I looked at some "bicycle lighting systems" many of which were no more than a blinky light for over a hundred bucks. I guess I dan't value my own safety enough, but the day I pay over a hundred bucks for a tiny flashing light is the day I plan to take a nap on the railroad tracks...
Instead of the already available lighting systems, I manufactured a set of three bar mount brackets, as well as two seat post brckets. On days when I plan to commute after dark, I put the brackets on.
Two brackets up front hold a pair of 4 cell maglights, between those I have a temporary use 2,000,000 candlepower rechargeable spotlight for those times when I need to get somebody to pay attention to the dude on the bike.
In the rear, I have a pair of military style flashlights with red diffiusing covers. VERY bright.
I also keep a minimag light on my belt for "spotting" if I need to take a quick look off to the side.
The entire system is not nearly as heavy as you'd think, a little over four pounds total, including the aluminum bracketry. And, I find it a LOT more effective at even 500 yards than the little lights I looked at in the LBS.
Total cost for everything; Right around $70. And, the smallest light I have is a 1 3/4" diameter. As opposed to paying twice as much for half the light.
It doesn't blink, or flash, but it does project a light Stevie Wonder could see. If it is foggy or overcast, I tilt the 2mil spotlight about 5 degrees off to the side so as not to blind oncoming drivers and keep on going. So far, I've not even had anyone get within 20 feet of me.
In the end, it comes down to one thing; would you rather pay for the convenience of a "kit" or would you rather invest less money, more time, and make a system that will save your bacon? Surely if you can wrench on your own bike, you should be able to figure out mounting a headlight on it!!!!!