Originally Posted by
CompleteStreets
...USB is a no go for me. I want lights that I can permanently mount on the bike. Currently I have a cheap LED headlight that I attached to the handlebars by wrapping a TON of electrical tape around. In the rear, my taillight is intentionally located directly below my reflector. This makes it so the light can not be slid off by would-be thieves. They'd need either tools or have to rip it off with brute force. The lights haven't been stolen for the past six months or so. I absolutely LOVE the freedom of leaving the lights on the bike.
I understand your point about accessories that are "quick release". However if you want to leave accessories on your bike while parked ( locked ) somewhere "thief" is always going to be a potential threat. Judging from what you wrote and the amount of money you're willing to spend I think the idea of a cheap(er) rear friction dynamo and light is likely the best idea. The products that "tcs" recommended sounds like a plan.
On the other hand if it were me I likely go with a good self contained LED lamp that has the option for removeable battery. Yes, you would have to remove the lamp when you leave the bike for extended periods but in my view I would be willing to do that. Since I'm likely carrying a bunch of other stuff anyway I figure a couple more small items wouldn't be too much more to deal with. Takes just a minute or so to put back on. Since it takes me a good while to prepare to ride my bike anyway I figure, "Whats an extra minute"? If I'm going to stress out over something it's likely going to be about whether or not the entire bike gets pinched but that's just me.
All said, no matter what you leave on or take off your bike, there is always going to be the threat of someone stealing your entire bike which would be my major concern. If I were to leave a bike locked outside everyday I would just have to equip the bike with less expensive accessories or with accessories that are easily removed ( by me ).