Cyclist should be using two types of lighting, "See" and "Be Seen" lighting. THat is, lighting to see by, and lighting to be seen by.

To see, I use a NiteRider MiNewt500, which is supposedly 500 lumens, and I'd like it to be just a little brighter. However, I like the pattern, which is a bright spot, plus a fair abount of curb-to curb illumination. It clips to my handle bars and I attach it to all three of my bikes.

To be seen I rely on some LED blinkies, an LED flashlight and reflectors and reflective tape.

One thing I read about on bikeforums, and it really seems to work, is to have "be seen" lights up on your helmet, where they can be seen above many vehicles in traffic. I prefer lights with 180-degree or more visibility.

Also , adding a little reflective tape to your helmet, bike and bags (if any) really helps. And a reflective vest or sash, or clothing.

Here is my lighting setup from 2016. Since then I've added LED Monkey-Lights to the front wheel, and I now own a pair of LED sneakers (I ride with toe clips, so any shoes work).


I highly recommend front and rear