How to Avoid Night Riding Hidden Dangers

We’re talking cycling — night cycling(night riding). Something funny happens to bikers when the sun goes down: Riders who will gleefully pedal all over town between dawn and dusk hesitate to saddle up for a moonlight roll.

I’ve done a bit of after-hours cycling myself, but it’s typically been on off-street bike paths or quiet suburban roads — never in the urban core. So there may be some hidden dangers on the way.

1. Dark

Here’s the thing about riding at night: There’s not much traffic. Here’s the other thing about riding at night: It’s dark. And that makes it harder for the drivers who are still on the road instead of at home like decent people to see us fragile cyclists as we attempt the share the road. You definitely need lights. And not just any lights. Read “Some Guides about Lights for Night Riding” & “How much light is enough for night riding?”to get a right one.

2. Crime

Nighttime is when the bad guys come out, so naturally I wanted to ensure a safe route. So don’t ride where you wouldn’t walk. And a U-lock makes an excellent self-defense bludgeon.

3. Unseen potholes

The little dips and bumps of urban asphalt can be tough to see, even under a streetlight. And bike lights bright enough to really light up the road ahead can get incredibly expensive. Best defense: When the sun goes down, stick to routes you know well — or at least scout the route in the daylight before riding it at night.