Visibility in Graz: Lights on, brains on.
May 2026, the days are getting longer, the evenings milder. Actually brilliant for cycling. If it weren’t for this stubborn habit many people have of moving through the Graz night as if they were virtually invisible. Every year I find myself wondering whether this is intentional.
Especially now, when it gets dark late in the evening but then all of a sudden, you see them again: the ninja cyclists. Completely cloaked in black, no lights – neither front nor rear. On the Murr Cycle Path, at Jakominiplatz or on Grieskai, they appear out of nowhere. Sometimes I wonder if people think their inner glow is enough to be seen by a car. Spoiler: it isn’t.
And yet it’s not rocket science:
- Lights at the front and back. Securely mounted on the bike, not in your pocket.
- Reflectors. Yes, those little things on the spokes and pedals really do help.
- Bright clothing. You don’t have to be a walking neon sign, but a bright rucksack or jacket really does make a difference.
It’s not about how well you can see. It’s about how well you can be seen. Especially in the city, where drivers often have enough distractions to contend with. A small light on your bike might save you a trip to A&E and the driver a lot of trouble. Think about it the next time you set off in the dark.
How about you? Show us your setup for the dark hours – ideally with a view of the Mur! #bikegraz on Instagram or Bluesky.
