The world is full of different types of cyclists. Some swerve through busy city streets on their way to work. Others wait for the weekend and take their bikes to nearby trails to enjoy some fresh air. But whether you’re riding along a path at the beach or taking a leisurely Sunday cycle with your kids, one thing all bikers have in common is the need for safety. That means being visible to others and ensuring the road/path/trail/sand in front of you is also visible.
Bike lights are at the top of the safety list for cyclists right behind helmets (don’t even think about getting on a bike without a helmet). Bike lights ensure that cars and other cyclists or pedestrians can see you coming, which is important even in areas that are brightly lit. Cars move fast, so the brighter you are, the easier it is for drivers to see you and give you ample room.
We also like bike lights because of their durability and compact size, which makes them great options for making yourself visible when doing other activities in the dark, like walking the dog or camping. Heading out for an early morning jog? Strap a bike light to your fanny pack and get running.
Check out these picks for the best bike lights below and stay safe… and bright.
1. Cincred USB Rechargeable Bike Light Set
With an impressive runtime of hours on a single charge, the Cincred USB Rechargeable Bike Light Set can keep you safe and visible all night. The ultra bright 400 lumen LED light comes with a USB cord and charges in two hours, with a high clarity lens making for a headlight that has long-range visibility. The Cincred headlight has low beam visibility, which means it won’t blind drivers or pedestrians but will still light a cyclists’ path. The waterproof Cincred also comes with a bonus rear light for 360-degree visibility. The Cincred has four light modes, including full and half brightness and fast and slow flashing.
Pros: We like that the Cincred light can be removed from the fixed base when charging, meaning users don’t have to detach and reattach the entire light and base anytime it needs to be charged.
Cons: Somewhat expensive.
2. Ascher USB Rechargeable Bike Light Set
Be visible from the front and back with the Ascher USB Rechargeable Bike Light Set, which includes a headlight and taillight that each come with a 650mAh rechargeable lithium USB battery. Like the Cincred, the Ascher lights have four lighting modes and comes with flexible silicone mount straps that make it easy to attach the lights anywhere on a bike or helmet. The Ascher is water-resistant and rated to IPX4.
Pros: Depending on the mode, the Ascher lights can last up to 10.5 hours on one charge.
Cons: The output of the Ascher lights is 140 lumen making them less powerful than the Cincred lights.
3. Malker Bicycle Lights
For lights that are easy to install and versatile, we like the Malker Bicycle Lights. The small but powerful set comes in a pack of four lights, which are made with silicone clips that make it easy to attach the lights to any part of a bike, helmet, backpack and more. The waterproof Malker lights are also resistant against low-impact drops. The Malker have three lighting modes, including high, low and strobe.
Pros: The Malker lights use ultra-bright LEDs that are visible up to half a mile away.
Cons: Although the Malker lights aren’t rechargeable, they come with two lithium-ion batteries that can last between 45-160 hours depending on the lighting mode.
4. BLITZU Gator 320 USB Rechargeable Bike Light Set
These lights from Blitzu easily clip onto a bike using a convenient rubber strap, and the light can be detached from the holder as well for carrying in the hand or recharging via USB. The lights are a good option for cycling in low light conditions because the front light has a bright 320-lumen output. A convenient rear light is also included. The rear light has dual LEDs on either side for increased visibility.
Pros: Front and rear lights included. Front light detaches from the mount, making it easy to use as a flashlight as well. The front light is rechargeable via USB.
Cons: Battery life can decline over time.
5. Schwinn LED Bike Light Accessories
Schwinn is one of the most legendary American bicycle manufacturers, and they also make great bike accessories. These convenient lights clip onto the handlebars and seat post using elastic straps, giving them a universal fit for most handlebars and seat posts. Front and rear lights are included. These lights are also rechargeable.
Pros: Easy on/off lights made by a trusted brand. Rechargeable.
Cons: Could be brighter.
6. Cycle Torch Bolt Combo
The great thing about mini bike lights is that, unlike flashlight style lights, they’re less likely to rotate if you hit a bump. These miniature lights feature an elastic band that clip onto the bike, making them easy to put on and take off. A white front light and a red rear light are included. These lights are rechargeable using micro-USB, so you won’t have to worry about a battery replacement.
Pros: Compact, easy on and off using the elastic bands. Recharges using a USB cord. Includes front and rear lights.
Cons: Could be brighter.