Posting in both Electronics & Commuting, since this is about electronics for commuting ;)

I am very close to buying a Dinotte XLS 600 Dual. Are there any alternatives I should consider?

The big reasons for purchasing:
• Dual light heads – much more respect from cagers
• Bright (doh!)
• Simple, can run off 1 battery strapped to stem
• Adequate run time (1.5-2hrs off 1 batt on HI)

Not acceptable for me:
• Bottle batteries
• DIY - been there, not happy with complexity/frustration/weight…..

Are there any comparable alternatives? Price is not a huge motivation. I use my lights a LOT, so am willing to shell out some change.

I’m currently running dual Fenix P3D Premium, 215 lumen each on Turbo. Light output is OK (impressive considering size, weight, cost of light) but runtime has been disappointing. Commuting this AM in the rainy dark, with downed tree branches & crap on the roads from the storms, I was really wishing for more power also.

Thanks!

i hear ya....i tried two p3d's as well (with rechargeables) and yeah the run time sucks. it sucks having to stop to swap out batteries. I couldn't afford the dual set up so i just received a single 600L. its really bright. I'll probably use one of the fenix p3d's on my helmet on the high setting. the other p3d...im using as a tail light with the red filter. I'm considering ordering another bike mount and light engine (as the 600L came with 2 batteries). In the end I think it'll cost the same as getting the xls 600 set up.

alternative......the cygolite tridenx but its not a dual set up...and only in the 450-500 lumen range vs 1200 for the slx 600 set up.

The other option is the lupine series...without the bottle batteries. If $ isn't an issue the Lupine Betty puts out a lot of light.
But the dual set up just makes it more versatile imo....and dinotte is made in the usa.

Given your preference for a dual headlight setup, I think Dinotte is the best way to go for the price ($750). Another option to consider is a dual Exposure Enduro MaXx setup (1400 lumens) for $900. Runtime for that would be 3hrs on high, and batteries are self-contained within the lighthead (ie no cables but heavier weight on handlebars). See link below:

http://www.exposurelightsusa.com/

Also are you worried more about seeing or being seen? If mostly the latter, dual 200Ls would be much cheaper but still command ample respect from motorists.

i hear ya....i tried two p3d's as well (with rechargeables) and yeah the run time sucks. it sucks having to stop to swap out batteries.

alternative......the cygolite tridenx but its not a dual set up...and only in the 450-500 lumen range vs 1200 for the slx 600 set up.

The other option is the lupine series...without the bottle batteries. If $ isn't an issue the Lupine Betty puts out a lot of light.
But the dual set up just makes it more versatile imo....and dinotte is made in the usa.

Thanks for the feedback!

changing batteries DOES suck, even if it only takes like 30 sec, but if it's cold or rainy... no fun.

the TridenX is a nice lite, and even 2 of em would be cheaper than the 600xls, but... they can't both run off one battery. I do like the Cygo lights though, i recommend them to friends, and a few co-workers have them.

I'd consider dual Lupines but they aren't set up to run off 1 battery and they are stupid pricey! not sure if i could convince myself to spend more on a bike lite than i did on my first car, even if I could afford it!

I did price a Dinotte system with 2 lite heads and just one or 2 batteries, but it only would have saved like $50. Rob suggested just cycling the 4 (4!) batteries it comes with.

Given your preference for a dual headlight setup, I think Dinotte is the best way to go for the price ($750). Another option to consider is a dual Exposure Enduro MaXx setup (1400 lumens) for $900. Runtime for that would be 3hrs on high, and batteries are self-contained within the lighthead (ie no cables but heavier weight on handlebars). See link below:

http://www.exposurelightsusa.com/

Also are you worried more about seeing or being seen? If mostly the latter, dual 200Ls would be much cheaper but still command ample respect from motorists.

I am concerned with both being seen and seeing. the dual Fenix setup is as bright as dual 200L's, and I'd call it only "adequate" for nasty conditions (wet, unfamiliar roads). The LED's don't do so good in the wet. I've found the dual setup gets a lot more respect from motorists.

The Exposure lites are a great suggestion, thanks. Let's compare, shall we??

Dinotte 600XLS: 1.5lb with 2 heads & one batt, 1200lumen, $750, 1.5-2hr runtime

2 EnduroMaxx weighs almost exactly one pound, $900, 3hr runtime

2 Race Maxx: 3/4 lb, close to 1000 lumen, $700, 3hr runtime

Hmmm.... Thanks! food for thought!

I recently upgraded to the single 600L, which I run helmet mounted for my 7 mile (one way) commute. My commute is a mix of suburban and semi-rural (i.e., dark) roadways and the 600L puts out a prodigious amount of light.

With the light helmet mounted, I can aim it right at drivers coming in from side streets or pulling out of driveways. On several occasions I've seen cars stay in one spot for quite a while until I passed...I suspect they must be mistaking me for a motorcycle (or a flying saucer :D).

Frankly, short of technical single track mountain bike racing, I can't imagine needing 1200 lumens...but, if money's not an issue, you won't be sorry with the Dinotte.


Also, for commuting in the Dallas suburbs (given all the jacked up SUV's and trucks) I highly recommend the 140L taillight. I run mine in slow flash mode (about one bright strobe per second, with a lower power setting between flashes). I run that, plus two Planet Bike Superflash (also in flash mode), and have not had any problems with overtaking cars failing to notice me.

Thanks for the feedback!

changing batteries DOES suck, even if it only takes like 30 sec, but if it's cold or rainy... no fun.

the TridenX is a nice lite, and even 2 of em would be cheaper than the 600xls, but... they can't both run off one battery. I do like the Cygo lights though, i recommend them to friends, and a few co-workers have them.

