The science of being seen

[SolarBikeCar]

What consensus is there for limits on visibility markings? I run lights during the day and some cyclists cover their eyes in some sort of “your blinding me” pantomime. When I stopped using lights in response the safety patrol motioned to turn them back on. My 2 lights are mounted about 12 inches above the ground and are each 4 1-watt leds for a total of about 700lm. These aren’t bright enough to hurt anyone’s eyes even if they were to look directly into them at point blank range at night. Perhaps some people prefer a softer yellow light and these are a harsher high temperature white. Are there other reasons why some might engage in so much drama over lighting? Absent a reasonable concern for retina damage or even reduction in night vision, I’ve assumed it is simply a round-about way to protest electric-assist vehicles.

[n18]

@SolarBikeCar 182441 wrote:

What consensus is there for limits on visibility markings? I run lights during the day and some cyclists cover their eyes in some sort of “your blinding me” pantomime. When I stopped using lights in response the safety patrol motioned to turn them back on. My 2 lights are mounted about 12 inches above the ground and are each 4 1-watt leds for a total of about 700lm. These aren’t bright enough to hurt anyone’s eyes even if they were to look directly into them at point blank range at night. Perhaps some people prefer a softer yellow light and these are a harsher high temperature white. Are there other reasons why some might engage in so much drama over lighting? Absent a reasonable concern for retina damage or even reduction in night vision, I’ve assumed it is simply a round-about way to protest electric-assist vehicles.

Last fall is the first time I ran into you at night(I don’t go to Reston area often, and I have seen you three times during daytime). Seeing two headlights coming at me, I assumed that a car entered the W&OD by mistake, it took me few seconds to realize it was you. You were going faster than the average cyclist at the time, so I assumed a car. A new cyclist would probably freak out. So expect more issues in the days ahead since it will be dark by 5 PM. If you get a single light, it would be easier, but others would assume a narrow bicycle/vehicle. Using an LED strip might solve this problem.

Your biggest issue however is liability. If you hit someone, the one who’s breaking the rules gets more liability. My/Your/Others interpretation of the laws don’t matter. The one who matters is the judge presiding on the case. That’s when most people know that interpreting laws based on the way they were enforced is irrelevant in court.

If you have visited this forum before buying a multi-modal vehicle, my advice would have been to buy a cargo E-bike, or an E-bike with a trailer carrying extra batteries that you would disengage mid-point and store somewhere, like in a bike room. Local authorities should build extra bike storage rooms in strategic locations to support those who have long commute. I know there is one at Wiehle Metro Station in Reston, and there is another one at Stringfellow RD in Fairfax county. They require fees to use. We need more.

[cathy liang]

As a cyclist, I just wanted to jump in and share my experience with the Gaciron KIWI-1200 front bike light, especially since we’re talking about visibility. I’ve been using it for my evening commutes, and I honestly can’t recommend it enough when it comes to being seen and staying safe on the road.

The 1200 lumens output is incredibly bright, making sure I’m visible from a long distance. Even on poorly lit roads or through dark tunnels, it provides excellent coverage, which is crucial for both seeing and being seen. The light has multiple modes, including a flashing mode that’s especially effective in attracting attention from drivers, even in high-traffic areas.

What I love most about the Gaciron light is its versatility. You can easily adjust the brightness depending on the time of day and how dark the surroundings are, and the battery life is fantastic. I typically ride for about 45 minutes each way, and the light lasts me the entire week on a single charge, which is a big plus for someone like me who commutes every day.

It’s also incredibly sturdy and weatherproof. I’ve ridden in the rain a few times, and it still works perfectly. For anyone who rides after dark or in low-light conditions, this light offers excellent visibility without being overly expensive.

I’ve found it to be a great addition to my bike, helping me stay visible to motorists and confident on the road, especially during those early morning or late evening rides when visibility is at its worst. Definitely worth considering if you’re looking to improve your safety and visibility during night rides!

https://www.gaciron-shop.com/products/kiwi-1200-anti-glare-bike-front-light?cfb=8ef18133-3e3b-41ee-b683-c82224435c57&ifb=8ef18133-3e3b-41ee-b683-c82224435c57&scm=search.v39.101.770.103.104&score=1&ssp=&spm=..search.search_1.1

[Author]

Posts