Newbie wanting to buy a bright light in the $150 range
12-29-06 | 11:39 PM
#1
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
From: Victoria, BC
Newbie wanting to buy a bright light in the $150 range
I am a relatively new commuter, and am looking to buy a brighter light for pitch-black commuting.
(This is my first post, so please point me in the right direction if there's already a thread that I should be reading.)
I have a cheap light that barely illuminates more than the absolute minimum. I want to buy something on eBay in the $100 - $150 (definitely not over $200) range that will be really bright. (I would prefer brightness over long-lasting battery power if I have to trade-off in this price range.)
I am not a particularly technical person, so I'm just looking for some friendly advice. Any thoughts?
Thanks for your help,
Laura-Jane in British Columbia, Canada
(This is my first post, so please point me in the right direction if there's already a thread that I should be reading.)
I have a cheap light that barely illuminates more than the absolute minimum. I want to buy something on eBay in the $100 - $150 (definitely not over $200) range that will be really bright. (I would prefer brightness over long-lasting battery power if I have to trade-off in this price range.)
I am not a particularly technical person, so I'm just looking for some friendly advice. Any thoughts?
Thanks for your help,
Laura-Jane in British Columbia, Canada
12-30-06 | 02:56 AM
#2
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 548
Likes: 0
From: Boston
Bikes: Jamis Coda Sport '06
You should head over to the commuting forum here.
The Light selection guide sticky can be helpful but it's pretty information dense.
You should also consider reading the vast quantities of old threads on lights. There's a wealth of information in the forum archives and you'll likely learn a lot more than waiting on people to reply to your question alone.
The Light selection guide sticky can be helpful but it's pretty information dense.
You should also consider reading the vast quantities of old threads on lights. There's a wealth of information in the forum archives and you'll likely learn a lot more than waiting on people to reply to your question alone.
12-30-06 | 08:36 AM
#3
Baby it's cold outside...
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 7,310
Likes: 1
From: SK, Canada
Bikes: Trek 5000, Rocky Mountain Wedge, GT Karakoram K2, Litespeed Tuscany
Laura-Jane, If you are close to a MEC go and have a look at the Night Hawk K2 Digital Emitter to see if it fits your needs.
$159 CND @ MEC
I have heard good things about these. A fellow forum member, Waytoomanybikes had a good thread about these lights before the sever crash.
$159 CND @ MEC
I have heard good things about these. A fellow forum member, Waytoomanybikes had a good thread about these lights before the sever crash.
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-Trek 5000* -Project Litespeed* -The Italian Job* -Rocky Wedge* -The Canadian Connection*
-Trek 5000* -Project Litespeed* -The Italian Job* -Rocky Wedge* -The Canadian Connection*
12-30-06 | 08:44 AM
#4
Banned
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 10,082
Likes: 1
theracksource on ebay has the Cateye Double Shot for around USD170 shipped. I ordered one and am quite happy with it. It's small, bright, and the battery lasts for over 5 hours. Keep in mind that it is a very focused spotlight.
12-30-06 | 09:47 AM
#5
ride for a change
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 2,221
Likes: 2
From: Minneapolis, MN
Bikes: Surly Cross-check & Moonlander, Pivot Mach 429, Ted Wojcik Sof-Trac, Ridley Orion. Santa Cruz Stigmata
Considering your needs and my experience, I'd recommend the Light & Motion Vega. Price lists at USD $199, but it can be found in the $150 range. I bought one this summer and have been commuting with it all this fall on city streets, and long stretches of very dark bike paths. I've been very impressed by it performance. It's very bright. compact, simple. No extra wires, a smart charger, and easy to remove and throw it in your pocket or bag.
I've found that it lasts me about a week between charges (3 hours run time, my ride home mostly) I use the flashing feature on well lit city streets, and the full power on the paths. I can't say enough about it. It has exceeded my expectations, and I love the simplicity of it.
good luck!
I've found that it lasts me about a week between charges (3 hours run time, my ride home mostly) I use the flashing feature on well lit city streets, and the full power on the paths. I can't say enough about it. It has exceeded my expectations, and I love the simplicity of it.
good luck!
12-30-06 | 10:17 AM
#6
Infamous Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 24,360
Likes: 7
From: Ohio
Bikes: Surly Big Dummy, Fuji World, 80ish Bianchi
Originally Posted by modernjess
Considering your needs and my experience, I'd recommend the Light & Motion Vega. Price lists at USD $199, but it can be found in the $150 range. I bought one this summer and have been commuting with it all this fall on city streets, and long stretches of very dark bike paths. I've been very impressed by it performance. It's very bright. compact, simple. No extra wires, a smart charger, and easy to remove and throw it in your pocket or bag.
