Tooling through the wooded terrain on 29-inch knobby tires can be a lot of fun, accompanied by the excitement of the off-road experience. However, if the rider is having too much fun to pay attention to the clock, and end up riding into the night, having mountain bike lights to illuminate the path can bring them home safely.
Additionally, when making the last leg of the ride back home, even in daylight, mountain bike lights can make the rider more visible to other vehicles on the road, improving their chance of making the trip without a mishap. While many riders prefer not to install mountain bike lights on their rides, citing a lack of need for daytime use, others will have them installed for the benefit of the rare occasions when they may be needed.
The most simple mountain bike lights are those that clamp to the handlebars and are operated by battery. Problem with this type is that when the batteries run low, the lights go out and the rider is in the dark. The more advanced lights may also have batteries, but are powered by a small generator powered by the turning wheels on the bike. When the bike is stopped, batteries run the lights and when in motion, the generator supplies the power.
Night Races Illuminate Need For Better Lights
Many mountain bike races are also offering night runs and mountain bike lights will be necessary to complete the courses after the sun goes down. With some races running cross-country in a day and night format having quality equipment lighting the way can be the difference between finishing the race and walking in the dark.
Beyond the ‘D’ cell battery-powered lights; there are small rechargeable batteries that strap to the bike’s frame, kept charge by small, tire-powered generators that provide power for mountain bike lights ranging in power from 12 to 30 watts. These can include flood lamps that light a wider view of the approaching track along with a two-bulb system that supplies flood lights and focused lighting for better viewing of the upcoming landscape.
Those riding strictly during the day will probably have to reason to worry about mountain bike lights, however for the many who participate in riding events that often run 24-hours a day, having the lights will be a necessary part of their racing equipment. They may also want to consider a red taillight to let those following them know their position to prevent unnecessary meetings.
