lahyts
Noun
A device used by cyclists to make their presence known at night or in low-light situations.
Example usage: 'Make sure to always turn on your lights before you ride in the dark.'
Most used in: Countries with low-light conditions or with regulations requiring cyclists to use lights.
Most used by: Commuters, road cyclists, and mountain bikers.
Popularity: 8
Comedy Value: 3
Also see: Headlight, Tail Light, Dynamo, Lumen,
What Are Lights in Cycling?
Lights are an essential piece of safety equipment for cyclists. Lights are used when cycling in the dark or in low light conditions, such as during dawn or dusk. Lights help cyclists to be seen by other road users, such as cars and pedestrians. Without lights, cyclists can be difficult to spot, particularly when it is dark, increasing the risk of an accident.
The most common type of light used by cyclists are LED lights, which are powered by batteries. The lights usually attach to the handlebars or seat post of the bike. Front lights are usually white and the rear lights are usually red. It is important to make sure that the lights are bright enough to be seen in the dark. Some lights have different settings, such as flashing or steady beam.
Lights are essential for cyclists to stay safe while riding in the dark. According to a survey by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than half of all fatal bicycle accidents occur at night. Therefore, having lights on your bike is essential for staying safe and visible while cycling in the dark.
The Origin of Lights in Cycling: A Bright History
The term “lights” in the context of cycling has been used since the late 19th century. Its origin can be traced back to the United Kingdom and the invention of the dynamo-powered bicycle lamp. This revolutionary invention was created in 1887 by Henry Edmunds, a British inventor who was looking for ways to improve cycling safety.
The first dynamo-powered bicycle lamps used a small dynamo that was connected to the bicycle wheel with a belt. This allowed the cyclist to generate their own light source while riding. The device was quickly adopted by cyclists in the UK and soon spread to other countries in Europe. By the early 20th century, dynamo-powered bicycle lamps were commonplace, and the term “lights” was used to describe them.
Today, lights are an essential part of cycling for safety and visibility. Modern lights are far more sophisticated than their 19th century counterparts, with LED technology providing much brighter and longer-lasting light sources. However, the term “lights” still remains in common usage, a reminder of the bright history of bicycle lighting.
