Have you ever experienced the thrill of shredding through the dark? Some enduro competitions include night edition stages, like our beloved Transvaraita Race.
Wondering how to prepare for this and which light to buy on a limited budget? Let’s delve into it.
MTB Night Light Options
Well-known brands like Garmin offer night lights, some even with automatic activation. Olight is another reputable option.
However, if you’re not planning to use it frequently or don’t want to splurge, consider a standard night light. You can find affordable options with high light intensity (high lumens). These might be heavier and have a battery connected to a wire, which you’ll need to carry with you. Despite these drawbacks, rest assured, we’ve raced with them and are completely satisfied.
Setting Up Your MTB Night Lights
You might assume one light is sufficient, but for enhanced comfort and visibility, it’s better to have one light on your helmet (to illuminate where you’re looking) and another on your handlebar (to see where your bike is headed).
Most night lights come with an easy-to-install system for the handlebar, but attaching them to your helmet might puzzle you.
DIY MTB Night Light Holder
Tribe Daddy ingeniously 3D printed a holder for fixing the night light to the helmet using a GoPro support. We’ve used this for night rides in MTB and skiing excursions, finding it comfortable and durable in every scenario. The wire extends from the holder to the battery, which you can conveniently stow in your backpack or pocket.
Now, it’s time to revel in the nocturnal atmosphere!
One of the most surprising aspects of night rides is the profound stillness around you. It’s so quiet that paradoxically, every odd animal sound seems amplified, making night rides a tad spooky.
My night stage experience in the Transvaraita was magical. The trail powder, illuminated by the night light, seemed to shimmer, and the cool night breeze gently kissed my face. All of this, amidst the adrenaline rush of a race, was simply enchanting.
So, give a night ride a try, and don’t hesitate to ask Tribe Daddy for your customized MTB light holder!
