Everything you need to know about the best and brightest bike lights on the market
COMPLETE SETS
Exposure Trace and Trace R
With a day time pulse option, low size and weight and a weatherproof design, this set is perfect for the rider who wants to ensure they are visible while riding in the daytime or on lit streets. The mounts and switches are easy to use, but bear in mind this set is about being seen, and less about seeing. You’ll need a more powerful front light to illuminate your path. If the seatpost mount isn’t compatible, there are mounts available for aero posts or your saddle rails. Given the long burn times and the fact the Trace can be used like a mini hand torch, this is a great set for touring, if you have an option to recharge them as required. This British set of lights will be in use for years to come, given the quality of finishing.
Output: 110 and 75 lumens, Burn time: 3-24 hours, Modes: 3 brightness modes in pulsing or steady, Mounting: Plastic brackets with elastic attachments, Weight: 35g each, Price: $159, From: BikeBox
NiteRider Lumina Micro 450 and Sabre 50
This is a great value kit for the commuter and dedicated cyclist. While 450 lumens won’t instil confidence at high speeds on unlit roads, it will light the road in front of you before the sun rises or after it sets, and you’ll get over an hour-and-a-half use on the high setting. The beam is centrally focused, and heat fins on the unit mean flickering due to overheating is kept to a minimum. The mount can be tricky to set up but is rock solid and offers lateral adjustment to get it focused right where you want it. The rear is similar, and the small size of the light belies its punch.
Output: 450 and 50 lumens, Burn time: 1.5 – 14 hours (7.5 hours for Sabre), Modes: 3 flashing, 3 steady, Mounting: Adaptable bar mount and seatpost mounts, with angle adjust, Weight: 130g and 28g, Price: $99.95, From: JetBlack
CygoLite Dash and Hot Shot 30
This is a good value set that mounts easily and can suit a variety of handlebars and stems, and seatposts and seat angles. The 460 lumens burns the battery quickly, and this set is optimised for shorter rides in the dark such as commuting or group rides before the sun is up or after it is down. Given the long burn time for the flashing options though, they also suit daytime use if you are setting out to cover some serious ground. The mounts adapt to a variety of bar, stem and seatpost sizes and angles, making this set highly versatile.
Output: 460 lumens, Burn time: 1-63 hours, Modes: 8 modes of flashing and steady, Mounting: Elasticated mounts with lateral adjustment, Weight: 75g and 35g, Price: $159, From: Bikecorp
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