LED Lights: Are They For You?

LED Lights an overview

As many cyclists know, the laws regarding the use of LED lights on bikes changed in 2005. LED’s were once considered unsuitable for use on cycles with the exception of rear reflectors. This was partly to do with the fact that until relatively recently LED’s were not able to emit white light and only coloured lights were available. This has of course changed due to the constant efforts of developers who have now been able to produce extremely bright white lights. Indeed some of them are just too bright and there are some regulations concerning the light emission from LED lights on cycles. There are however many fabulous LED’s on the market today which fulfil everything that a keen cyclist needs in a bike light. Great visibility and great lighting ability which enables a rider to see what is actually in front of them when they are cycling on a dark, bumpy country lane!  Flashing LED tail lights are popular with cyclists who ride regularly as they are a definite advantage in terms of visibility whilst other users extol their virtues in terms of battery efficiency; certainly it is a great advantage to use a light which only requires charging on a semi regular basis! Choosing which kind of lighting system is best for you will depend on how often you ride your bike and under what conditions.

LED lights and the commuter

So you have decided to go green/save cash/get fit and cycle to work. The advantages of this speak for themselves, people who ride bicycles on a regular basis are generally much fitter than those who rely on four wheeled transport to get them to and from the office. It stands to reason that if you are committing to the cycle as your regular form of transport then you should invest in good safety equipment! Your safety is not to be taken lightly when sharing a road with powerful cars and so the more care you invest in your choice of lighting for your bike, the better. Flashing or pulsing LED lights for the rear of your cycle are a great way to ensure that you can be easily seen during darkness or even during poor weather conditions. A flashing light is far more visible to traffic than a steady light and since there are now many great models on offer and at competitive prices it makes sense to invest in one. Most of these LED lights clip on and off your bike with ease and most come with rechargeable batteries. It might be a good idea to invest in as spare as well as a protective pouch in which to store it. Remember to keep this spare with you at all times and in the event of breakage or battery failure, you will be protected and ready to go.

LED Lights summed up

• Suitable for both the front and rear of your cycle
• Lower cost than ever before
• Flashing tail lights ensure more visibility
• Easy to install
• Energy efficient

With benefits like these why wouldn’t you choose to invest in LED lights for your cycle? It’s simple; you get the reliability of a bright light which uses little energy and the comfort of knowing you are visible to other traffic.

LED Lights

LED lights and your bike

Depending on your cycling habits you may find that one of the best lighting options for you are LED lights. It is only in relatively recent years that these lights have been deemed suitable for front lights as well as for back lights. This is due to technological advances which have ensured that the lights are now very powerful whereas in the past they actually offered only a very dim light for cyclists who were riding after dark or in poor light.  If you are the kind of cyclist who only needs to cycle in urban or suburban settings where street lighting is quite good, then you will not necessarily need a powerful front light and so an average LED would suffice for your safety requirements. If however you are fond off-road cycling or if you enjoy longer trips where you may get caught in bad weather then you will doubtless need a bright light and in today’s market you won’t find it hard to grab yourself a top quality light at an affordable price.

LED lights and safety

It is certainly true that cyclists are spoilt for choice today; there are so many choices with regards to lighting for your cycle that it can be difficult to see the wood for the trees! When choosing which LED lights would be best for you it is important that you think about your habits with regard to your personal cycling habits. Do you use your bike for commuting to work only? How far is the journey? Is your cycle for weekend leisure purposes alone and if this is the case are you planning to go away camping or hiking? All of these points have ramifications with regard to which LED lights will be the best choice for you. If you are only planning to ride in “safe” areas then your LED’s need not be too bright but equally they should not be so bright that they dazzle oncoming traffic.  Some points to bear in mind are as follows. Keep your lights in good working order by checking them regularly and ensuring they are clean and free of mud or dirt which could hinder their performance. If you are planning on riding for long distances or on a regular basis then it is prudent to keep a spare light in your bag, an unexpected breakage can be dangerous if it means you are stranded after dark with your bicycle and no means of light.

