What equipment must bicycles have when being operated at nighttime according to Minnesota law?

Bicycles operated at nighttime in Minnesota are required to have specific equipment to ensure the safety of the rider and to make the bicycle visible to others. This law mandates the use of a front headlight that must be visible for at least 500 feet, allowing other road users to see the cyclist from a distance. Additionally, bicycles must be equipped with rear reflectors that can be seen from 100 to 600 feet away. This reflective equipment enhances visibility in low-light conditions, reducing the risk of accidents by alerting motorists and other cyclists of the bike’s presence.

By having both a front headlight and rear reflectors, cyclists can significantly improve their safety while riding at night. This requirement helps to ensure that cyclists are not only able to see their path ahead but are also visible to oncoming traffic, which is critical for preventing collisions. The other options, such as having only a helmet or no specific equipment requirement, do not meet the legal standards set forth to protect cyclists, while an identification tag, while useful, does not address visibility and safety in the context of nighttime riding.