Originally Posted by
ThomasAndrew
Reflector Mount Bolts - if you have basic reflector mounts then I would say try to find one of the older CatEye Reflex or TL-LD500 taillights. They are the only one that are a real reflector and also pretty good flashing lights. I like the idea of a passive ( real reflector ) aspect of the light.
The other thing to keep in mind is that a lot of the rack companies are moving towards a mounting system that is standard in Europe. This has a two bolt mount that fits horizontally on the rack. I know some light companies are also making mounts for their lights that fit this new rack system.
I use a new version of the Reflex with this...
http://www.cateye.com/store/parts.php?cid=3_30
For a modern / current taillight with a reflector, what about the Portland Designs Radbot 1000?
Comes with rack mount as well as two other mounts. Gets great reviews, and brighter than the PB Superflash. I may put down some money for one, as my Trice OEM rack has the standard Euro mount points as well as a few other options.
For an affordable steady rear light, about the best I have found is a red 200+ lumen LED Ultrafire flashlight with one of the better DealExtreme bike mounts. I've got mine mounted to a rear crossbar on my rack at the moment, but had it on the seat back before.
The flashlight is solid aluminum 'tactical' style, the bike mount is plastic, but for $12 for the entire package shipped to my home, that is pretty much a bargain.
Batteries are extra, but that goes for most of them.
As for knowing whether it is on or off, not a problem at night, it lights up the road behind me, easily visible in the rearview mirror. Street signs are visible for 100s of yards.
I use a blinky for backup and long battery life, and the Ultrafire to wake up the motorists.