Bike Hack: DIY Bike Light

When it’s dark outside, riding without a white front light can get you a ticket, but more importantly, it’s super dangerous. Sometimes cars aren’t looking for bicycles on the road, so when you are riding without a light at night, it makes it even harder for them to notice you.

Bike-specific lights aren’t necessary to accomplish this (although they are nice and can be found in the Bike Kitchen) you can use an existing smaller flashlight you might have lying around.

  • Find a smaller flashlight that works and isn’t too large to put on your handlebars (don’t prevent yourself from braking or turning)
  • Using an old intertube, cut two small circles in it, about 3 inches apart
  • Stretch the intertube under your handlebars and place the flashlight in the holes
  • Make sure the flashlight is held on tight and will face forward while riding
Being visible while riding at night is extremely important to avoid collisions with cars, other bicyclists, pedestrians and inanimate objects.
  1. John Bailey says:

    I always carry zip ties w/me. They came in handy the other night when my light went out, and I just happen to have a mini mag on me.