Originally Posted by operator
Is there a point we'll get to before people start strapping car headlights with lead acid setups to their bikes? Some of this stuff looks just a wee bit overkill unless you're driving in total darkness or something.
Well, I've thought about it...
From what I've read, the newest, most highly-praised (and marketed) bike lights sold today are comparable to car headlights in intensity and cost in the $500 range. Many people have them.
The most I sport on my bike is a special 20W light that is comparable in brightness to a 35W, 8-degree narrow spot (sent to me by an unusually kind friend, free of charge.) Car headlights are 55W each, for a total of 110W, aren't they?
In the winter, I ride in total darkness for the first leg of my commute. In addition, I find a bright light makes me noticable to motorists in the rain, under bridges, in the shade, or when lost amidst a sea of other bright lights.
Finally: can you see the road in total darkness while cruising at 20 mph?
Try this test: park your bike by your mailbox at night with the headlight on, then walk 220 feet away. Can you see that light easily? Good, because a motorist approaching you at 35 mph. will pass by you 3 seconds later.
Now, try this test. Park your bike on a busy street where there are lots of cars, street lights, neon lights, distractions, etc. Get a friend to drive the opposite direction, with the radio/cd playing, maybe a little conversation. Ask your friend if he/she ever saw your bike, without telling them to look for it.
Finally, can you see the road in front of you while cruising at 20 mph. in total darkness?