I've found that it lasts me about a week between charges (3 hours run time, my ride home mostly) I use the flashing feature on well lit city streets, and the full power on the paths. I can't say enough about it. It has exceeded my expectations, and I love the simplicity of it.
good luck!
I've found that it lasts me about a week between charges (3 hours run time, my ride home mostly) I use the flashing feature on well lit city streets, and the full power on the paths. I can't say enough about it. It has exceeded my expectations, and I love the simplicity of it.
good luck!
__________________
"Let us hope our weapons are never needed --but do not forget what the common people knew when they demanded the Bill of Rights: An armed citizenry is the first defense, the best defense, and the final defense against tyranny. If guns are outlawed, only the government will have guns. Only the police, the secret police, the military, the hired servants of our rulers. Only the government -- and a few outlaws. I intend to be among the outlaws" - Edward Abbey
"Let us hope our weapons are never needed --but do not forget what the common people knew when they demanded the Bill of Rights: An armed citizenry is the first defense, the best defense, and the final defense against tyranny. If guns are outlawed, only the government will have guns. Only the police, the secret police, the military, the hired servants of our rulers. Only the government -- and a few outlaws. I intend to be among the outlaws" - Edward Abbey
12-30-06 | 01:30 PM
#7
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
From: Victoria, BC
Thanks for all the input!
I did check out the sticky spreadsheet, which was really helpful.
I've decided to go with the Light & Motion Vega (with such ringing endorsements, how could I resist?). It sounds perfect, in that it doesn't have a battery pack to deal with, is adequately bright, and is the right price.
I'll let you know what I think when it arrives, although anything will be better than the $15 light I'm using right now...
Thanks again,
Laura-Jane
I did check out the sticky spreadsheet, which was really helpful.
I've decided to go with the Light & Motion Vega (with such ringing endorsements, how could I resist?). It sounds perfect, in that it doesn't have a battery pack to deal with, is adequately bright, and is the right price.
I'll let you know what I think when it arrives, although anything will be better than the $15 light I'm using right now...
Thanks again,
Laura-Jane
12-31-06 | 07:15 PM
#8
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 2,418
Likes: 1
+1 for the Vega but am in the process of getting a flood. If I had it to do over again I would purchase the 5W Dinotte lighting that can be had for $169 without batteries and charger(both of which I already have). It runs on AA batteries and you can carry spare packs which you cannot do with the Vega.
Don't get me wrong, the Vega is a great light. But remember that it is essentially a handlebar beam with a fairly narrow beam at that and does not light up the area directly in front of your bike which bothers me more than I thought it would. There is no last chance to miss that pothold or debris you did not see. It is okay for lighted street commuting or riding in groups but may not be the best choice for your pitch black commuting if that is indeed the case. A handlebar mounted flood, the 5W Dinotte or another flood may be a better choice for you. I ride unlit country roads with a group and am getting by nicely with the Vega and the convenience that you have already mentioned. However, I will not try riding by myself until I get more light!
You might want to keep the $15 bike and use it as a flasher in conjunction with the Vega. You will need to separate them on the handlebar so that the flasher is visible and not overwhelmed by the Vega.
Don't get me wrong, the Vega is a great light. But remember that it is essentially a handlebar beam with a fairly narrow beam at that and does not light up the area directly in front of your bike which bothers me more than I thought it would. There is no last chance to miss that pothold or debris you did not see. It is okay for lighted street commuting or riding in groups but may not be the best choice for your pitch black commuting if that is indeed the case. A handlebar mounted flood, the 5W Dinotte or another flood may be a better choice for you. I ride unlit country roads with a group and am getting by nicely with the Vega and the convenience that you have already mentioned. However, I will not try riding by myself until I get more light!
You might want to keep the $15 bike and use it as a flasher in conjunction with the Vega. You will need to separate them on the handlebar so that the flasher is visible and not overwhelmed by the Vega.
12-31-06 | 08:26 PM
#9
2-Cyl, 1/2 HP @ 90 RPM
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 15,762
Likes: 5
From: NYC
Bikes: 04' Specialized Hardrock Sport, 03' Giant OCR2 (SOLD!), 04' Litespeed Firenze, 04' Giant OCR Touring, 07' Specialized Langster Comp
I wouldn't let the other reviewer scare you. I mean, if you somehow miss a pothole, it's because one mysteriously appeared in front of you. If you aim the spot in front of the light, a pothole'll have to pass under the beam in order for you to hit it.
