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Hey everyone. Wanted some advice. I'm getting a lighting system for some nighttime trail riding. I'll typically be with friends, but want a light that can hold it's own. Another thing: $150 - $175 is my limit. I started looking into Niterider (NR) and almost bought the NR Evolution (approx. $130). However, a friend of mine (That's you Floyd if you're reading this) recommended I look into Jet Lites. I am looking for a helmet mounted system and found the Jet Lite i6 Helmet System (15 watts - approx. $165) extremely appealing. I also noticed that where Jet Lites get nothing but stellar reviews on various mtb sites, NR reviews are typically mixed.

If anyone has any opinions or advice about Jet Lite lighting systems, I'd really appreciate it. Please check out at Jetlites.com if you want more information on them.

Thanks for your help.

xcdude

Check this out:

https://www.mtbr.com/spotlight/lightshootout/

MudPie

I bought Jet Starfire Dual (I think that's the name, $250) last year about this time. It's a halogen, two beam system (12 & 20W), NiMH battery, with 5 way switch and handlebar mounted. Last year, I did night rides about twice a week, lasting about 2 hours each. I just started night rides last week.

In a nut shell, the Jet Lights are well designed and perform well. The light seems to be whiter than the halogen lights of my ride buds. I really like the 5 way switch: 6W, 9W, 12W, 20W and 32W of power. The battery run time is more than adequate for me.

I researched other brands and rider reviews all rated Jet fairly high. I believe my system was a mtbr.com "recommended" item. I recommend Jet to those looking for halogen (not HID). The next step up would be an HID light system, which I don't think Jet sells (yet). Regardless, these halogens are plenty bright and the system is well designed.

I may get a helmet mounted system this year. Helmet and handlebar mounted lights have their own pros and cons.

Bottom line - give Jet a serious consideration.

MudPie

By the way, last year, there weren't too many outlets selling Jets. I couldn't find a local dealer. I was only able to find a few online dealers. You can buy them directly from Jet. I bought mine at www.universalcycles.com in Portland, OR. I believe it was a little cheaper than buying direct, AND Oregon doesn't charge a sales tax.

Also, when I had questions, they were very responsive to my queries.

khuon

I also have the StarFire dual-beam setup with the intelligent switch. The lights are very bright for halogens and have been pretty durable. I've had these for more than 5 years and they're still going strong. I called to ask about ordering a new mounting bracket a couple of years ago and JetLites gave me a sweet deal on an upgraded battery and switch which cost me less than $30 (including S&H). Their customer support is excellent and their products are very reliable. However, for a helmet light, I'd recommend a HID unit. I like the idea of having a combination of HID and halogen because HIDs have a bit of a warmup time while halogens are near-instantaneous. OTOH, HIDs typically are brighter and have a longer runtime.

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Thank you everyone for your responses. From what I'm hearing, it seems to me that Jet Lites offers a very good product. I'll do a little more research and hopefully hear from a few more people here before I buy. I'll post what I bought when I finally do decide.

Thanks again for your help.