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Trek Commuter Pro RT/Flare RT Light Set

At road.cc every product is thoroughly tested for as long as it takes to get a proper insight into how well it works. Our reviewers are experienced cyclists that we trust to be objective. While we strive to ensure that opinions expressed are backed up by facts, reviews are by their nature an informed opinion, not a definitive verdict. We don't intentionally try to break anything (except locks) but we do try to look for weak points in any design. The overall score is not just an average of the other scores: it reflects both a product's function and value – with value determined by how a product compares with items of similar spec, quality, and price.

Good scores are more common than bad, because fortunately good products are more common than bad.

• Exceptional
• Not so good

The Trek Commuter Pro RT Flare/RT Light Set is a pairing of two of Trek's best lights. They're very well constructed and the paired connectivity saves faffing, but while the rear is excellent, and the front's 'Kindbeam' anti-dazzle cut-off means it won't blind oncoming traffic, it's let down by a lack of modes, only average battery life, and a tricky-to-press button.

For more options, front and rear, check out our guide to the best bike lights .

The Commuter Pro RT front light has a high quality feel to it, with a very nicely finished aluminium housing and recessed front lens. The cube-shaped rear Flare RT (which comes under Trek's sister brand, Bontrager) is extremely light (I weighed it separately at just 40g, including the mount) and made of plastic but with a rubberised edge.

The Commuter Pro RT is easy to operate: a single press shows the battery level, while a double press turns both it and the rear on, using ANT+/Bluetooth connectivity. Continually pressing the button will cycle through the front light's three modes: 500 lumens, 1,000 lumens, and flashing. (The rear stays in whichever mode you've gone for.) A long press switches off both front and rear. Nifty.

When both front and rear are turned on and connected, the front shows two strips of five green LEDs, the one on the left showing the battery level of the front, and the one on the right showing the level of the rear. (See pic further down the review.)

Both front and rear remember the last mode they were in, which is handy.

A 15-second press on the Commuter Pro RT button puts it into 'pairing mode' to connect to the rear, with the same method used to break the connection in order to operate them separately.

There are a few more advanced features as well. The front light can also power up other devices, such as a phone, with the light off. Just press the power button and hold for eight seconds, then you can use the light as a powerbank via a USB-C cable.

You can also set the front light to miss out the flashing mode in its sequence of three, so you can just alternate between 500 and 1,000 lumens.

Out on the roads, lanes and cyclepaths of my daily commute, I found the beam and brightness of both front and rear worked really well. I tended to use the 500-lumen mode up front the majority of the time, switching it to flashing for road sections, and only needed the full 1,000-lumen output for a few pitch-black leafy sections to illuminate the sides of paths.

The Kindbeam design of the front lens is really obvious to see, with a cut-off line drawn across the top of the beam. I had no complaints from oncoming cyclists on the busy Bath-Bristol cyclepath, who are pretty vocal if a light is blinding them, so I'm sure it works fine. The sides of the Commuter Pro RT light up orange for extra visibility at roundabouts and junctions.

Usability-wise, I had a couple of issues: the on-off switch on the front light is recessed flush into the main unit, making it quite difficult to feel for in winter gloves. I usually had to try three or four times to successfully change modes, so quite often just dipped a finger across the front of the light if I couldn't dip the beam in time, which kind of defeated the point a little.

Also, it sits fairly far back on its mount, and because of the way the light spreads out from the bottom of the lens, I found it had an extremely bright glare on my centrally mounted Wahoo screen; it's not something I've experienced with other lights I have, which sit further forward on their mounts. I found I had to mount my computer on the other side of the bar to avoid the glare.

Trek does sell a separate mounting and stem system (Blendr) which can hold the Commuter Pro RT underneath a centrally mounted computer, which would avoid this issue, but you'd need a Blendr stem (£59.99-£249.99) and separate mount (£9.99-£29.99) for that.

The clamp for the front light is very easy to attach, with no tools needed to fit or remove it; it's just a hand-screwed barrel, quick to adjust and secure. It will only work with round handlebars, though.

The rear Flare RT has a simple rubber strap/hook affair that works well, and can also cope with aero or D-shaped seatposts as it has a couple of 'ladder rungs' for adjustability.

The front is IPX4 rated, meaning it can take very heavy rain, and splashes from any direction. The rear is rated even higher, IPX7, meaning it can be completely submerged for up to 30 minutes.

The rubber bungs protecting the USB ports are a nice tight fit, and I had no issues with water ingress, even when washing the bike with the lights in place.