What you can also do is mount the beam upside down. This does 3 things:
1. It puts the beam at a shallower angle so you get more of a flood than mounting it on top of the bar.
2. It increases shadows lit up by the light so you have a better idea of how high or low things are in front of you.
3. It protects the light should you crash and the bike land on the top of the bars.
If you have a $15 regular light, you can aim it directly in front of you while you aim the vega farther ahead. Or you can aim the $15 dead straight into the drivers eyes to attract attention and use the vega to see with.
What you can also do is mount the beam upside down. This does 3 things:
1. It puts the beam at a shallower angle so you get more of a flood than mounting it on top of the bar.
2. It increases shadows lit up by the light so you have a better idea of how high or low things are in front of you.
3. It protects the light should you crash and the bike land on the top of the bars.
If you have a $15 regular light, you can aim it directly in front of you while you aim the vega farther ahead. Or you can aim the $15 dead straight into the drivers eyes to attract attention and use the vega to see with.
Originally Posted by Laura-Jane
Thanks for all the input!
I did check out the sticky spreadsheet, which was really helpful.
I've decided to go with the Light & Motion Vega (with such ringing endorsements, how could I resist?). It sounds perfect, in that it doesn't have a battery pack to deal with, is adequately bright, and is the right price.
I'll let you know what I think when it arrives, although anything will be better than the $15 light I'm using right now...
Thanks again,
Laura-Jane
I did check out the sticky spreadsheet, which was really helpful.
I've decided to go with the Light & Motion Vega (with such ringing endorsements, how could I resist?). It sounds perfect, in that it doesn't have a battery pack to deal with, is adequately bright, and is the right price.
I'll let you know what I think when it arrives, although anything will be better than the $15 light I'm using right now...
Thanks again,
Laura-Jane
12-31-06 | 08:57 PM
#10
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 2,418
Likes: 1
Originally Posted by slvoid
I wouldn't let the other reviewer scare you. I mean, if you somehow miss a pothole, it's because one mysteriously appeared in front of you. If you aim the spot in front of the light, a pothole'll have to pass under the beam in order for you to hit it.
What you can also do is mount the beam upside down. This does 3 things:
1. It puts the beam at a shallower angle so you get more of a flood than mounting it on top of the bar.
2. It increases shadows lit up by the light so you have a better idea of how high or low things are in front of you.
3. It protects the light should you crash and the bike land on the top of the bars.
If you have a $15 regular light, you can aim it directly in front of you while you aim the vega farther ahead. Or you can aim the $15 dead straight into the drivers eyes to attract attention and use the vega to see with.
What you can also do is mount the beam upside down. This does 3 things:
1. It puts the beam at a shallower angle so you get more of a flood than mounting it on top of the bar.
2. It increases shadows lit up by the light so you have a better idea of how high or low things are in front of you.
3. It protects the light should you crash and the bike land on the top of the bars.
If you have a $15 regular light, you can aim it directly in front of you while you aim the vega farther ahead. Or you can aim the $15 dead straight into the drivers eyes to attract attention and use the vega to see with.
My intent is not to scare Laura-Jane unless you count describing the Vega accurately as a beam. Maybe having the ground in front of you illuminated is overrated, but I don't think so. She specified pitch black commuting. I ride on unlit country roads and do not feel the Vega is the best choice even though it is the only light I have now. I get by with it's convenience because I ride with a group of experienced riders with a lot of powerful halogens. I would not ride in unlit areas with the Vega alone. It is not enough light imho. It puts out 85 lumens. The $169 5W Dinotte puts out 120 lumens on high and has the same 2-hour run time, takes up less bar space, and you can carry spare AA battery cases. The only disadvantage that I see is the separate battery pack. I have seen both in person and wish that I had purchased the Dinotte if I had to choose one over the other. If seeing the ground is important to Laura-Jane then she would prefer the Dinotte or another similar flood over the Vega. It is that simple. She can use the smaller light as a flasher if she separates them far enough on the bars. Several riders in my group have powerful lights and the small lights work effectively as flashers for additional safety.
I don't know if it is because the Vega is new or it is a leap forward in LED, but most Vega owners tout their Vega's much higher than they deserve. It is a bar only 4W LED that puts out a focused beam. If I had to do it over again it would not be my first choice. I would want a flood on my bars if I could only have one light and a beam on my helmet.
