The bicycle's lighting system should be checked in the fall at the latest. Its individual components are prescribed and defined by the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO). If the lights are missing or not operational, this is not only dangerous, but can also result in a fine of up to 35 euros.

The StVZO stipulates the following:

• A white front headlight - preferably with built-in LED light, sensor and parking light function
• A red rear light - preferably with parking light

Battery lighting is also permitted. But be careful: batteries often last much less in the cold. Regular recharging is therefore important. The lighting is only approved for road traffic if it bears the test mark of the Federal Motor Transport Authority. This consists of a wavy line, the capital letter K and a five-digit number.

If you want to be out and about in all weathers, the ADFC recommends maintenance-free lighting technology: hub dynamo, LED rear light with parking light and LED front light - preferably also with parking light. In contrast to battery lighting, these are guaranteed to always be with you. Unlike side-running dynamos, hub dynamos do not slip in wet or slushy conditions and generate sufficient power at all times, even in winter.

Important: Set the light correctly

The headlight should be mounted in such a way that it illuminates the area in front of the bike well. In addition, the far end of the light cone should be visible as a clear cut-off line on the road. This enables good illumination of the road and avoids dazzling oncoming traffic.

The following are also mandatory:

• a white front reflector, which can be integrated in the headlight.
• a red Z-reflector, which can be integrated in the rear light.
• yellow reflectors on the pedals

To ensure that cyclists are also clearly visible from the side, at least one of the following side reflectors is also required on the front and rear wheel:

• Reflective strips on the tires or rims or in the spokes
• Completely white reflective spokes or spokes fitted with spoke sleeves/sticks
• at least two yellow spoke reflectors, offset by 180 degrees

High-contrast, bright clothing or clothing with additional reflective surfaces increases the visibility of cyclists - especially in rain and fog. It is often more visible in the dark than the lights on the bike itself. Clothing, shoes and helmets in bright colors and with reflective stripes also attract attention. Luminous or reflective accessories such as LED bands for arms and legs, high-visibility vests and reflective harnesses as well as reflectors on rucksacks and bags provide additional visibility.

It is also important to dress appropriately for the temperature. If you are cold on your bike at low temperatures, you will be more immobile and less able to react to unexpected situations.

Reflective bicycle accessories also increase visibility. Therefore, when buying bike bags, baskets, child seats or trailers, it makes sense to ensure that they act as extra light sources in the dark, for example by using reflective strips.

In addition to your own lighting, street lighting also plays a decisive role - both for your own vision and for being seen. Therefore, if possible, choose well-lit streets.