Important points about LED lights

·         Low Power LED lights are a perfectly valid choice if you plan to ride in well lit areas

·         High Power LED’s are now available with a dimming option and so are suited to high traffic areas

·         Keep your lights well maintained and clean

·         Carry a spare if you are planning on a longer journey.

There are many advantages to LED lights and as a consumer you will find that your needs are well catered for whether you are a serious cyclist or you simply ride for fun and exercise. Care when choosing will save you a lot of time and seeking the expert advice of professionals will ensure you get the best product for your needs.

LED Lights and Development

LED lights then and now

It is relatively recently that people were reliant on heavy lights and expensive batteries for their cycle lights. Go a little further back in time and the worlds first cyclists were riding around country lanes with candle lit lanterns on the front of their bikes! Consider then how things have changed for us today. The ease, performance and simplicity of today’s LED lights is simply astounding given the fact that most of the developments have taken place over such a short space of time. Whether you are a hobby cyclist or a serious rider who relies on their bike to get to and from their place of work then you should consider LED lights for your needs. In the early days of the LED (light emitting diode) things were not so simple as they are today, the light from the earliest LED’s were not white but coloured and it took much development to get to where we are now.

LED lights and their inventor

It was Nick Holonyak who invented LED lights in 1962 and the brilliant scientist has received the most prestigious scientific awards for his work in the field. Not a rookie by any means Mr Holonyak had already been credited with the invention of the dimmer switch by the time he hit upon the idea of using semiconductors to create light. His work has revolutionized the lighting industry and at least 31 patents have come as a direct result of his work. Today LED’s can be found in so many practical applications that it is difficult to imagine a world without this handy and reliable source of light. Not only are they great for bicycles and other vehicles but they can be found in alarm clocks, Christmas decorations, televisions and lamps; in short they are everywhere. If you decide that they are the best choice for you then it may be worth knowing more about how they work and what makes them so reliable.

LED lights in a nutshell

A light emitting diode is basically a semiconductor light source. When we introduce a source of power to the diode then holes within the apparatus are filled with electrons which in turn release photon energy. Light emitting diodes are very tiny, less than 1mm and when they are arranged in certain groupings they create the lit-up panels seen on computer screens, clocks and other forms of LED lights.  Because they are so small and light, it is possible to use LED’s in many applications and it is this which makes them perfect for use within cycle lighting.

LED Lights for bikes

For use with cycles, LED lights are a great choice. Sturdy and light, they use very little energy and this proves a real advantage when it comes to replacing batteries. Many cyclists prefer them over other lighting types due to their brightness, seeing and being seen on the road is vital if you are a keen cyclist; no matter whether you ride on busy urban streets or quiet country lanes. In bad weather a steadily flashing LED tail light can be a life safer...quite literally.

LED Lights and Complimentary Equipment

Safety, cycling and LED lights

It stands to reason that as a keen cyclist you will want to maximise your safety on the road. Committing yourself to sharing a road with fast moving traffic is no small decision and should not be taken lightly. Poor weather conditions or riding after dark can be a real danger if your cycle is not well equipped with lights and getting caught in a bad rainstorm can be a hairy experience if you are an inexperienced cyclist, so be sure and investigate the many options available on the market which are designed to enhance your road safety. Your safety equipment is of paramount importance and choosing which lights to use on your cycle is a job which requires careful consideration. LED lights are a very popular choice with many cycle enthusiasts for the simple reason that they are extremely reliable and extremely energy efficient.

Maintain your LED lights

Gone are the days of constantly shelling out for replacement batteries, with so many fabulous LED lights out there to choose from which come with rechargeable batteries, most cyclists are happy to take advantage of the latest in Led lighting. Keep your cycle lights clean and in working order by performing regular checks on them. Make sure that the surface is free from mud, dust and other debris and always keep a spare set to hand when you are going on any journey. To maximise your LED lights and their performance in maintaining your personal safety you may consider taking advantage of some of the other cycling visibility aids on the market.

