1. More light than “mandatory” – ensure the correct brightness
The truth is: winter light is treacherous. Fog, rain, scattered light from cars – all of these factors absorb luminosity and make us invisible.
It is important to have:
- a front light with a defined, wide beam,
- a bright rear light that can be seen from a distance,
- and a light that really illuminates the path – not just “glows somehow.”
Good lighting means you can see and be seen.
2. Batteries lose power in winter – cold is their arch enemy
If you ride with battery-powered lights, you may be familiar with this: you set off with a fully charged battery, but by the second traffic light, it’s already only half full because the cold drains the battery much faster.
This means charging more often, carrying a spare battery, lots of fiddling around and cold fingers – or thinking about an alternative that works completely independently of temperature.
3. Lights that always work: Why hub dynamos are worth their weight in gold in winter
Dynamo systems are currently enjoying a minor comeback – and rightly so. A hub dynamo provides power no matter how cold, wet, or muddy it is outside. It simply always works – even on gravel roads, in sleet, or at sub-zero temperatures.
And best of all, it never needs charging. No battery, no charger, no “damn, I forgot!”
All-season cyclists in particular want lights that are simply there. No thinking, no chargers, no waiting.
4. Don’t forget side visibility – you want to be visible from all directions
Many people focus on their front light or rear light. But in winter, danger often comes from the side: parked cars, poor visibility due to rain or fog, gray clothing in a gray environment. This makes it all the more important to be visible not only from the front and rear, but also from the side. Reflective accents on your jacket or pants help, as do bright details on your bike.
And if you’re traveling with bikepacking bags, it’s worth taking a closer look at your rear light – because large saddle bags can easily cover it up. So: check once in the dark with your luggage – and then relax and get rolling.
5. Secure fit & clear lenses – small checks, big impact
Winter roads are bumpier, muddier, saltier. A lamp that slips out of place is less than helpful. Therefore:
- Tighten mounts regularly
- Wipe lenses (mud, salt, and splashing water reduce luminosity)
- Check your lights before you set off – it takes 10 seconds and provides 100% more safety
Why integrated lighting systems like those on the veloheld.iconX are particularly useful
After reading these five tips, it’s clear that it’s not just about any old light. It’s about lights that always work, don’t annoy you, and make you visible, no matter what winter has in store. That’s exactly why we rely on sophisticated, integrated lighting systems for the new veloheld.iconX, such as the lighting systems from SON with hub dynamo and Edelux headlights.
- Power always available: no batteries, no charging, no stress – even in cold weather.
- A light cone that can do it all: wide, bright, reliable. Even in the dark forest.
- Rear light in the seat clamp: high up, well protected, no wobbling.
- Internally routed cables: clean, safe, winter-proof.
- Low maintenance and suitable for everyday use: for those who prefer riding to tinkering.
Conclusion: Good lighting is not an accessory—it's a superpower.
Winter doesn’t mean rolling indoors and waiting for it to get light again.
Winter means: smart lights on. Clear your head. And off you roll.
👉 You can find out more about the new veloheld.iconX in our webshop – as a complete bike, frame set, or tourist version.
PS: If you have any questions, we’re here for you. Feel free to write to us anytime.
