Lighting recommendations needed

[indysteel]

Well you guys have given me lots to think about. Carrie Anne, thanks for the specifics on the tunnels and for the reminder about heavy holiday traffic. Since we'll be riding from the southern end of the Parkway, we'll encounter a number of tunnels, but it's good to know that they're not long. As for the traffic, I think we'll just have to deal with it. Thankfully, not all of our riding will be on the Parkway.

All this has made me rethink my feelings about night riding. It's not something that I've given much thought to, but I now will. After doing some reading on various sites, I'm getting a better feel for what's available and at what price. There are a few L&M systems that I like; it just depends on whether I want to make a more significant investment or just stick to what will do the job on my trip. They each seem to have their pros and cons. I'm going to talk to some of my friends to see if they have any interest in riding at night with me. There's a route out in the boonies that I take all the time that I think would be relatively safe and peaceful, but it's not something I'd do alone. The thought of cruising along under the stars has a lot of appeal.

A few more specific questions though: Can someone explain the pros and cons of halogen lights. I like L&M's Solo Logic model in that it has an adjustable focus, can be helmet mounted and won't interfere with my Sigma Wireless computer, but I'm not sure about how Halogen light stacks up against HID and LED. My understanding is that the bright white light of HID/LED is better, at least if riding at night in suburban and urban areas. What if, however, you'd mostly be riding at night in the country? Is it still better to spring for HID? Also, I've heard some reviews on HID lights that they're so bright that drivers often flash their brights at you. Is this a good or bad thing? I want to be seen but I don't want to blind anyone.

Wow, and I thought researching my custom wheels was exhausting!

Everyone have a great weekend. Thanks for the advice...



Kate