Cars & Transport guide

Cycle safely in the dark and wet

Get your bike, lights and route ready for autumn and winter riding so you stay visible, stop reliably and feel confident on dark and wet roads.

Estimated time: 30–60 minutesUpdated: 28 September 2026

Use this guide when the clocks go back and you start riding before sunrise or after sunset. You need working front and rear lights, a pump, a torch and a little time to check the bike over.

Step by step

  1. Fit the lights and reflectors you need

    The law requires a white front light and a red rear light when cycling between sunset and sunrise, plus a red rear reflector and amber pedal reflectors on most bikes. Check the lights are bright, aimed correctly and not blocked by bags. Carry spare batteries or charge rechargeable lights before every ride.

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