Bike Lane Light

From This Is Why I'm Broke :

Screenshot from This Is Why I'm Broke

This looks like a good idea, but I'm not sure.  Why is this better than a flashing red light on the bike?  [And a commenter said the cyclist logo doesn't come with it.] 

I predict that as we grow to understand our weird relationship to technology, we will be seeing more human powered tools for situations where they are appropriate.  When we first started applying engines and electricity, people labored pretty hard and getting, say, a washing machine instead of hand washing was a huge labor and time saver.  The same with tractors over plows and horses (or water buffalo).

But then we applied motors to everything without thinking where it was necessary and where not.  To the point where we drive our cars and take elevators to the gym where we use plugged in machines to exercise.

Now that we've discovered that we've gotten lazy and fat, people are considering how human powered activity - like walking or biking to work, taking the stairs, mowing the lawn, shoveling the snow, etc. - not only reduce our use of fossil fuels, but also provide natural exercise to keep us fit.  And connect us to the natural rhythms of nature. 

That said, one electric gadget that has become essential for safe night biking is the LED light that means that cyclists can be seen at night by cars.  I wonder whether LED lights could be powered by the old generators we used to have that got power from the wheel turning.  Then we wouldn't need to buy batteries. 

Of course, when I ask questions like that, I have to go look it up and yes - the old dynamo idea is alive and well.

Kent 96049 Generator Light Set

$11 online

1 review

Bicycle light set generator Never run out of the light you need to see what's in front of you. Large white headlight and small red tail light are powered by a 6 volt, 3 watt generator. No need for batteries, every pedal powers the lights.

But does this have the brightness of LED?  And does it work after you stop?

Planet Bike has a front light that attaches to a dynamo.

And here's a Supernova kit for the dynamo. 

Check on liine - the prices vary enormously.