Battery life & charging

Unfortunately, the front is a little let down by average battery life. I would generally use a mix of all three modes on my 40-minute each way commute, and by the third day it would need a recharge. Given its decently sized 4800mAh battery, I expected it to last longer. I think if it had a few lower powered modes, such as 200 or 300 lumens, you would be able to get a few extra days out of it. I have other lights with considerably less battery capacity but several more modes, and they can last all week.

The Flare RT, on the other hand, would easily last all week, including four-hour weekend rides.

In terms of recharging, I found the front took just under four hours, and the rear about an hour and a half, pretty much in line with Trek's specification.

One quirk that the lights have is the mix of charging cable standards on the set: the front has an up-to-date USB-C socket...

...but the Flare RT is still using the old micro-USB standard.

Luckily the set comes with a small cable of each standard included, but this means more faff or hunting around, especially if you have to charge them at work.

At £189.99 the light set is slightly on the expensive side, compared with buying a front and rear separately.

Dave raved about the feature-packed Ravemen 1200 , for example, giving it 9/10 and praising its beam pattern, solid construction and ability to charge other devices. Available at £99.99, this could be paired with something like the Ravemen TR500 rear , which also scored well , and is one of the most powerful rear lights we've ever tested. Together, those would come in at £165.

Or you could pair the rear with the Moon Rigel Pro , at £64.99. It also has anti-dazzle features, and a 1,000-lumen and 350-lumen output, and only weighs 123g. It includes some clever tech to adjust the brightness of each mode as well.

Or, at £110, the highly rated Exposure Sirius Mk10 Daybright  that we reviewed last January sports a 900-lumen max mode, but can also run up to 36 hours via tweaking of its outputs. It weighs 85g and can also charge other devices, like the Trek.

This is a high-quality and well-made set of lights with useful connectivity. However, the front has only average battery life, along with a tricky-to-access button and a mounting position that means it reflects off bike computers. On top of that there's the odd mix of USB cables for charging, and the savings that you can make by buying separate but equally powerful lights elsewhere make it hard to fully recommend.

High-quality set of lights with neat connectivity, but usability issues with the front and average battery life

road.cc test report

Make and model: Trek Commuter Pro RT Flare RT Light Set

Size tested: One Size

Tell us what the light set is for and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?

It's a ready-to-go pairing of two of Trek's best lights. Quality construction and "kindbeam" anti-dazzle cut-off means the front won't blind oncoming traffic, and paired connectivity saves faffing. However, the front is let down by a lack of modes and average run-times.

Trek says: "A ready-for-anything light set that pairs Daytime Running Light visibility with the bright commuter Pro RT front light. Kindbeam keeps more light on the path ahead of you while avoiding oncoming riders' eyes, for a bright light that won't blind oncoming riders. It's equipped with a visible fuel gauge, wireless connection to the rear light and charge-back that allows you to use the light as a battery bank to charge gadgets. All buttoned up with a Flare RT for the best light package for any ride."

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the light set?

Front lens includes Kindbeam cut off, and orange side visibility

Battery capacity

Front: 4800mAh 17.28Wh

Rear: 420mAh 1.6Wh

Rechargeable, with a charge time of charge time 4 hours/2 hours

Dimensions 117.4 L x 31.2 W x 40.3 H (mm)

IPX4 - (meaning Splash proof with water from any direction)

ANT+ / Bluetooth connectivity (turning on the front light, automatically switches on the rear light as well)

Front Commuter Pro RT lumens and runtimes:

High beam 1000 lumens

Low beam 500 lumens

Day Flash 300 lumens

Rear Flare RT lumens and runtimes:

Day Flash 90 lumens 6 hours

All Day Flash 45 lumens 12 hours

Night Flash 5 lumens 15 hours

Day Steady 25 lumens 4.5 hours

Night Steady 5 lumens 13.5 hours

The front Commuter Pro RT is in a very nicely finished aluminium housing, with the front lens recessed. There is a high quality feel to it. The cube-shaped rear Flare RT is extremely light (I weighed it separately at just 40g, including the bracket), made of plastic, but with a rubberised edge.

The Commuter Pro RT is easy to operate: a single press shows the battery level; a double press turns it on, and will automatically turn on the rear as well. A long press turns it off.

If not using the connectivity mode, the rear can be turned on by a single press of the button and a long press to turn it off, or a quick press to switch modes.

The front light can also power up other devices, such as a phone, so you can use it as a power bank via a USB-C cable. You can also set it to "skip out" flashing mode in the sequence of the three available modes.

