If you think all bicycle lights are much of a muchness, you may need to think again.

A test of more than 50 front and rear bicycle lights has found a substantial difference in their effectiveness, especially at various angles.

Simon Kennett, Greater Wellington’s Active Transport & Road Safety Coordinator, tested the lights using a Lux meter – a device for measuring brightness. “This is a good objective way to measure the effectiveness of a light. If you’re trying to suss out lights yourself you can hold them at arm’s length and they might be okay but if you were to get someone to hold them from the other side of the room they might look completely different.”

The test was done as part of the Be Safe Be Seen campaign timed for Autumn when the days are getting shorter and darker. Results of the test and a range of cycle safety information are all on the campaign page.

"The best lights are those that are about the same strength as car lights and those that are brightest at a range of angles. Most accidents occur during turning manoeuvres so being seen by vehicles turning across your path is vital.

“Cars approach cyclists and vice versa at many angles so you need a light that can be seen easily from various angles.

Simon says he was surprised at just how badly some lights performed at an angle. “Some of them went from near-blinding at no angle to almost no light at an angle. The brightness of the light at a 20 degree angle, for example, is really important.”

And he says a good front light is equally important as a good rear light. “Many cyclists don’t put as much value on a front light because they think they’ll be able to see cars approaching even if the cars don’t see them. But you need to be seen just as well from the front as from the back.”

Another safety tip is to make sure you have back up front and rear lights. “It’s always good to have a back up in case the battery dies unexpectedly.”

“As well as having good lights on your bike, reflectors and reflective tape are essential for people cycling when it’s dark.   An excellent visibility tip is to attach reflective slap bands to your legs which are moving all the time when you’re on a bike.” Reflective tape and slap bands are available free for all Wellington region residents. You can pick some up from Greater Wellington’s reception area at 142 Wakefield Street.

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