I had a Planet Bike Blaze 2 Watts but it was stolen from my bike while it was chained to a rack in mall garage (yeah, blame me but I didn't know people stole those). Anyway I was already disappointed with that light because I ride a lot at night and it is not strong enough for darker roads.

At first, I was planning on assembling a custom front light set-up buying from DX:

UltraFire WF-501B XM-LT6 5-Mode 510-Lumen Memory White LED Flashlight with Strap (1*18650) $17.99
Universal Bicycle Mount $1.80
TrustFire Protected 18650 3.7V True 2400mAh Rechargeable Lithium Batteries (2-Pack) $9.99
UltraFire 3.6/3.7V Battery Charger PLOP $10.90
*** Total = $40.69 ***

But then I was worried because most of those items are Chinese and unfortunately it is still difficult to tell good products from bad ones when talking about China (I leave batteries charging while I'm asleep and when I'm away from home so it is a concern).

Now I see that REI is selling NiteRider MiNewt 250 Cordless Bike Light for $94.93 (regular price everywhere else: $129.00).

https://www.rei.com/product/807417/ni...ess-bike-light

And, I might get an extra 10% rebate because I'm a REI member, though I'm not sure since it is a promotion.

Now I have three options:

1. Get the "Chinese set-up" for $40.
2. Buy a NiteRider MiNewt 250 for $95 (or maybe $85).
3. Get another set-up using US or European components for probably $90.

I would appreciate any input. What should I do?

Thanks!

Great flash light -not so good bike light - and really no run time. hey but its bright.....
High quality light with excellent beam - true "bike light" but not as bright.....
Checkout the "bst light" forum -scroll to end comments

Best thing I can tell you is that flashlights are great -but "real flood" lights work best for most people. This means -buy a bike light -and and a "throw light" later on.....

I'm using both NR 250 and B&W Lumotec IQ Fly and write a preview with some pictures and video here, didn't write with English but i believe pictures inside will help narrowing your choice.

Mardmakarm, NR 250 seems to be a very good light according to your photos. I was wondering: does it really take 4.5 hours to charge it fully? Does it charge faster if plugged directly to an electrical outlet? Also, the specs for that light states that it lasts only 2.5 hours, is that right?

Thanks!

It took about 5-6 hrs for fully charge and plugging directly to an electrical wan't make faster charged.

Highest run time on the box is 4.30 hrs but i think it lasts about 3-3.30 hrs

The NR 250 is an excellent light. I can ride ~20mph without over-driving the light. Very well made.

I'm gunning for the new MiNewt 600. It's probably overkill, but I think I might finally take the plunge on this one.