But I had a couple of issues with the front light: the on-off switch is recessed flush into the main unit, making it quite difficult to feel for in winter gloves. I usually had to try three or four times to successfully change modes, so quite often just dipped a finger across the front of the light if I couldn't dip the beam in time, which kind of defeated the point a little.

The Flare RT has a simple rubber strap/hook affair that works well, and can also cope with aero or D-shaped seatposts as it has a couple of 'ladder rungs' for adjustability.

The front is rated IPX4, meaning it can take very heavy rain and splashes from any direction. The rear Flare RT is IPX7, meaning it can be completely submerged for up to 30 minutes.

The front has an average battery life; I would generally use a mix of all three modes on my 40-minute commute, and by the third day it would need a recharge.

The front took just under 4 hours to recharge, and the rear about 1.5 hours.

One quirk the lights have is a mix of charging cable standards: the front has a USB-C socket, but the rear is still using the old micro-USB standard.

Out on the roads, lanes and cyclepaths of my daily commute, I found the beam and brightness of both front and rear worked really well. But usability-wise, I had a couple of issues with the front light, mentioned above.

Both front and rear are well made, and will stand up to knocks or drops.

I think the Commuter Pro RT is pretty average on weight, compared with other aluminium-bodied lights of a similar battery capacity and lumen output.

The Flare RT is exceptionally light for the performance it offers.

At £189.99 this is on the expensive side, compared with buying a front and rear separately.

Tell us how the lights performed overall when used for their designed purpose

For commuting I felt the Commuter RT Pro/Flare RT pairing worked well, making it easy to get on and ride with their connectivity.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the lights

Quality construction, good mounts, Kindbeam avoids dazzling oncoming traffic, front and rear connectivity works well.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the lights

Average battery life, on-off button hard to press with winter gloves, mounting position reflects off cycling computers. Two different standards of cable needed for recharging.

How does the price compare to that of similar products in the market, including ones recently tested on road.cc?

At a fairly hefty £189 it's up against some stiff competition when compared to buying a front and rear separately.

Dave raved about the feature-packed Ravemen 1200, for example, giving it full marks, and praising its beam pattern, solid construction and ability to charge other devices. Available at £99.99, this could be paired with something like the Ravemen TR500 rear, one of the most powerful rear lights we've ever tested, which costs £64.99. Together they would come in at less than £165.

Or pair the Flare RT (£49.99) with a different front: the Moon Rigel Pro is £64.99, also has anti-dazzle features, and a 1,000 lumen and 350 lumen output, and weighs only 123g. It includes some clever tech to adjust the brightness of each mode as well.

At £100, the highly rated Exposure Sirius Mk10 Daybright sports a 900-lumen max mode, and can also run up to 36 hours if you tweak its output. It also weighs only 85g. It can also charge other devices, like the Trek.

Did you enjoy using the lights? Yes

Would you consider buying the lights? The Flare RT yes, but I would consider other front lights.

Would you recommend the lights to a friend? Possibly

Use this box to explain your overall score

On its own, the rear would likely score 9/10; it's an excellent light, especially given its low weight. However, the front, despite its high quality and Kindbeam tech, has a number of issues that bring the overall score down. It's not a terrible set, but unfortunately, the excellent rear doesn't fully make up for the average battery life, limited modes, tricky-to-access button and mounting position of the front, which is why I'm going for 6 overall.

Overall rating: 6 /10

About the tester

Age: 43   Height: 181   Weight: 92 Kilos

I usually ride: GT Grade   My best bike is: Boardman ASR 8.9

I've been riding for: Over 20 years   I ride: Most days   I would class myself as: Experienced

I regularly do the following types of riding: commuting, club rides, sportives, general fitness riding, mtb, Zwifting

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Add new comment

A couple of additional notes on these lights - I have a Flare RT rear but not the front.

There are 2 bluetooth remotes you can get for them, a single button one and a 5-button one.  Search "Bontrager Transmitr". The 5 button one is discontinued but you can still find around in a number of places.

Secondly they both support the Bluetooth lights profile which means that a lot of  the Garmin Edges can control them.   Not sure its any better in winter gloves but it does give you another control option.   You can use the Garmin to control them as a pair or individually and switch brightness and flashing profiles.

Pairing them to an Edge also causes them to auto start when you press the "go" button on the head unit to start recording.

If you're a fully paid up member of the Garmin eco-system (and lets face its thats a lot of us) this option might just tip you over the edge into purchase mode.