If you purchase the Vega and it meets your needs, then great. But you now have more information to make your decision which is my only intent. The Vega is a high quality light made by a high quality company with a long history in making excellent bicycle lights! Best of luck in your selection!
12-31-06 | 09:12 PM
#11
www.bicyclelights.com
I've got the whole nine yards, dualies on the bars and the helmet plus the single helmet light . Totally satisified, quality is excellent, service first rate.
He also sell on ebay as lazeredge - https://sporting-goods.search.ebay.co...QsassZlaseredg
I've got the whole nine yards, dualies on the bars and the helmet plus the single helmet light . Totally satisified, quality is excellent, service first rate.
He also sell on ebay as lazeredge - https://sporting-goods.search.ebay.co...QsassZlaseredg
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This is Africa, 1943. War spits out its violence overhead and the sandy graveyard swallows it up. Her name is King Nine, B-25, medium bomber, Twelfth Air Force. On a hot, still morning she took off from Tunisia to bomb the southern tip of Italy. An errant piece of flak tore a hole in a wing tank and, like a wounded bird, this is where she landed, not to return on this day, or any other day.
This is Africa, 1943. War spits out its violence overhead and the sandy graveyard swallows it up. Her name is King Nine, B-25, medium bomber, Twelfth Air Force. On a hot, still morning she took off from Tunisia to bomb the southern tip of Italy. An errant piece of flak tore a hole in a wing tank and, like a wounded bird, this is where she landed, not to return on this day, or any other day.
12-31-06 | 09:47 PM
#12
2-Cyl, 1/2 HP @ 90 RPM
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 15,762
Likes: 5
From: NYC
Bikes: 04' Specialized Hardrock Sport, 03' Giant OCR2 (SOLD!), 04' Litespeed Firenze, 04' Giant OCR Touring, 07' Specialized Langster Comp
I've seen the vega beam pattern and it compares pretty well with the specialized astro halogen battery powered lamp that I have although it was 2x brighter. If it's in the city, it gets slightly washed out. But if its pitch black, it has a slight umbra of light that lets you see around and slightly in front of you.
Assuming you mount the light above the bar and it's 40 inches up, 8 degree spread, aimed 20ft ahead, the swath would be 180 inches wide. If you mount it upside down, the swath increases to 200 inches. So you get an extra foot and a half. A 2" high object would have a shadow about 2.5" longer.
Less than I thought but it'll be something. Most importantly, it'll protect the light in an accident.
Assuming you mount the light above the bar and it's 40 inches up, 8 degree spread, aimed 20ft ahead, the swath would be 180 inches wide. If you mount it upside down, the swath increases to 200 inches. So you get an extra foot and a half. A 2" high object would have a shadow about 2.5" longer.
Less than I thought but it'll be something. Most importantly, it'll protect the light in an accident.
01-01-07 | 10:23 AM
#13
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 2,418
Likes: 1
https://www.gearreview.com/2006_led_lights.php
This is a link that show actual pictures of several lights including the Vega and 5W and 3W Dinotte. I have seen all 3 lights in person and this is a fair representation imho. The Vega and 3W Dinotte are similar beams except the Dinotte can be helmet or bar mounted.
This is a link that show actual pictures of several lights including the Vega and 5W and 3W Dinotte. I have seen all 3 lights in person and this is a fair representation imho. The Vega and 3W Dinotte are similar beams except the Dinotte can be helmet or bar mounted.
01-01-07 | 02:20 PM
#14
Year-round cyclist
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 3,023
Likes: 3
From: Montréal (Québec)
For anyone riding in pitch dark environments, I think it's advisable to have a second headlight "just in case". Something small like the Planet Bike Beamer 5 (about 15 $ at MEC) is wonderful to be seen (especially in flashing mode), and can help you get home if your main batteries die.
I have similar concerns for my taillight, only more so because a taillight may have failed for a few hours before it's noticed.
I have similar concerns for my taillight, only more so because a taillight may have failed for a few hours before it's noticed.
01-01-07 | 02:44 PM
#15
Originally Posted by Michel Gagnon
For anyone riding in pitch dark environments, I think it's advisable to have a second headlight "just in case". Something small like the Planet Bike Beamer 5 (about 15 $ at MEC) is wonderful to be seen (especially in flashing mode), and can help you get home if your main batteries die.
I have similar concerns for my taillight, only more so because a taillight may have failed for a few hours before it's noticed.
I have similar concerns for my taillight, only more so because a taillight may have failed for a few hours before it's noticed.
