I should clarify I am only concerned about commuting home through this area where the attack occurred after dark. I was already timid about the night riding before this happened, it is dark out on this stretch and we will be in deer rutting season soon, that is a fun time for all. But I am also convinced this probably would not happen on the same road again. Same area, maybe but the same road unlikely. I know most of my fear is unnecessary and getting out on the road will be the most empowering thing. I will commute home next week to prove it to myself.

I have looked at the SO database, we have some here (mostly acts against kids) so I know they are around my town (not my house since I live too close to a school ).

Pepper spray is about as violent as I will go but I am more interested in self defense, I found a local place for karate and one for Krav Maga but not sure what I want yet. I would much rather take a women's only so that is what I am looking for.

Oh and this light is on those new fangled cameras which do get bikes but I am not sure they will at night. Even so the light is set to only trip after a few minutes because the other road is busier so it waits longer for mine.