I would like to use my bike for for short "runs" to the grocery store or to the local stores but most of my local runs are later... how many really use there bike to make runs to the store when its dark out?

Me! Especially in the winter. Short days mean that all my riding is done (at least partially) in the dark.

I often do I bought a set of grocery bag panniers that go on and off the rack fast. I save a lot of money, I have to make sure what I buy fits in those 2 bags. Anything else is not needed.

Same here. But we're getting to the late sunset season so I took my headlight off.

Definitely, I use the bike to make beer runs but I have been cutting back on beer so sometimes I jump on the bike to pick up something we forgot in the big grocery run.
Why wouldn't you just turn your blinky light on and go? The store is across the street from where I live so it makes it easy for me to say but I love the nightly store trip.

I don't much. I'm an early bird, so I'm happier going out first thing in the morning. And a lot of my shopping is at local farmer's markets, which tend to open at 6-9am. In winter, it's more likely, since around here it can be dark at 4pm.

If I need to go somewhere, I go. Light or dark, rain or shine, hot or cold...

Helps to have lights, rain gear, and winter kit, though.

Yep, my wife and I both commute and run errands extensively at night after dark. Rack, panniers, and lights+reflectors are essential. Riding after dark is fun!

Me! My morning commute is at 0500, it's still dark. I sometimes stop for coffee or breakfast. And if I want to run errands, it has to be after the baby goes to bed.

I do and so do lots of others. Riding after dark is no biggie if you are properly equipped and ride correctly. Just make sure to have good headlights, bright blinkies on the back and seek out routes that offer the least traffic, preferably well lighted.

I ride at all hours. Just get some good lights.

Ditto...that is why I prefer the generator hubs, one less thing to forget and they are always there, just like the lights on a car.

Aaron

Good lights are the key. I don't have a generator hub, though; I use a Fenix L2D premium as my only headlight with two Planet Bike Super Flash rear blinkies. All told, including the two fish lock block that attaches the Fenix to my handlebars, I spent about $110 for a very practical lighting system for myself.

I think the biggest problem is not understanding that this can be done. The key is to get out and do it a couple of times to get your confidence up, and then you'll realize it's not that much different than in the day, except it is more peaceful and cool. I prefer riding at night during the spring and summer

I do most of my grocery shopping in the middle of the night. I have a 24 hour grocery store nearby and I work weird hours, so I'll frequently be in there after midnight rolling my bike through the aisles and placing items in my panniers. Like others have said, good lights are important. I recommend Fenix and/or Dinotte for headlights/taillights; Planet Bike Superflash if you're looking for a cheaper (but much dimmer) taillight than the Dinotte. I also consider reflective clothing and bike mounted reflectors to be essential for riding at night. Boston Industrial is a good source for the reflective clothing. I like the Class III reflective windbreaker for riding on cool nights. The stripes on the sleeve really help people see when I am signaling a turn.

Once you get the proper lighting and reflective gear, riding at night can feel safer than riding during the day. There are less cars on the road, and the motorists that are out will be able to see you much better than during the day if you have a good lighting setup.

I am car free. I use my bike regardless of whether its light, dark, hot, cold, wet or dry. I've even had pea sized hail bounce off of my helmet. Oh yeah, mustn't forget sleet. I agree good lights and reflectorized clothing is a must. don't forget a rear-view mirror.

I'm convinced that it's much safer to bike at night with proper lighting than full sun! Nothing says "I'm Here!" like a dozen red blinkies!

I bought lights last fall so I could commute during the shorter days when it got to be pitch black out, but it is nice to still have them on the bike for those days when I am out a bit later.