As for taillights, I could bur out half of em and still be lite like a runway.
__________________
This is Africa, 1943. War spits out its violence overhead and the sandy graveyard swallows it up. Her name is King Nine, B-25, medium bomber, Twelfth Air Force. On a hot, still morning she took off from Tunisia to bomb the southern tip of Italy. An errant piece of flak tore a hole in a wing tank and, like a wounded bird, this is where she landed, not to return on this day, or any other day.
This is Africa, 1943. War spits out its violence overhead and the sandy graveyard swallows it up. Her name is King Nine, B-25, medium bomber, Twelfth Air Force. On a hot, still morning she took off from Tunisia to bomb the southern tip of Italy. An errant piece of flak tore a hole in a wing tank and, like a wounded bird, this is where she landed, not to return on this day, or any other day.
01-01-07 | 03:04 PM
#16
Señior Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 13,748
Likes: 10
From: Michigan
Bikes: Windsor Fens, Giant Seek 0 (2014, Alfine 8 + discs)
For $200 at batteryspace.com you can get a ready-to-go HID setup. I ride with this light and it's been great for me for 2 years now. There are brighter HIDs but this is brighter than any reasonable halogen setup.
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Work: the 8 hours that separates bike rides.
Work: the 8 hours that separates bike rides.
01-01-07 | 11:39 PM
#17
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 5,603
Likes: 0
From: northern California
Bikes: Bruce Gordon BLT, Cannondale parts bike, Ecodyne recumbent trike, Counterpoint Opus 2, miyata 1000
For ~$180.00 you can get a NightSun Team Issue. The one I have has lasted eighteen (18) years and is easy to upgrade yourself. www.night-sun.com
01-02-07 | 06:40 AM
#18
Senior Member
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 1,766
Likes: 0
From: North of the 49th Parallel (GPS grid soon)
Bikes: MTB Peugoet Canyon (forgot the model), Nikishi? roadbike, MTB custom build,
Laura,
Hey a fellow Canuck!
Welcome welcome to Bike Forums. Being the newbie here you're treating everyone to Wendys. Hehe.. if you get that commercial joke.
Anyways, I've been using the NiteHawk AL-X from MEC for a while. It's a 1W spot beam that's better to be combined with another bar mounted unit. I have mine on the helmet but the kit comes with both bar/helmet mount.
I have a thread a couple weeks ago in the same price range as what you're looking for.
https://www.bikeforums.net/commuting/253669-anyone-own-cygolite-dual-cross-300-a.html
There is one model down that is the Dual Cross 200 which is the same unit but only difference from the 200/300/Li-ion versions is that 200 needs overnight charging. 300 charges in approx. 4 hours. The Li-ion I think charges in 2 hours and also is the lightest if weight in a consideration but you pay premium for the low weight.
I've read many reviews on the unit and have gotten glowing feedback on the unit. It's priced just right for lots of light at a low price. One thing about going with a halogen/HID systems over LED is that the bulb replacement is expensive. Especially the HID bulb which can bend you over at about $100-150 a bulb replacement and I'm going to assume USD on that. Halogen bulbs will cost you about $10-15 CDN if I recall right. I recently checked out some at Office Depot. LED's won't burn out on you tho they are a few watts less then halogen in brightness but in my experience when my bulb burned out it was the LED's that took me home safely and when I dropped my light LED's are almost unbreakable.
You may also want to look into the Cateye EL-530 which just came out. It's 1W LED that uses 4xAA. You could get the previous two models 520/500 for cheaper and the claim by Cateye is that the 530 is 50% brighter then the 500 model. I've seen it for $40 USD on Ebay under the seller GearGurl who is willing mark the item as gift and lower the declare value so you don't get dinged with customs and duty charges. $10 USD is her shipping cost.
One advantage of a AA system over a custom battery is if you're out in the middle of the night coming home and your batteries are low and you're about to hit a dark stretch of road you can always go to a convience store and buy a pack of 4xAA then and have peace of mind you'll have full brightness to go home in confidance.
For your price range I would probably go with a Dual Cross 200 ($120 USD Ebay and I've seen it around that price online https://www.beyondbikes.com Check for the Cygolite 200 ) and get the NiteHawk AL-X for $65ish at MEC. The DualCross will run for approx. 4hours and reviews have stated it will run to around spec. . Having both the Dual Cross and a AL-X you'll have the best of both worlds at your price range and never be stuck up a creek without a paddle. The AL-X uses 4xAA with 9hr runtime on high (I've gotten 5hrs so far and still going on my fresh set of alkaline batteries I'm pretty confident it will go at least 8 hours). So if for any reason you forget to charge the main light and it drains out you still have your headlight to cover you. The headlight throws quite a bit in front if you're checking trees and such for bogiemen.
