A year ago I had the misfortune of crashing on black ice. The resulting injuries caused me to miss 3 weeks of bicycling. This winter I decided that maybe I should look into "studded" tires. My hope was to be able to safely ride many more days than I have in the past.

I am always on the look out for additional lighting for my commutes in the early morning or at night after it gets dark. I always thought that bicycle shoe manufacturers should make a pair of shoes like little kids have with the flashing red lights in the soles. When I saw the ad for the Pedalite system I had to check them out.

According to their web site, "the Pedalite battery free 360 Degree Visibility Pedal Lights are the original & unique eco safety pedal lights for bicycles, designed to make cyclists more visible to motorists day and night from any angle including the side.

After I reviewed the Portable Bicycle Indicator I received a tip from one of members about the Glo Glov. I went to their web site and ordered the gloves that are designed to stretch over your regular gloves.

(aka "Turn Signals")

One of my concerns with night riding is whether traffic behind me can see me making a left hand turn signal. When I saw the promotion for a flashing turn signal I had to give it a try.

According to their information, "the Safe Turn Indicator is a small portable, automatic bicycle indicator that clips to a glove or a wristband. It contains 3 ultra bright L.E.Ds, it blinks similar to a motor vehicle. It can be worn on either hand and blinking is visible up to 800+ meters. It stays blinking as long as your hand is raised. Batteries (2 x A76) can be replaced."

Over the years I have tried everything to keep my toes warm in the winter months. I have tried shoe covers, covers on the toe clips, toe warmers, wool socks, sock liners, winter cycling shoes, neoprene socks, baggies over the socks and many other ways that I have long since discarded and remember. Last winter I stumbled on the answer for me, Thermo Soles.