Comparing Light Performance
LEDs: Energy efficiency and durability make LEDs the predominant light source used in bike lights. They come in a wide range of brightness levels.
Lumens: A lumen is a unit of measurement that quantifies the amount of light falling on the object you want illuminated. Measured at a uniform distance, a lumen describes the light intensity of each lighting unit. Most light manufacturers provide a lumen rating
Beam pattern: If you commute on streets with streetlights, you may want to choose a front light with a narrow-focus beam. On darker roads or trails, you’ll want to go with a wide-focus beam for better peripheral vision. Beam patterns can be difficult for shoppers to compare; check online product descriptions or ask a sales specialist for help.
As a general rule, higher price equals higher light output.
Wide light beam with high performance is necessary when riding trail or remote place at night
Rechargeable Lighting Systems
Rechargeable systems feature lithium ion batteries. They can be charged hundreds of times, making them an inexpensive and environmentally sound alternative to disposable batteries.
Unlike alkalines that dim slowly over battery life, most rechargeables deliver consistent light until their power is exhausted. Therefore, most rechargeable lights have a “fuel gauge” or low-battery warning. All rechargeables have a power light to indicate that power is available.
Lithium ion batteries offer excellent power for their weight, and they are characterized by their long run times. They are easy to keep charged because they suffer no “memory” effects from being fully discharged.
Bontrager iON 450R rechargeable light
Maintaining Your Battery System
Most rechargeable batteries are capable of more than 500 charge/discharge cycles. Self-contained units can be charged via a power cord or USB charger.
When charging batteries, be sure you fully charge them, especially before storage, but do not overcharge them. Most systems come with smart chargers that automatically stop when the batteries are fully charged to prevent overcharging. Because inactive batteries lose their charge over time, plug in and charge your system before every use.