Why turn on the lights at lunchtime?

Hello, this is Ikeda.

Once upon a time, I had the opportunity to chat with a customer who used to be a "hashiriya" (street racer) and would tear up mountain passes.

During our conversation, they told me about something called "cat's eyes" on mountain roads, which they described as "pesky things at the curves!"

These are them:

Apparently, these "cat's eyes" interfere when drifting a car, and hitting them can damage the wheels. So, they seem to be effective in preventing drifting.

I can certainly understand the desire to drift.

As a cycling enthusiast, when I hear "cat's eye," the Japanese light brand immediately comes to mind. But I thought, "Surely not..." and went to check for myself, and the photo above is what I found.

Unfortunately, the "cat's eyes" in this location were from a different brand, but our CatEye company does offer this item as a "safety product," so there might still be some connection.

If anyone knows more about this, please let me know!

By the way, do you use your bicycle lights during the day?

Many people think lights are only for nighttime, but in fact, using them during the day can make your ride safer.

Motorcycles keep their front and rear lights on day and night, and cars' brake lights illuminate when the brakes are applied.

Bicycles, in principle, ride on the road. To ride more safely and enjoyably, it seems best to use lights even during the day!

In recent years, bicycle lights have become brighter, and "daylights" that alert others to the rider's presence and enhance safety have become common.

They are recommended not only for long rides that last all day but also for daily bicycle commuters.

Let's take a look at some of these unique "daylights."

When it comes to Japanese bicycle light brands, you know "CatEye".

The Viz300 can flash for up to 45 hours and emits a maximum brightness of 300 lumens.

300 lumens is bright enough to be used as a front light at night.

It's also compatible with aero-shaped seatposts, so it's good for road bikes!

With its intense brightness, it's perfect for those who ride in heavy traffic or who are concerned about what's behind them.

CATEYE VIZ300

Price: 4,620 yen

Also from CatEye is the compact Nano60 daylight.

CATEYE NANO60 

Price: 3,520 yen

It can flash for up to 60 hours with a maximum brightness of 60 lumens, making it clearly visible from a distance.

This one can also be mounted on aero-shaped seatposts.

With optional parts, it can also be attached to saddle rails or seat stays.

For brevet riders who ride all night, using two Nano60s is better. If one runs out of battery, you can use the other while charging the first.

Both of these CatEye lights have a mode called "Daytime Hyper Flash", and the way they flash is so rhythmic that it's impossible not to notice them.

Please take a look at the video.

Next up is the LEZYNE STRIP PRO Ai ALERT 400+ REAR, a popular light brand at Grumpy.

It flashes for up to 80 hours and has a maximum brightness of 400 lumens.

Being able to mount it on an aero-shaped seatpost is already standard, but what's interesting is that it's equipped with something called "Ai Alert."

Ai Alert uses over 1,000 hours of ride data for AI learning to accurately detect "deceleration during braking" and notify those behind you with a flash...

In short, it's an excellent product that, just like a car, makes the light flash brightly when you brake.

Bicycle lights seem to be getting into AI-related items too. The evolution is amazing.

For more on Ai Alert, please refer to this video.

So, both CatEye and Lezyne are recommended as daylights for daytime use, but the question is, which one is better in the end?

Here's my personal opinion:

If you prioritize customization, go for "CatEye."

With optional accessories, you can mount it under the saddle, on saddlebags, or in various places on the frame, allowing you to position it exactly how you like.

If you prioritize solid, robust performance, go for "Lezyne."

Lights in the same price range often offer better cost performance, being brighter and lasting longer. Their refined design and cool appearance are also distinctive features.

Please choose the one that suits you best!

Let's enjoy cycling safely by using lights even during the day.