Hope that helps.
Zero_Enigma
*edit*
Reviews for Dual Cross 300 (200 and Li-ion units are all the same it's just the battery charge time that is different) https://www.mtbr.com/reviews/Lights/product_127326.shtml
Ebay EL-530 $40 USD https://cgi.ebay.com/CatEye-HL-EL530-...QQcmdZViewItem
Ebay EL-530 + LD1000 combo deal $56 USD https://cgi.ebay.com/CatEye-HL-EL530-...QQcmdZViewItem
Dual Cross 300 review https://www.obairlann.net/~reaper/gadgets/headlight/
Hey a fellow Canuck!
Welcome welcome to Bike Forums. Being the newbie here you're treating everyone to Wendys. Hehe.. if you get that commercial joke. Anyways, I've been using the NiteHawk AL-X from MEC for a while. It's a 1W spot beam that's better to be combined with another bar mounted unit. I have mine on the helmet but the kit comes with both bar/helmet mount.
I have a thread a couple weeks ago in the same price range as what you're looking for.
https://www.bikeforums.net/commuting/253669-anyone-own-cygolite-dual-cross-300-a.html
There is one model down that is the Dual Cross 200 which is the same unit but only difference from the 200/300/Li-ion versions is that 200 needs overnight charging. 300 charges in approx. 4 hours. The Li-ion I think charges in 2 hours and also is the lightest if weight in a consideration but you pay premium for the low weight.
I've read many reviews on the unit and have gotten glowing feedback on the unit. It's priced just right for lots of light at a low price. One thing about going with a halogen/HID systems over LED is that the bulb replacement is expensive. Especially the HID bulb which can bend you over at about $100-150 a bulb replacement and I'm going to assume USD on that. Halogen bulbs will cost you about $10-15 CDN if I recall right. I recently checked out some at Office Depot. LED's won't burn out on you tho they are a few watts less then halogen in brightness but in my experience when my bulb burned out it was the LED's that took me home safely and when I dropped my light LED's are almost unbreakable.
You may also want to look into the Cateye EL-530 which just came out. It's 1W LED that uses 4xAA. You could get the previous two models 520/500 for cheaper and the claim by Cateye is that the 530 is 50% brighter then the 500 model. I've seen it for $40 USD on Ebay under the seller GearGurl who is willing mark the item as gift and lower the declare value so you don't get dinged with customs and duty charges. $10 USD is her shipping cost.
One advantage of a AA system over a custom battery is if you're out in the middle of the night coming home and your batteries are low and you're about to hit a dark stretch of road you can always go to a convience store and buy a pack of 4xAA then and have peace of mind you'll have full brightness to go home in confidance.
For your price range I would probably go with a Dual Cross 200 ($120 USD Ebay and I've seen it around that price online https://www.beyondbikes.com Check for the Cygolite 200 ) and get the NiteHawk AL-X for $65ish at MEC. The DualCross will run for approx. 4hours and reviews have stated it will run to around spec. . Having both the Dual Cross and a AL-X you'll have the best of both worlds at your price range and never be stuck up a creek without a paddle. The AL-X uses 4xAA with 9hr runtime on high (I've gotten 5hrs so far and still going on my fresh set of alkaline batteries I'm pretty confident it will go at least 8 hours). So if for any reason you forget to charge the main light and it drains out you still have your headlight to cover you. The headlight throws quite a bit in front if you're checking trees and such for bogiemen.
Hope that helps.
Zero_Enigma
*edit*
Reviews for Dual Cross 300 (200 and Li-ion units are all the same it's just the battery charge time that is different) https://www.mtbr.com/reviews/Lights/product_127326.shtml
Ebay EL-530 $40 USD https://cgi.ebay.com/CatEye-HL-EL530-...QQcmdZViewItem
Ebay EL-530 + LD1000 combo deal $56 USD https://cgi.ebay.com/CatEye-HL-EL530-...QQcmdZViewItem
Dual Cross 300 review https://www.obairlann.net/~reaper/gadgets/headlight/
Last edited by Zero_Enigma; 01-02-07 at 06:54 AM.
