These DIY Illuminated Bicycle Pedals Could Save Your Life

At this point, it is safe to say that all cyclists know that lights increase safety. Anything you can do to make drivers more aware of your presence will make them less likely to hit you and lights are great for that. But headlights and taillights may not be enough, which is why you might want to consider making these DIY illuminated bicycle pedals.

Latte342 designed these “LightSpeed Pedals” after seeing research suggesting that moving lights are more effective than lights mounted in static positions, such as on the seat post. It doesn’t take much convincing to believe that, because our perception is naturally sensitive to both bright light and movement. Spoke-mounted lights are one way to achieve that, but they’re mostly only visible from the side. Lights on the pedals are visible from the back, which reduces the chances of rear-end collisions.

A company called Red Shift Sports makes Arclight Pedals for that reason, but they’re heavy, expensive, and have limited compatibility with clipless cleat systems. Latte342 wanted illuminated pedals that are lightweight, affordable, and compatible with SPD-SL cleats. That led them to the creation of LightSpeed Pedals.

The LightSpeed Pedals system is a 3D-printable attachment for existing pedals. That means the parts don’t need much structural strength and can be made of lightweight PLA, and should fit on any pedals of the right size and shape. Other common filament materials may be more suitable if you want better heat resistance or strength. The 3D-printed shells fit over the pedals, with room for the electronic components that provide illumination.

Those electronic components are very simple and consist of LEDs, a switch, and a coin cell battery holder on a prototyping board in each pedal shell. Latte342 doesn’t mention resistors and may be relying on the current-limiting nature of the CR2025 battery, but it is a good idea to add resistors if you make these. The only other parts you need are pieces of acrylic for the windows and fasteners.

For just a few dollars, you’ll get the piece of mind that comes with making yourself more visible when cycling.