DIY Bicycle Light

The naysayers (aka - Gibosama) say that it can't be done. That I should just cough up $300 or $400 smackers to get a brand name light like a Niterider or something. The naysayers also say that it can't be done at low cost or with good results...well...I'm up to the challenge!!!

I've been researching the possibility of building my own homemade bicycle light for a while now. So much so that last night, I went over to Home Depot and bought some of the base parts I need. Specifically, a MR16 20w 12V spot (15 degree) halogen bulb, and a 1-1/2 PVC sleeve and cap. The only other "big" items I need will be a ceramic light socket for the MR16, some connectors, and the most expensive item, a 13V or 14V rechargable battery and smart charger.

Now believe me, I didn't just dream this up. The following are just 1 or 2 of the 20 or so website showing PROOF that it can and WILL be done: DIY Bike Lights and Tim's MTB Light .

This project now even holds more urgency as just tonight, on my way home from a short spin out to Lagoon Drive, my Performance ViewPoint light really lost its "stuffing" about 1 mile from home! Hence I plan to scavenge some of the switching/wiring that came with the Performance light for my DIY light. Since the ViewPoint was a 6V system, it looks like the wires should work since it will actually be carrying LESS current with my switch over to 12V - so is what I read! (I'm no electrical engineer, in fact, I barely scraped up a "C" in Physics 272!)

Naysayers...stay tuned - with sunglasses! ;-)