I firmly believe that a neon sign carried on my back couldn't hurt at all.
Still, the best investment is:
1) Powerful rechargable front headlights.
2) Blinkies front and rear (I found some under $5.00.)
3) Ray-O-Vac (or similar) rechargable alkaline "AA" or "AAA" batteries with charger, for the blinkies. Rechargable alkalines can be recharged as often as desired. Topping them off frequently insures maximum blinkie brightness.
4) Reflective material on your bike, person, or anywhere you can put it. This can include "slow moving vehicle" reflective triangles,
reflective tape, Scotchbrite, red or amber 3 inch auto reflectors, etc. All are very cheap.
Perhaps the most expensive thing would be the front headlights. But it's worth it. The main thing is, don't settle for the basic equipment that comes with the bike.
Last edited by Pete Clark; 11-15-02 at 10:34 PM.