You’ve no doubt noticed a change in the air - it’s definitely getting colder and darker out there. Mornings are a little dimmer and the evenings are drawing in. Whether you’re commuting or just out riding for fun, it pays to ensure you can see and are visible while out on your bike.
With the right lights and hi-viz clothing, there’s no reason to let the changing seasons slow down your riding. Autumn and winter can be a great time on the bike, with quieter lanes and deserted woods just calling out to be explored. Let’s get kitted up and get out there.
Bright is good!
Even in the daytime, the UK in autumn and winter can be a little dull. We seem to live under thick cloud for days on end, so a little colour up top will help you stand out from the crowds. Whether you’re riding in the urban jungle or out in the sticks you can never be too visible.
We have some great gear from North Yorkshire’s Altura and Scottish brand Endura – these guys know a thing or two about riding in poor conditions. With their range of technical clothing, you can keep going no matter how gloomy it gets.
Once it does get dark, strips of reflective material stand out like the proverbial sore thumb in car headlights. Endura splashes these all over their jackets and bib-tights so that as well as being snug and warm you’re safe whatever time of day you’re out riding.
See and be seen
If you’re determined not to let the darkness beat you, you need to invest in some good lights. Whether it’s to see or be seen, the right light set is essential until the sun reappears.
The Light And Motion Pro Set provides more than enough oomph for your rides. The 1000-lumen front beam is plenty whether you’re riding on roads with streetlights or all alone in the woods, powered by one of the most powerful single LED lights on the market. That’s not all – the amber sidelights offer that little bit of extra visibility that other lights don’t.
It’s designed with a waterproof rating of one metre, which we’re pretty sure will get you through even the most torrential of downpours. Seriously, if you’re more than a metre under, we’d suggest you get off and swim!
Modern lights are simple to recharge. They nearly all use a USB connection, so it’s no trouble to plug them in at your desk to ensure they’re ready for the journey home.
Runtimes are getting better and better too – the Light And Motion Vis 180 Pro rear light can keep going for up to 32 hours, even if you can’t, and recharges to full power again in just five.
Keep ‘em peeled
One ride with a specially designed mirror on your bike and you’ll wonder how you managed without one. They add that little extra something so you can enjoy the ride and still keep your eyes on what’s going on all around you. There’s a very good reason cars come equipped with mirrors – having eyes in the back of your head is a good thing on our busy roads.
When you’re riding in the dark you’ll notice an approaching vehicle from a long way away, the car’s lights in your mirror alerting you to their presence. If knowledge truly is power, a bike mirror is just about the most powerful little piece of kit money can buy.
So don’t let the darkness stop your riding. Come in and see us and we’ll get you kitted out so you can keep doing what you love.