LED lights and more safety equipment

It is now possible to take advantage of the latest LED technology in very convenient ways; LED armbands and leg bands are a popular form of safety equipment which are not only simple to carry, wear and to put on but also have the capacity to flash which means they afford the rider even more visibility and therefore more safety. A moving or flashing light is far more visible and eye catching than a stationary light. Flashing arm and leg simply snap on over your clothing or fasten securely using Velcro and  are available in both adult or child sizes; these offer added reassurance during poor weather conditions when drivers, pedestrians and other cyclists may be under extra pressure to see others. Flashing LED technology has been adapted in many ways to aid visibility and some applications which are perfect for the average cyclist include:

• LED belts
• LED hanging lights which may be attached in various places
• LED spoke lights
• LED head torches

So from the most basic of LED lights first produced so many years ago and at such expense we have now come to a place where this amazing technology can be applied in all sorts of ways to aid the cyclist. Freeing us from the burden of gas and unwieldy batteries LED lights have revolutionised road safety and helped reduce road traffic accidents. Cheap, efficient and reliable they really are changing the way we see things.

LED lights Up Close

LED lights in focus

LED lights have revolutionised the world of cycle lights. With powerful light emission and long lasting battery power they basically offer most of what every cyclist needs in a bike light. They’re light and durable, reliable and come in a variety of strengths, some can also be dimmed according to the riders needs which is an important feature with regards to safety, as too bright a light can dazzle other road users and this can be just as dangerous as not having any light at all. Cyclists today are used to the convenience of LED lights, but it is not so long ago that there was very little choice when it came to lighting your way as you rode to work or school. Today every cyclist can benefit from a plethora of lighting choices and LED’s are among the best on offer. Do some research and think about your riding habits before you select the best lights for your cycle, a little time spent this way can really make the difference when it comes to choosing the right light for your needs.

LED lights and UK regulations

It was in 2005 that certain laws were changed to make it easier for cyclists to take advantage of the power and simplicity of LED lights as a means of lighting both the front and rear of a cycle. It is now permissible to have a flashing light both on the front and the tail end of your cycle as long as the light flashes between 1 and 4 times per second and the brightness of the flashing light is 4 candelas at the very least. Any steady lights which are installed on a cycle must be BS (British Standard) approved although some European models will also be legal as their policies are similar. It is important to remember that flashing red lights are synonymous with a moving bicycle in this and many other countries and a red tail light is a legal requirement. Front lights are usually white and steady; a bright LED front light is a good way to ensure that the road ahead is well lit and the rider can then safely see any potential dangers or obstructions which may be looming. 

                     

LED lights and important points to remember

• LED lights are powerful and energy efficient
• They must conform to BS regulations
• Tail lights must be red in colour
• Some European lights are permissible by British standards

In short it should be remembered that LED lights are a great boon to cyclists today but it is important to ensure your lighting is where it needs to be when you are cycling on open roads. Consider ways in which you may be able to maximise your visibility and have a look at reflective clothing as a compliment to your lights. Accidents involving cyclists are very often reported in wet conditions which can also point to poor lighting and it is for this reason that the more reflective clothing you wear the safer you will be. Be aware of your lights, keep them well maintained and ensure they conform to safety standards. Keep a spare set to hand if you are cycling regularly; this will help to ensure you are never caught without the correct lighting if your regular lights should become damaged.

Magicshine UK Leading the Way

Magicshine: Attention to detail

Magicshine UK is the company who originally brought the fantastic Magicshine lights and related products to the UK. With excellent links to the factory responsible for producing the popular lights and accessories, the family based company is still the most popular retailer for the products today and the many happy customers who choose to shop with them are leaving proof of their great service all over internet forums. This company were the very first retailer to offer 12 month warranties with purchases and it is this attention to detail which keeps the public coming back for more.