There are also frequent offers on the Flare RT - infact I suspect you can probably sometimes pick up both lights for cheaper than this package.

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The Quick List

• FRONT LIGHTS
• 1. Best overall
• 2. Best for performance
• 3. Best for commuting
• REAR LIGHTS
• 2. Best viewing angles
• 3. Best value
• What to look out for

Best Bike Lights 2023: Jump Menu

The list in brief ↴

Front Lights 1. Best overall 2. Best for performance 3. Best for commuting

Rear Lights 1. Best overall 2. Best viewing angles 3. Best value

The best bike lights are essential if you're planning to ride after dark, before daybreak or even if you're out in poor conditions during the day.

Most cyclists will regularly ride after dark in autumn and winter, making bike lights an essential piece of kit, although daytime running bike lights are growing in popularity because they help you to be seen out on the road, even in bright sunlight.

We've tested a variety lights across a range of conditions, taking in to account a number considerations, including brightness, battery life, and build quality. From here we've selected the standouts and split our guide into three categories: front lights, rear lights and light sets. 

Below that you’ll find all the details on our recent four-way grouptest, covering a selection of top-flight high-powered front lights. At the bottom of the page, we delve into all the techy details of what to look for in the best bike lights.

Front lights

Best front bike light overall

At less than four times the price of the Exposure Strada MK12 RS AKTIV, the Magicshine ALLTY1000 provides a brighter central beam and longer battery life - all in a much lighter and more compact package. It misses out on the tech-y features of the Exposure, but for its combination of performance and price - the Magicshine ALLTY1000 is the light we'd recommend for most people.

Read more below

Best front bike light for performance

Exposure has a strong repution for the build quality of its lights, and cool aluminium body of the Exposure Strada MK12 RS AKTiv just exudes quality. The beam is bright and the lens provides great side illumination - the light has lumens to play with after all. It's packed with neat tech and has a rear display which gives the battery life remaining down to the minute.

Best front bike light for commuting

The Knog Blinder, despite its name, is literally out-shone by the Magicshine and Exposure lights to its left. However, the Knog Blinder's beam is still perfectly bright enough for riding at an endurance pace down unlit roads - just not bombing it at threshold. The simple silicone band makes it super easy to mount and, for regular commuting duties, it makes an excellent option. 

Rear lights

Best rear light overall

Tech-packed, boasting incredible battery life - and all whilst being competitively priced, the Magicshine SEEMEE300 is our overall winner. It has an in-built accelerometer and brightens when you brake, it castes a beam onto the floor to deliver 360 degree visibility and the battery life is claimed at an incredible 40 hours when shining at 20 lumens. 

Best rear light for viewing angles

The two big pluses for the Knog Mid Cobber rear bike light are the 330 degree visibility from the main light body, giving exceptional viewing angles with a super bright 170 lumen flash. The cableless charging either cinches the deal or turns you off - there’s quite a split on that. It’s the most expensive but does have those USPs, if that matters to you.

Best value rear light

The Topeak Taillux doesn’t pack fancy features such as ambient light detection or an in-built accelerometer. But it does have a good range of light modes, from a 100 lumen flash to an eye-catching combo of a constant beam with a flashing parameter - on that consistent/flashing mode the battery life is a respectable 10 hours. It’s a solid performer and with the lowest price, it’s the best value on test. 

Best bike lights 2024

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

Best front bike lights

The best front bike light overall.

Magicshine's ALLTY1000 combines a bright beam with impressive battery life

1. Magicshine ALLTY1000 front light

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

This light is really the star performer on test - it’s the least expensive by quite a way, super bright and nicely designed.

Let’s stick with the beam and lumens to start. I found it to be clearly brighter, casts its beam further, and has a similar beam width to the Trek Commuter Pro RT - and that’s despite both lights being claimed at 1,000 lumens and Trek’s light being over twice the price. By extension, the Magicshine Allty1000 is also brighter than both the PDW Lars Rover Power and the Knog Blinder 900.

There’s an interesting battle between which is brightest out of the Magicshine Allty1000 and the Exposure Strada Mk11 RS. I found that the central part of the Magicshine’s beam does shine brighter, but the Exposure Strada casts much more light to the sides, lighting up a greater area in total - as it should, with a lumen count of 1,450. Then again, the Exposure Strada costs over four times as much as the Allty1000, so in terms of light per penny, the Magicshine has the edge.