I'd consider dual Lupines but they aren't set up to run off 1 battery and they are stupid pricey! not sure if i could convince myself to spend more on a bike lite than i did on my first car, even if I could afford it!

I did price a Dinotte system with 2 lite heads and just one or 2 batteries, but it only would have saved like $50. Rob suggested just cycling the 4 (4!) batteries it comes with.

fenix p3d on turbo lasted about an hour 15 minutes. which is cool, but when you're sweaty and on a good pace, then having to pull off the road, get the extra batteries out, unscrew the light with sweaty hands as cars are passing by in the dark. Kinda sucks. I was wondering if I could just buy another light engine and bike mount, but Rob hasn't responded to my emails....blah...did you call?

fenix p3d on turbo lasted about an hour 15 minutes. which is cool, but when you're sweaty and on a good pace, then having to pull off the road, get the extra batteries out, unscrew the light with sweaty hands as cars are passing by in the dark. Kinda sucks. I was wondering if I could just buy another light engine and bike mount, but Rob hasn't responded to my emails....blah...did you call?

Rob is the Dinotte dude, so if you're after him for Fenix parts, he prolly won't respond...
Fenix tech support has been responsive, I've used their email contact a few times. I'd guess they're not too keen on user-mods to their lights though.

I think a P3D that takes a 18650 cell or 3 or 4 cr123a's would be the BOMB. get 3+ hrs runtime.

Cheers

I recently upgraded to the single 600L, which I run helmet mounted for my 7 mile (one way) commute. My commute is a mix of suburban and semi-rural (i.e., dark) roadways and the 600L puts out a prodigious amount of light.

With the light helmet mounted, I can aim it right at drivers coming in from side streets or pulling out of driveways. On several occasions I've seen cars stay in one spot for quite a while until I passed...I suspect they must be mistaking me for a motorcycle (or a flying saucer :D).

Frankly, short of technical single track mountain bike racing, I can't imagine needing 1200 lumens...but, if money's not an issue, you won't be sorry with the Dinotte.


Also, for commuting in the Dallas suburbs (given all the jacked up SUV's and trucks) I highly recommend the 140L taillight. I run mine in slow flash mode (about one bright strobe per second, with a lower power setting between flashes). I run that, plus two Planet Bike Superflash (also in flash mode), and have not had any problems with overtaking cars failing to notice me.


thanks for the input!

I run my lights on the bars. I tried helmet for a while but lost depth perception since shadows are gone - i'd roll over stuff I couldn't "see" even though i had plenty of light.

The best part by far of the helmet light is being able to point it right at drivers, I agree. Stopped em dead a few times. I might use a P3D on Hi on the head-bucket just for that, regardless what light system on the bars I get.

I've been tempted by the 140l tailight, but my coworkers (who pass me on the nastiest stretch of my commute) say they have no problem seeing & avoiding me as is. I use an older but still bright 7led tailight on flash & lots of reflective material on helmet, shoes, ankles. I'm a big fan of reflective stuff on legs & wheels especially, the movement catches the eye and is instantly recognizeable, and gives the driver some depth perception to work with.

I know some folks get the 140L cause it's the "brightest dam' thing there is", but I'm not a fan of blinding people coming up behind me, no way!

cheers

oh i asked about getting another 600L...and bike mount.
since i bought the single set up.

I've had several Nite Rider setups over the years but replaced them this year with these:

1. Light & Motion Hid LiIon Ultra
- 675 lumens of intense light, the large battery gives ~6hrs of run time

2. Light & Motion Stella LiIon
- 180 lumens but am amazed at house useful the pattern is. Very light setup. ~3hrs runtime

3. Nite Rider Millinewt X2 Dual Lion
- 300 or so lumens, dual setup, very small package. The daylight flashing mode has to be seen to be appreciated! 2-3hrs of runtime or so

The L&M Hid setup gives a HUGE orb of very useable light w/a bright center spot. I use it on the handlebar and others who ride with me call it "daylight" :-) Almost too bright to be used behind other folks you'd like to ride with again but amazing output & L&M quality.

The Stella is a fantastic little light setup. Helmet mount is a breeze and gives me wonderful "point" coverage on the trail.

Still playing with the Millinewt setup. Very tiny, not a bad run time and flexible with the two light heads.

Also in this price range is the Lupine Betty 6 which can be had for under $900 depending on where you look. It is one light, but hey it is one light that puts out 1400 lumens so you can't really complain. You get 3 hours runtime on high (1400 lumens) and a battery that frame mounts or you can use it helmet mounted. Plus a light that is built tough with unequaled adjustability with it's brightness levels. It's something worth considering anyway.

http://www.exposurelightsusa.com/

You could go with 2 Race MaXx for $700. 960 lumens and 3 hours runtime and no wires.

There is a trade-off between brightness and runtime within the same price category.

I personally would go for the longer runtime and no wires. I don't think you will notice the difference in light output when they are running. And there is nothing worse than running out of battery capacity or having to worry about it during the last part of the ride.

http://www.brlights.com/stats.html

Take a look at these. A little different design, but high quality and no wires. Read the reviews and watch the video.

http://www.gearreview.com/2007_led_lights.php
This review gives great information.

http://acidinmylegs.blogspot.com/search/label/lights
A new review will be coming out shortly.

Thanks for the suggestions dekindy -
USE and BR both have interesting lights.
The USE lights I've seen before and am tempted by. crazy light, slick design, and they've been around a few years.
I do worry a bit about support from both companies - BR has a barely functional website, USE is in the UK. and while integrated batts are a cool concept, I've had poor luck with expensive batteries in the past.

I sure wish Gear would post a new review - lights have changed a lot in the last year.

Cheers