Note: the legal requirements described in this article are those in force in France. If you ride in the United States, Australia or elsewhere, check the rules that apply in your state or territory, as they differ.
An early start, a ride home that runs late or fog: bike lights aren't only for planned night rides. To choose your lights, start from two needs: being spotted by other road users and seeing the road well enough to adjust your riding.
Mandatory equipment in France
According to Service Public (the French government's official information site), at night or when visibility is poor, your bike must have a non-dazzling yellow or white front light and a clearly visible, non-flashing red rear light. These rules were checked on October 16, 2026.
The bike must also have a white reflector at the front, at least one red reflector at the rear and orange reflectors on the pedals. Side visibility relies on orange reflectors on the wheels, with an exception for tires fitted with approved retroreflective strips.
Outside built-up areas, at night or when visibility is poor, the rider and any passenger must wear a high-visibility vest. Reflectors complement lights; they don't replace a light that's switched on.
Is a flashing rear light enough?
Not in France. The rear position light must be steady, not flashing. The French Federation of Bicycle Users (FUB) points out this change, introduced in November 2024. Don't confuse this red light with turn signals, whose flashing serves a different purpose.
If your light offers several modes, identify the steady mode before your first ride. Also check what it remembers after being switched off: a light that automatically restarts in another mode needs your attention every time you turn it on.
Choosing a front light for your route
On a road without street lighting, you need to be able to read the road surface ahead of you. On a lit street, being visible to other road users remains essential. The FUB suggests looking in particular at the light cast on the ground and the shape of the beam.
So don't choose based only on the number of modes or a promise of "high power". Look at the available data, the battery life in the mode you'll use and how the light mounts. Aim the beam at the road, avoiding dazzling oncoming people.
Check your lights with your bags fitted
Set up the bike as you'll actually ride it: saddle bag, jacket, rack and any load. Then look at the lights from the front and the back. A light can work perfectly while being hidden by a bag or a piece of clothing.
Test that the mounts are stable and make sure straps can't reach the wheel. Keep some battery in reserve for a detour or a repair. For regular commutes, tie charging to a specific habit, such as putting the bike away when you arrive.
Quick check before you ride
- Switch on both lights and check the selected mode.
- Check the charge and that the lenses are clean.
- Check the aim, the mounts and that nothing blocks the lights.
- Check your reflectors and bring a vest when conditions require it.
Discover the OZALO light kit
Our OZALO Bike Light Kit comes with USB-rechargeable front and rear lights. Check the product page and confirm the steady rear mode and the battery life suited to your ride before choosing. For unlit roads, also check the front light's performance: having two lights isn't, on its own, enough to validate the setup for every use.