The Magicshine Allty1000 also has the longest battery life when shining on full. On the downside, it does charge with Micro USB rather than USB-C. The battery indication is more basic than the previous two lights, with a simple green LED changing to red and starting to flash as you get to 30% and 10% charge, respectively, which isn’t so helpful for power management on longer rides.

The band clamp system for the mount is really neat in how it accommodates all handlebar diameters without the need for rubber shims - which seem to invariably get lost. But the need for an Allen key and its fiddly nature means that this isn’t so easy to swap between bikes. On the other hand, it uses the same quarter-turn mount as a Garmin, so can be popped onto one of those mounts which is neat.

With the super bright beam for a light which is nominally only 1,000 lumens, I was perfectly happy putting in hard efforts when riding on the darkest roads with this light. I was able to see far enough ahead and with enough detail to push up to Threshold / Zone 4 and even seated VO2 Max / Zone 5 efforts. The only question is whether the performance at this price is too good to be true - I’d hesitate to give it full marks until the Allty1000 has proved itself in a full season of riding through the cold, wind and rain.

The best front bike light for performance

Exposure Strada MK12 RS AKTiv is both powerful and expensive

2. Exposure Strada MK12 RS AKTiv

As expected, with its 1,450 lumen claimed output, the Exposure Strada certainly puts out a great deal of light - though it’s not the unambiguous winner in this regard. Despite being less than a quarter of the price, I found that the Magicshine’s Allty1000 offers up a brighter central beam than even the Exposure Strada can muster. 

As mentioned earlier, this is largely down to the Exposure light spreading itself more thinly, lighting up the sides of the road to a greater extent. This side lumination isn’t going to be an important consideration for all riders, but I find a greater light spread can make for a less disorientating feeling when riding in the dark.

Exposure’s system for controlling the lights with the single, brushed metal button is very neat and well-thought out - but it does take a little while to get used to. Magicshine’s system is more basic, but it is at least intuitive straight out of the box. 

It’s a similar thing for the bar clamp - Exposure’s split-clamp system is exquisitely designed, with two CNC machined pieces of metal slotting together to make the hinge and clamp. But it is rather more fiddly and harder to use than the simple - but effective - silicone strap of the Knog Blinder. The display on the rear of the Exposure Strada is a particularly neat feature of this light, displaying as it does the remaining charge of the light down to the minute.

Still, away from all the peripherals, fundamentally the Exposure Strada remains a really, really good light. Like the Magicshine, I was happy barrelling along through the dark at full tilt, with the road ahead of me reassuringly brightly lit. 

This model comes with Exposure’s AKTiv tech, which automatically dims the light when faced with oncoming traffic. It’s really quite seamless, with the light smoothly reducing its brightness and equally smoothly returning to full strength - it’s not like switching between the main beam of your headlights and the dipped beam at all.

With the light so bright, it is quite nice and reassuring having it dip when faced with oncoming traffic - you can be quite sure that you won’t be dazzling anyone. Then again, if you aren’t running a MTB light with a whopping 3,000 lumens and if you do have your light correctly set up illuminating the road ahead of you, arguably this tech isn’t so necessary. Still, it functions well, is an extra nice-to-have, and solidifies this light as a tech-packed de-luxe model.

One of the most enduring features of Exposure lights, away from the excellent performance of the beams, is their longevity. Like Assos cycling kit, you are paying for a build quality which really lasts and should be considered alongside the (proportionality higher) upfront cost. However, against competition such as Magicshine’s Allty1000, it’s hard to recommend that everyone should spend that much more for Expsoure’s quality. But if you have the money to invest, you won’t be disappointed. 

The best front light for commuting

The Blinder 900 is sound option for commuters

3. Knog Blinder 900 front bike light

Despite having the weakest beam of all the lights on test, I really liked the Knog Blinder 900 and think there is good application for it. You just have to be clear about the sort of riding you’ll be using this light for. It’s simply not bright enough for bombing along at Tempo / Zone 3 through the still of the night - but it is plenty bright for riding at an Endurance / Zone 2 pace on even the darkest roads. 

For a commuter light, rather than one for post-work training rides or long-distance winter epics, this is perfectly sufficient. When wearing casual clothes, I’m not really going to be pushing any harder than Zone 2. Plus, if your commute is mainly street lit, there’s simply no need for a brighter light than this as it doesn’t make a significant difference to what you can see. 

With those parameters set out, the features really start to shine. First is the robust silicone band of the mounting bracket - I found this light is super easy to swap between bikes, taking a mere handful of seconds. There is still a quick release between the mount and the light, like all the other models on test - helpful when locking up in town.

