Cycling in the Dark – Lights, Reflectors, and Safety Tips

Cycling in Estonia has become increasingly popular not only during the summer but also in autumn and winter. Many cyclists use their bikes for daily commuting to work, school, or training. If the weather allows, cycling is possible almost year-round. However, Estonia’s climate presents one major challenge: darkness.

In autumn and winter, daylight is limited, and rain, snow, and fog reduce visibility, making it harder for drivers to see cyclists in time. Therefore, cycling in the dark becomes a critical safety concern.

Fortunately, solutions exist. Modern bike lights and reflectors are effective, convenient, and often stylish. In this post, we will cover:

• Why cycling in the dark in Estonia is particularly challenging
• Which front and rear bike lights from Velomarket are suitable for different types of cyclists
• How Bookman reflective stickers and other reflectors can improve visibility
• Practical tips for staying safe while riding in the dark

Why is cycling in the dark a particular challenge in Estonia?

Estonia has a northern climate – autumn starts with rapidly darkening evenings, November has only a few hours of daylight, and in December and January daylight can last as little as six hours. This means that most commuting to work and school occurs in dim light or complete darkness.

Due to short days, even at midday the sky is often cloudy, and the light is diffuse. Changing weather brings rain, fog, wet asphalt, and snow, further reducing visibility. While cities have street lighting, it is not everywhere – suburban areas and roads often lack lighting entirely.

Without proper front and rear bike lights and reflectors, a cyclist becomes almost invisible to drivers. If a driver only notices a cyclist from 20–30 meters away, it may already be too late to react.

Therefore, cyclists cannot rely on just the legally required minimum. Active lighting (lights) and passive visibility (reflectors and reflective stickers) are essential..

Bike Lights from Velomarket’s Selection

Velomarket offers one of the widest selections of bike accessories in Estonia, including front and rear bike lights. Below are some practical recommendations based on a cyclist’s needs.

For City Commuters

If you primarily ride on well-lit city streets and bike paths, a medium-power front light (600–800 lm) is sufficient. It is important that you are visible to others, but at the same time you should not blind oncoming traffic.

For Daily Commuting to Work or School

If your rides take you to the suburbs or unlit bike paths, choose a more powerful light (1000–1200 lm).

Giant Recon HL1100 + TL200 🡥

• 1100 lm front light + 200 lm rear light
• Compact, lightweight, and durable
• Suitable for daily use, even in poor weather conditions

For Sport Riders and Road Cycling

On roads or forest trails, especially strong lighting is needed – recommended at least 1500 lm.

Bookman Volume 1500 🡥

• 1500 lm powerful front light, multiple modes
• USB rechargeable with a durable battery
• Ideal for sporty training or completely dark roads

For Occasional Use or as a Spare Light

If you rarely ride in the dark or just need a backup, a simpler solution is enough.

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Reflectors and reflective stickers – visible from the sides

In addition to lights, bike reflectors play an important role. Estonian traffic law requires that a bicycle has:

• a white reflector at the front,
• a red reflector at the rear,
• yellow reflectors on the spokes and pedals.

But this is just the minimum. Many cyclists want to increase visibility, especially from the sides. This is where Bookman reflective stickers come in.

Why choose reflective stickers?

• Can be attached to the bike frame, helmet, bike bag, backpack, or even shoes.
• They are barely noticeable during the day but shine brightly in car headlights at night.
• Increase safety, especially at intersections and on side roads where side visibility is critical.

Practical tips for cycling in the dark

If you want to ride safely at night, follow these guidelines:

• Use a front light of at least 800–1500 lumens. Lower power is sufficient for well-lit city streets, higher power is recommended for dark roads.
• Keep the rear red light on at all times. Flashing mode makes you more noticeable, while steady light provides consistent visibility.
• Add reflective stickers to the sides. They help drivers see you at intersections and on side roads.
• Aim the light correctly. The beam should reach about 10 meters ahead without blinding others.
• Keep batteries charged or have spares. USB-rechargeable bike lights are convenient, but always check the battery level before each ride.
• Wear visible clothing. Reflective cycling gear or bright jackets increases safety.
• Secure your lights properly. Ensure the light doesn’t shake or point too close to the ground.
• Carry an extra or backup light. On longer rides, it’s good to have a spare in case the main light runs out of power.

Bicycle lights and reflectors according to the law

Estonian traffic law is clear on this matter:

• At night, a bicycle must have a white front light and a red rear light.
• Additionally, a bicycle must have reflectors: white at the front, red at the rear, and at least one yellow or white reflector on each wheel.

§ 87, clause 1, chapter 2: White front and red rear light, and at least one yellow or white reflector on each wheel.
§ 87, clause 3: On a bicycle, balance scooter, or small moped, a white front light and a red rear light must be on when riding in darkness or in poor visibility.

This means that cycling in the dark without proper lighting is not only dangerous but also illegal.

Velomarket offers a selection of lights and reflectors that comply with the law and provide extra safety and peace of mind.

Summary

Cycling in the dark in Estonia does not have to be risky. With the right equipment, you can ensure that the cyclist is visible in every situation – in the city, suburbs, and on rural roads.

• Front lights (Bookman Volume 1500, Giant Recon HL1100, AXA Solis 800) provide clear visibility ahead.
• Rear lights make the cyclist visible from behind.
• Bookman reflective stickers and other reflectors help make the cyclist visible from the sides.

All of this means that drivers can see the cyclist from a greater distance, giving them enough time to react.

Ride smart, choose the right lights and reflectors, and enjoy your cycling season all year round!