01-02-07 | 06:59 AM
#19
Infamous Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 24,360
Likes: 7
From: Ohio
Bikes: Surly Big Dummy, Fuji World, 80ish Bianchi
Originally Posted by dekindy
My intent is not to scare Laura-Jane unless you count describing the Vega accurately as a beam. Maybe having the ground in front of you illuminated is overrated, but I don't think so. She specified pitch black commuting. I ride on unlit country roads and do not feel the Vega is the best choice even though it is the only light I have now.
__________________
"Let us hope our weapons are never needed --but do not forget what the common people knew when they demanded the Bill of Rights: An armed citizenry is the first defense, the best defense, and the final defense against tyranny. If guns are outlawed, only the government will have guns. Only the police, the secret police, the military, the hired servants of our rulers. Only the government -- and a few outlaws. I intend to be among the outlaws" - Edward Abbey
"Let us hope our weapons are never needed --but do not forget what the common people knew when they demanded the Bill of Rights: An armed citizenry is the first defense, the best defense, and the final defense against tyranny. If guns are outlawed, only the government will have guns. Only the police, the secret police, the military, the hired servants of our rulers. Only the government -- and a few outlaws. I intend to be among the outlaws" - Edward Abbey
01-02-07 | 07:38 AM
#20
Solo Rider, always DFL
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 2,004
Likes: 0
From: Beacon, NY
Bikes: Cannondale T800, Schwinn Voyageur
I have a Dual Cross 300, and a L&M ARC (which is out of the price range you mentioned, but fantastic.)
The Dual Cross 300 might actually be better in full dark, it can get washed out in completely streetlit areas for me, but has a nice spread beam pattern and charges quickly, also has a battery level indicator.
The one caveat is that you need to use one of the velcro strips for the cable to secure the lever that holds the bracket in place... it just does not want to stay closed otherwise (at least for me.)
The Dual Cross 300 might actually be better in full dark, it can get washed out in completely streetlit areas for me, but has a nice spread beam pattern and charges quickly, also has a battery level indicator.
The one caveat is that you need to use one of the velcro strips for the cable to secure the lever that holds the bracket in place... it just does not want to stay closed otherwise (at least for me.)
01-02-07 | 11:43 AM
#21
Senior Member
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 1,766
Likes: 0
From: North of the 49th Parallel (GPS grid soon)
Bikes: MTB Peugoet Canyon (forgot the model), Nikishi? roadbike, MTB custom build,
Originally Posted by superslomo
I have a Dual Cross 300, and a L&M ARC (which is out of the price range you mentioned, but fantastic.)
The Dual Cross 300 might actually be better in full dark, it can get washed out in completely streetlit areas for me, but has a nice spread beam pattern and charges quickly, also has a battery level indicator.
The one caveat is that you need to use one of the velcro strips for the cable to secure the lever that holds the bracket in place... it just does not want to stay closed otherwise (at least for me.)
The Dual Cross 300 might actually be better in full dark, it can get washed out in completely streetlit areas for me, but has a nice spread beam pattern and charges quickly, also has a battery level indicator.
The one caveat is that you need to use one of the velcro strips for the cable to secure the lever that holds the bracket in place... it just does not want to stay closed otherwise (at least for me.)
SHe cuold get an uber cheap $10 Can.Tire cellphone pouch and put the batter in there. That way it's easy for her all thetime to move around.
Zero_Enigma
01-02-07 | 11:55 AM
#22
No one carries the DogBoy
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 2,320
Likes: 2
From: Upper Midwest USA
Bikes: Roubaix Expert Di2, Jamis Renegade, Surly Disc Trucker, Cervelo P2, CoMotion Tandem
I have tried a few options. Here is my experience:
Headlights:
NR Digital Evolution: provides adequate light but breaks quickly...something in the battery sensor. Anyway, I don't recommend it.
Cygolite z-force: HID light that takes a lickin and keeps on ticking. Run time is around 3 hours and is plenty bright for pitch black country riding. Unfortunately, its no longer produced. I would sell it cheap but I am keeping it for a backup, backup light.
Dinotte: 5 watt. Not as bright as the HID, but plenty bright. I have some 10,000mAh D cells that I'm using instead of the AAs. I run them all week and charge them over the weekend. The status indicator has yet to turn red. Total run time for the week is ~5 hours.
Dinotte: 3 watt. This is a spot beam and is quite bright. I run this as a helmet light. I get ~2 hours of runtime in temps near 0 C on high. This is not sufficient for country roads at speeds higher than about 12 mph.
My current setup: I'm using the two Dinottes and it works great. No complaints.
