Mountain biking at night is a great way to stay sane – and fit – during the gloomy winter months and to enjoy trails that are usually crowded during the daylight hours.
But the prospect of hurling yourself down a mountain after dark might also seem a little daunting. So what do you need to know before you head out for your first nocturnal trail ride?
Related: Buyer’s guide to mountain bike lights
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The good news is that there's never been a better time to get into night riding. LED technology is progressing at such a rapid pace that light systems are very affordable and have blindingly bright outputs. Lighting systems with 600 lumens or more will provide enough illumination for general trail riding. Setups with lumen outputs of 2,000 or more are common and are brighter than some automotive high beams.
Cordless systems are quickly becoming the norm, simplifying installation on the handlebar or helmet.
Related: Best mountain bike lights of 2015
Handlebar or helmet mount?
Proper light setup
Other considerations
- Pre-ride check: Make sure your lights are fully charged before each ride. Have a predetermined route in mind. Know the mileage and how long it will take you to complete it. Make sure you know how long your light will run on high, medium and low and give yourself at least a 15 minute buffer in case you have a mechanical.
- Eyewear: Eye protection is even more important at night. Clear lenses are your best bet. Safety glasses will do the trick if you don’t have interchangeable lenses, or don’t want to spend a lot of money on dedicated eyewear for night riding.
- Dress for darkness: It shouldn’t be news to anyone that temperatures drop at night. Dress accordingly and pack an extra layer in case you need to bundle up. Reflective clothing is also a good idea, particularly if your rides include a bit of paved road.
- Plan B (as in backup). It’s always a good idea to have a backup light. It doesn’t have to be exceptionally powerful, but it should be bright enough to light your way back to civilization. If you ride to and from the trails, be sure you have a tail light as well.
- Slow your roll: Riding at night can play tricks on your eyes and alter your depth perception. Keep your speed in check and stick to trails you already know.
You can read more at BikeRadar.com
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