Night Time Rides

Apart from commutes who else ventures out at night? Last night I intentionally extended my 10 mile commute into a 32 mile cross country evening jaunt knowing that the darkness would close in during the trip.
It's so much fun and completely different riding along deserted country lanes by headlights (guided at one point by bats silhouetted against the skiy) the only watching the slowly sinking sun, turn into a blood red band on the horizon, the skies darkening and then finally the only light source is that which you provide yourself.
Even with the clocks moving forwards there's still plenty of scope to get some 'dark' miles in and still be home before 9:30-10:00pm...give it try!
It's so much fun and completely different riding along deserted country lanes by headlights (guided at one point by bats silhouetted against the skiy) the only watching the slowly sinking sun, turn into a blood red band on the horizon, the skies darkening and then finally the only light source is that which you provide yourself.
Even with the clocks moving forwards there's still plenty of scope to get some 'dark' miles in and still be home before 9:30-10:00pm...give it try!
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Just make sure you can see AND BE SEEN as the last thing drivers will be looking out for is some lunatics riding round in the dark. On my winter bike I've got loads of the 'black glows white' tape on my mudguards, forks, seat stays, seat post and handlebars. Very effective and only costs £10 for an A4 sheet off wiggle.
FCN: 2
Erm you'd be suprised. In our little group typically 3 or 4 of us none of us have what you would call brilliant lights (Cateye single shot or similar) but when theres a few of them on the go there good enough. If you were out by yourself you would want something better though.
Although I must admit, it does seem safer riding at night then during the day, due to the fact that there's less traffic at night.
We used to do 40 mile rides across Dartmoor but have got older and wiser.
Personally I use a decent Lumicycle lamp but some are on more basic fair but good lights are a must. We also do off-road mtb night-rides. I would rather go on a group night-ride than sit on a turbo-trainer, given the choice.
See website for details.
I once set out on a ride around Rutland Water at midnight and and to my total shock nearly had a collision with a jogger who was running around with no headlamp torch or anything.
Well I think it was a jogger!!! :shock:
Amazing how many Ford Fiestas with steamed up windows you see rocking gently whilst parked down country lanes when you are out training! :oops: