I've been a proponent and user of rechargeable LED lights for many years, but finally broke down and ordered a dynamo wheel and light system recently. It doesn't really make sense financially but I am just ready to try out some new gadgets. Rechargeable LED lights have worked well for me because they are inexpensive and easy to switch among bikes, and I commute on 5 different bikes. However, I have been commuting more and more frequently on a single bike, my Bob Jackson World Tour, because it is set up best for that purpose, with a rear rack, fenders and triple drive train.

What prompted the switch was a spare rear wheel that I've had hanging in the garage for a while, and my initial plan to buy a front wheel to match it, so I would have a backup wheel set for commuting. That got me thinking: Why not get a dynamo front wheel for an extra $100 or so? Of course, by the time I added a dynamo headlight, taillight, etc., it ended up costing me much more.

My spare wheel was built for touring/commuting with a strong Velocity Dyad rim, Ultegra hub and 36 spokes. The new dynamo front wheel will have a Dyad rim, Shutter Precision SP-8 hub and 32 spokes. Initially I was going to order a relatively inexpensive headlight but ultimately decided to get a B&M Luxos U headlight because it has a USB port for charging electronic gear such as smart phones. This set up will allow me to use my iPhone for navigation and tracking rides without using up the battery, a feature that I would like for touring. I also ordered a B&M taillight that will mount to my rear rack. The Luxos costs twice as much as the light that I was initially going to get, but actually costs less than buying a less expensive light along with a separate USB charging unit.

One of the reasons why I have hesitated buying a dynamo system was the additional weight from the front hub. However, I will be removing the Nitto front rack from my bike when I install the new dynamo wheel, so it actually might be a little bit lighter weight. I've also been concerned about the dynamo wheel slowing me down, but the SP hub is supposed to be very low drag.

I'll post some photos and a review once I get the new system installed and operated.