. Once you've established the light provides sufficient visibility, factors such as price, size, weight, durability and the intended use will all play a role in choosing the right light.