What a wealth of information on this thread. I am planning to start commuting soon, 15 miles each way in the NoCal bay area. The following is my plan so far...

HOUSING

I have decided to venture into building my own custom lighting. I have ordered the Optronics QH-7CC from here: $22.92
http://www.nationalwholesaletools.co...OD&ProdID=2564

Here is Optronics webiste for various lamps - it appears the QH-8CC and QH-7CC use MR-16
http://www.optronicsinc.com/competition.htm (I think DCCommuter ordered the QH-8CC from JC)

I selected the QH-7CC because it was available from other sources with better info and model numbers, and they actually had photos of what I am getting, so I hope I am not surprised.

BULBS:

Before I order replacement bulbs I want to see if the QH-7CC comes with attached bulb lenses or not, or if I can get them off easily. Also check if there is a secondary housing lense. Then I could pop a couple of these 10W bulbs in. 2 for $9.98 including S&H

http://www.goldmine-elec-products.co...item=1&mitem=4

They will be flood I think, but will get me started. I can pick up a 20W MR16 narrow spot at HD, later. I have a Cateye 210, 5 LED (be seen/see a little) light already.

BATTERY

I'm still not set on SLA vs. NiMH.

Here is a 12V 4500mAh NiMH w/ smart charger for $49.99 +S&H.
http://www.batteryspace.com/index.as...OD&ProdID=1494

Of course I could get the (1.89"wide) 12V 4500mAh SLA w/smart charger for around $30+S&H http://www.zbattery.com/zbattery/hc1217w.html.

I like the narrow SLA, as it will probably look less geeky, although I am probably in the wrong thread for that.

Each of the above (SLA or NiMH) would fit in a frame bag. $5.99+S&H
http://www.nashbar.com/profile.cfm?c...ype=&estoreid=

Problem is the SLA is 4# and with a 15 mile commute on a road bike, I think I will notice the extra weight. No? Only $25 more for NiMH, I will probably go with this.

Anyway, I am going to wait for the Optronics MR16 housings before I make my next move.

I'll keep everyone posted.

SharpT