Electronics, Lighting, & Gadgets - Quicker release alternatives to LockBlock

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duppie
11-22-08, 06:56 PM
Hi,
I use two Fenix L2Ds secured by LockBlocks. They work well, but due to the limited space on my handlebar, it takes me a long time to get them on (maybe up to a minute). I find that too long in the middle of winter sinc e my fingers are cold before I even get on my bike. So I am looking for some quick release alternatives to lockblocks. I have a few old lights (cateyes, etc) that work that way.
Any ideas?
Thanks, Duppie.
Mod: If this is the wrong forum please move


jsharr
11-23-08, 09:09 AM
What about adding a Space Bar or Swing Grip to alleviate crowding on your bars? Should make it easy to use the lockblocks you have.

http://bike-nashbar.amazonwebstore.com/Minoura-Swing-Grip/M/B001BL8REI.htm?traffic_src=froogle&utm_medium=organic&utm_source=froogle

BarracksSi
11-23-08, 09:23 AM
I don't know where to find them, but one of my lights came with a mount that cam-locks to the bars and the light snaps into place on top:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v201/BarracksSi/For%20Sale/IMG_2642.jpg


duppie
11-23-08, 06:33 PM
I don't know where to find them, but one of my lights came with a mount that cam-locks to the bars and the light snaps into place on top:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v201/BarracksSi/For%20Sale/IMG_2642.jpg
You see, that's exactly what I'm looking for. Snap-on, snap-off.......
It wouldn't be this one?
http://www.cannondale.com/a_a/gear/08/FW/model-8lf09.html#gear_lights
Does yours have an adjustment barrel on the opposite side? If so, does it accept a wide range of sizes?
Thanks, Duppie

BarracksSi
11-23-08, 06:47 PM
You see, that's exactly what I'm looking for. Snap-on, snap-off.......
It wouldn't be this one?
http://www.cannondale.com/a_a/gear/08/FW/model-8lf09.html#gear_lights
Does yours have an adjustment barrel on the opposite side? If so, does it accept a wide range of sizes?
Thanks, Duppie

Not quite like that one -- it's purely a snap-in from the top, and doesn't secure with a screw on the side. The little clip you see dangling from the back actually attaches to a lanyard, which you'd secure to the handlebars in hopes of keeping the light from bouncing out of the clip (which didn't happen to me for the time I used it). Like any snap-in part, though, it won't accept a very wide range of sizes, and I have no idea if it'll work with your Fenix.

The base is separate, and is the same as the one on Cannondale's site; you'd slide the strap to fit the bar diameter, and adjust the cam lever much like a regular quick release.

bicycleflyer
11-23-08, 08:46 PM
The absolute cheapest thing, and quick release too is to cut a piece of inner tube. You'll need something like an old MTB inner tube to get a band large enough. Cut a cross section off the inner tube about 1/4 of an inch thick. Wrap one end around your light, then loop it under the handle bar. Secure the second end to the light.

Not sure if I explained it in a way that is understandable to you. If I can find a pic of what I am describing I will post it. But here is a pic that is pretty darn close to what I am describing.

http://www.niteize.com/productdetail.php?category_id=28&product_id=79

Ziemas
11-23-08, 10:52 PM
Are you taking the mount off each time or just the light? What exactly is slowing you down?

FWIW, I use LockBlocks in the winter, have crowded bars, and have never had an issue. Maybe you could try swapping the LockBlocks to a different position if you aren't able to access them easily with gloves.

BarracksSi
11-23-08, 11:33 PM
^^^ Either that, and/or adjust the straps so that you can easily tug the velcro open. I agree, these Lockblocks don't take long to open up -- I use some to carry a lock sometimes.

bowman12
11-24-08, 05:51 AM
How about this one? http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.8274

duppie
11-24-08, 01:00 PM
Are you taking the mount off each time or just the light? What exactly is slowing you down?

FWIW, I use LockBlocks in the winter, have crowded bars, and have never had an issue. Maybe you could try swapping the LockBlocks to a different position if you aren't able to access them easily with gloves.

I am taking the mount off each time, so I have to wrap the velcro underneath the handlebar, where the brake and gear cables get in the way. It is actually hard enough so that I have to take off my gloves. Hence my search for a quicker solution.
I will try just taking the light off and hope no one steals the mount.
Thanks, Duppie

sumguy
11-24-08, 03:20 PM
The absolute cheapest thing, and quick release too is to cut a piece of inner tube. You'll need something like an old MTB inner tube to get a band large enough. Cut a cross section off the inner tube about 1/4 of an inch thick. Wrap one end around your light, then loop it under the handle bar. Secure the second end to the light.

Not sure if I explained it in a way that is understandable to you. If I can find a pic of what I am describing I will post it. But here is a pic that is pretty darn close to what I am describing.

http://www.niteize.com/productdetail.php?category_id=28&product_id=79

Video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HrfZhEzjWwg&feature=related)of how to make inner tube flashlight mount

Fredmertz51
11-24-08, 04:08 PM
I've been using a 1" alligator clamp with a Coleman Max AA zip tied to it. Holds it solid.

JAG410
11-24-08, 08:11 PM
99 cent 2" ID O-ring works for me.

Ziemas
11-24-08, 11:31 PM
I am taking the mount off each time, so I have to wrap the velcro underneath the handlebar, where the brake and gear cables get in the way. It is actually hard enough so that I have to take off my gloves. Hence my search for a quicker solution.
I will try just taking the light off and hope no one steals the mount.
Thanks, Duppie

Well there's your problem! :)

If you're really worried about someone stealing your mount (FWIW I leave mine on my bike in the city center every day, as I'm sure others here also do) then you can always sew the two pieces of velcro together making it a real PITA to remove.