Taillights:
NR taillight: bright, out of the box easy, not as pricy as the DiNotte. Works well and I'm well seen. I add to it a few LD-500s, plus the 3 watt Dinotte has 2 red LEDs on the back.
Happy shopping.
Headlights:
NR Digital Evolution: provides adequate light but breaks quickly...something in the battery sensor. Anyway, I don't recommend it.
Cygolite z-force: HID light that takes a lickin and keeps on ticking. Run time is around 3 hours and is plenty bright for pitch black country riding. Unfortunately, its no longer produced. I would sell it cheap but I am keeping it for a backup, backup light.
Dinotte: 5 watt. Not as bright as the HID, but plenty bright. I have some 10,000mAh D cells that I'm using instead of the AAs. I run them all week and charge them over the weekend. The status indicator has yet to turn red. Total run time for the week is ~5 hours.
Dinotte: 3 watt. This is a spot beam and is quite bright. I run this as a helmet light. I get ~2 hours of runtime in temps near 0 C on high. This is not sufficient for country roads at speeds higher than about 12 mph.
My current setup: I'm using the two Dinottes and it works great. No complaints.
Taillights:
NR taillight: bright, out of the box easy, not as pricy as the DiNotte. Works well and I'm well seen. I add to it a few LD-500s, plus the 3 watt Dinotte has 2 red LEDs on the back.
Happy shopping.
01-02-07 | 12:00 PM
#23
Originally Posted by ken cummings
For ~$180.00 you can get a NightSun Team Issue. The one I have has lasted eighteen (18) years and is easy to upgrade yourself. www.night-sun.com
30 Watts on high beam has been totally sufficient, but I'm starting to get jealous of all the HIDs out there.
01-19-07 | 10:29 PM
#24
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
From: Victoria, BC
My Light and Motion Vega has finally arrived!
I commuted with my new light today, and it was great! Even on a bad day, I usually ride my bike with at least a half-smile, but I could feel myself grinning the whole way today; I even ventured a few "Morning!"s to the bikers coming in the other direction on the path.
Both my morning and evening commutes have been in the pitch black for quite some time now, and I'd forgotten what it was like to be able to see ahead of me. Without realizing it, I had been going at a snail's pace due to lack of light (okay, and a little laziness), but today I made it home in record time, because I wasn't afraid of what was ahead.
I knew I would be happy with whatever I bought, because anything would be better than the cheap light I had been using (although, at least I haven't been trying to balance a bag of groceries in one hand while HOLDING a flashlight in the other, which I saw some poor biker doing the other day). Right now I'm still in the honeymoon period with it, and I'm sure after a while I'll have a few minor complaints--and will want something bigger and brighter (yes, "the American way" gets us Canadians, too..). For now, the system is super simple and bright enough for me, so I'm happy.
Thanks again for all of your help!
Happy biking,
Laura-Jane
I commuted with my new light today, and it was great! Even on a bad day, I usually ride my bike with at least a half-smile, but I could feel myself grinning the whole way today; I even ventured a few "Morning!"s to the bikers coming in the other direction on the path.
Both my morning and evening commutes have been in the pitch black for quite some time now, and I'd forgotten what it was like to be able to see ahead of me. Without realizing it, I had been going at a snail's pace due to lack of light (okay, and a little laziness), but today I made it home in record time, because I wasn't afraid of what was ahead.
I knew I would be happy with whatever I bought, because anything would be better than the cheap light I had been using (although, at least I haven't been trying to balance a bag of groceries in one hand while HOLDING a flashlight in the other, which I saw some poor biker doing the other day). Right now I'm still in the honeymoon period with it, and I'm sure after a while I'll have a few minor complaints--and will want something bigger and brighter (yes, "the American way" gets us Canadians, too..). For now, the system is super simple and bright enough for me, so I'm happy.
Thanks again for all of your help!
Happy biking,
Laura-Jane
Last edited by Laura-Jane; 01-19-07 at 10:46 PM.
01-19-07 | 11:43 PM
#25
2-Cyl, 1/2 HP @ 90 RPM
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 15,762
Likes: 5
From: NYC
Bikes: 04' Specialized Hardrock Sport, 03' Giant OCR2 (SOLD!), 04' Litespeed Firenze, 04' Giant OCR Touring, 07' Specialized Langster Comp
Congratulations. But don't be like us. Stick with what you have, use it often, be happy with it, and leave it at that. Otherwise you'll be spending like, a thousand bucks on lights and whatnot.