Much to our delight bike lights have recently experienced an exponential boom in technological advancements and at the same time are more affordable than ever. Much in the same way that space/dollar in hard drives had plummeted over the years, finally the same is becoming true for luminosity/dollar in our precious bicycle lights. Along with increased brightness and lower costs, we also have more options in power sources, mounting, and aesthetics.
Dynamo Lighting -
The ultimate solution if you want to stop fussing with batteries and chargers altogether. Your best friend in the dimmest dawns, the duskiest dusks, the darkest nights, and the longest rides. Or for that matter, any given day commuting in the dim Northwest winters. The sense of security that comes from the reliability of the dynamo, the power of the lights available, and the knowledge that your lights are always on at full capacity, far outweighs the initial costs. On top of it all, the initial costs are quite reasonable these days.
We’re currently stocking Shimano 700c disc compatible dynamo hubs, built to sturdy double-walled Redline rims, for a steal at $119.99!
For light options we like the Lumotec IQ ($114) for the do-everything, ride all night, randonneur-approved headlight, and the Planet Bike Blaze ($69.99) for an around town, more commuter oriented option. The Lumotec has additional wiring for a fender mounted rear light such as the Spanninga Pixeo ($16.99) . I can’t evangelize enough about the convenience, pure functionality, and peace of mind that a well installed Dynamo system can bring to you and your commuter or long distance rig.
USB charging -
We’ve come along since the dreaded Flea. I mention USB to customers and it often invokes bad memories of clumsy and inconvenient early attempts. We’ve come along way. Interfaces are much improved, and with iPhone chargers all over the house, and computers in virtually every type of work environment these days, a charge is never far away.
Here are a couple of our new favs:
The Knog Blinder ($79.99) is a fantastic headlight kit. Comes with two sizes of handlebar mount straps and a helmet mount. This waterproof, dual led, 200 peak lumen USB light is champ in a stylish and functional compact design. Not only will you be highly visible, this is enough light to get you down the darkest of alleys, trails, and back roads. Forest Park night ride tested and approved.
The new Serfas USB combo pack ($39.99) comes with a front and rear light, up to 8 hours burn time, and plenty of “be-seen” visiblity. This is one of the best deals out there right now!
We’ve got all these and much more in stock so come on down, chat us up, and get lit!
