Originally Posted by
cehowardGS
Now, on to the balance point of blinding others, opposed to being seen and respected for their place on the road. I am almost positive, that 96% of the bicycle riders that are running POWERFUL LIGHTS, don't aim them to blind others..Even so, the momentary discomfort to others, can't hold a candle to our safety. Remember now, 96% of us with bright lights are responsible. So, I don't think that is a problem.
It depends on the environment too. In a busy city scene, don't worry about "blinding" motorists. Give 'em both barrels so you show up against the "noise." Every car coming towards the camera in this shot could have its high beams on, and it still wouldn't "blind" anyone:
On a pitch-dark 2-lane country highway, start worrying about it. In that scenario, I have a small light running at low power (about 200 lumens) and aimed at the pavement about 20 meters out, and a "big gun" (>1200 lumens) aimed out fairly level. When the oncoming cars appear, I shut down my "high beam" (or cover it with my hand) and they get the cue to shut down theirs. I don't need to have enemies on dark country highways that I ride frequently.