Magicshine: A friendly family concern

The friendly people at Magicshine UK are proud of their insider knowledge of cycling and their passion for the sport shows in their expertise. Who better to consult when buying new lights for your bike than a company who care about quality and performance every bit as much as you do?  Products are often road tested before being included in the shops stock and that is exactly the kind of detailed service which makes this a company with a difference. This is a family business with a great sense of what the public want and need, they are ever striving to make the experience of buying products a better one, though at the moment it’s hard to improve on things as they’re pretty top notch already!

Magicshine: The customer matters

The company is open for business on weekends too which is a bonus for those of us who can’t spend time shopping during the busy working week. You can even call them on the weekend which let’s fact it is when most of us are free to pursue our passions and our hobbies! If you need your purchases quickly then the staff is always happy to offer you a next day delivery service providing your order is placed before 3.00pm.

There is a large range of cycling products on offer from front and rear lights and head torches to reflectors and batteries and that’s not even to mention the diving lights which are also available!  Buying here is a pleasure and a glance around any cycling forum will bring you top reviews and opinions on this great company.

Magicshine in a nutshell

• A family run company who really care about the products
• Always at the forefront as the original stockists
• Regular rave reviews
• Ordering made simple
• Comprehensive range of products
• Customer service is second to none

A word to the wise, if you are a newcomer to the world of cycling or if you are an old hand who has not tried Magicshine yet, this is one company you should test for yourself. You won’t get a better deal or a better shopping experience and when you are spending your cash on a piece of important equipment you need to know that you are using a company who cares about what they are offering...that’s what you get at Magicshine; the personal touch. Don’t waste any more time give them a try!

What is Magicshine?

What is Magicshine?

Magicshine bicycle, diving and sports lights are considered to be among the very best in quality and performance. With a wonderful range of powerful lights and torches this is one of the most respected brands for cyclists the world over. The range has something to suit everyone from cyclists to runners and divers. Headlamps, torches, front and rear lights are only some of what is on offer and all of it is extremely high performance. Testimonials and word of mouth has sent many enthusiasts rushing to replace their regular products with the latest items which do more than offer great prices but also offer the peace of mind that only top notch products can. Magicshine UK is a wonderful website and the original stockists of these lights and accessories, so they should be your first stop in the search for the perfect bike lights or accessories.

What do Magicshine offer?

Apart from bicycle lights, the company also offer diving lights and anyone who is interested in running can find fantastic head torches on offer as well as Sports Kits with a range of great products in one bundle. The Magicshine bundle offers a head mounted lamp, an extension cable and a runner’s headband. This is a fab set for anyone who enjoys running of any type. Not only for jogging or orienteering but also for hill walking, these sets make a great buy for anyone who makes running and walking a part of their life. Front bike lights at Magicshine are of top quality and come in a variety of Lumens; many also come with your choice of battery and a 12 month warranty to boot! If you are not certain which set or light is the right one for you, then customer services will be happy to advise. The staff at Magicshine is always passionate about what they do and their interest in the products on offer is genuine.

Rear bike lights at Magicshine

In addition to a massive range of front lights and accessories, some great rear lights can be found at the company. There has been a big interest in a particular rear bike light which the company currently offer; the MJ818 is a dazzlingly powerful light with 85 lumens and clever reflectors it offers cyclists amazing visibility and can be fitted to any bike with ease thanks to its simple O ring attachment. This light is proving immensely popular and can also be provided with a waterproof battery to enable cyclists to ride without any concerns no matter what the weather conditions! No need to worry about battery damage or failure on off road trips, even long haul journeys are worry and stress free with these popular lights.

Why choose Magicshine?

• Leading the way in the world of sports lighting
• Top quality products are regularly receiving rave reviews on forums and publications
• Customer service that is second to none
• Innovative products made with the users needs first
• The best in battery’s and support products