Night Riding

[morrisman]

As I've enrolled on the St Crispin's Day Night Ride I've started night riding. Fitted out the Dawes with Lezyne Femtos flashers front and rear and a Cree T6 front light. Kitted myself out at Aldi's with merino for warmth. long sleeve hi-viz outer plus long lycra. Tonight I rattled off a brisk 10 miles and really enjoyed it.

Things I noticed:

• Not being able to see the gear indicators made my gear selection easier as I didn't know what gear I was in numerically just what felt right.
• Hills were easier to climb because I could only see a short distance in front so less to depress me.
• Potholes were harder to avoid so riding further out was a good idea.
• Cars seemed to give me more room

 

[cyberknight]

I tend to give it less beans on descents on country lanes in total darkness as even with a magicshine which i can see clearly with i like a bit of wiggle room if it goes pear shaped.

 

[T.M.H.N.E.T]

I've been night riding for a few **months now and absolutely love it. I can't explain why! But I've noticed that this year having the right lighting and clothing certainly helps.

**I've always rode at night - club has a few night rides on weeknights I try to get out on

 

[deptfordmarmoset]

Yes, hills are so much easier because of what you can't see, aren't they? There's probably a big lesson about the psychology of climbing hills in there.

 

[Fab Foodie]

Night riding's a hoot!

I would also suggest a headtorch. The Petzl types can be very useful for seeing where you point your head (lighting where the T6 doesn't) and is hugely useful if you have a p*ncture or a mechanical.
http://www.petzl.com/us/outdoor/headlamp/universal/tikka-xp

The Tikka plus 2 is also suitable .... better than holding a torch in your teeth!

 

[guitarpete247]

I used to enjoy night riding when I was a student. I wish there had been the lights then that there are now. I remember riding home from work and cars coming towards me who would go to full beam. I could see nothing.
A couple of nights ago I had the opposite as a group of cyclists came towards me and I could see nothing so had to stop. I want some of those lights.

 

[Chris S]

I've got a Poundland front light. It's got a really low quality LED which looks blue. When it's on flashing mode some vehicles in front of me pull over to the side of the road. They probably think it's a police car!

 

[johnboyturbo]

If you want a headlamp get this I ha e it and great

http://www.nightsearcher.co.uk/Products/tabid/55/agentType/View/PropertyID/154/Default.aspx

 

[morrisman]

If you want a headlamp get this I ha e it and great

http://www.nightsearcher.co.uk/Products/tabid/55/agentType/View/PropertyID/154/Default.aspx

You could get 4 of these Cree Lights for the same money and they come with head bands.