I think the difference is that indicator lights aren't the type of flashing strobe lights cyclists use. There's definitely a much greater brightness there, plus indicators are generally a softer yellow, non-piercing light. They definitely don't have the same effect.

yeah it seems that the bicycle lights I have, purchased over a decade ago, are not as bright as the new ones. They glow, but they do not pierce, and the blink isn't super fast, If I wanted to use it. The headlight is adjustable to be a cheery presence at its lowest.