Battery life is a handy two hours on full and the charging port is USB-C, so good future proofing there. There is a downside in that the battery indicator is as basic as the Magicshine Allty1000, with it remaining green for the most part and then changing to red at lower power percentages. 

A little more expensive than the Magicshine Allty1000, for most people it would make more sense to both save money and go for the brighter light. Still, given how easy the Knog Blinder is to attach and detach, along with its USB-C charging port, I can see a commuter situation in which I actually would choose to spend the extra money and go with the less powerful Knog Blinder. 

Admittedly, that is a pretty specific situation in which the Knog is the more desirable light, hence the four-star overall score.

Trek's Commuter Pro RT front light is well-designed to maxmise the lumens available

4. Trek Commuter Pro RT front light

More so than any of the lights on test, the lens of the Trek Commuter Pro RT is particularly well designed. It makes more effective use of the lumens it has available, focusing them from the area about two meters in front of your front wheel, and casting forwards from there.

It’s a really quite impressive  light, and performs markedly better than the Knog Blinder (claimed 900 lumens) and also better than the PNW Lars Rover Power - though that light offers a claimed 850 lumens, so you would expect a fair difference between them anyway. 

However, the comparison with Magicshine’s Allty1000 front light is rather less flattering, with the Allty1000 providing a more intense and clearer white light which is easier to see by - even though both lights have an equal claimed lumen count of 1,000. The Magicshine light is also less than half the price and has a longer claimed battery life on full, too.

Still, the Trek Commuter Pro RT does have a few neat features which could reasonably tip the balance for someone’s buying choice. I like the very clear and simple battery gauge, the fact that it charges with USB-C and the split clamp mounting system can be transferred between bikes without tools (although it isn’t as quick and easy as Knog’s system on the Blinder 900).

In use, the strength and pattern of the Commuter Pro RT’s beam meant that I was happy tapping along at Tempo / Zone 3 down unlit roads, although a solid Threshold / Zone 4 effort and seated VO2 Max intervals were a bit fast for the amount of road you can see ahead. 

The two orange side lights are a neat touch for increasing side-on visibility at tricky junctions and roundabouts. No doubt it’s better having those extra lights than not having them, but with a winter jacket and bulky winter gloves, there’s quite a range of angles from which the lights will be obscured. 

In all, the Trek Commuter Pro RT is a good light with lots of neat little features and functionality. It is also a fair chunk more expensive than other lights which outperform it in several key areas, meaning it’s not a first recommendation.

The Lars Rover is a robust front light

5. Portland Design Works Lars Rover Power 850

Portland Design Works’ Lars Rover Power 850 is a solid light with some good features to it. But the competition is stiff and when there are better performers available for less - there’s only one way the recommendations are going to go. That said, if you come across a good discount, that could tip the balance in this light’s favour, depending on the level of performance you need from your lights.

Regarding the positives, the PDW Lars Rover Power comes in at two thirds of the price of Trek’s Commuter Pro RT and its battery gauge is equally clear and simple, providing a good sense of the amount of juice you have left. The mounting system is also a tool-less split-clamp, just like Trek’s, and I found swapping between bikes isn’t too much of a faff - though it is more involved than Knog’s excellent system on the Blinder 900.

On the downside, the beam is a little underpowered compared to the other lights on test. Still, despite being nominally only 850 lumens, it brightens the way better than the Knog Blinder and is arguably on a par with the Trek Commuter Pro RT - though PDW does have a very different beam pattern.

PDW’s Lars Rover Power extends its beam further than Trek’s Commuter Pro RT, but for me it doesn’t ‘fill’ the road ahead quite as well. The PNW light also doesn’t fill the area perpendicularly out from the front wheel, whereas the Commuter Pro RT does cast its light out in that direction, too. In essence, the Lars Rover Power is a more ‘basic’ lens, but depending on your application this light distribution could be preferable.

Still, despite having the lowest lumen count, the PDW Lars Rover Power also has the joint lowest claimed battery life out of all on test - equal with the Trek Commuter Pro RT. It also uses the Micro USB for charging rather than USB-C, it’s still reasonably expensive, and the aesthetics are quite outdated - noticeably so against the latest crop of front lights. 

I found that I was happy riding on unlit roads at around an Endurance / Zone 2 level, also pushing up into the bottom end of Tempo / Zone 3. It didn’t provide enough light to push harder and ride faster than that, though. If you can find it on a discount, it’s a solid light for commuting, but at full RRP there are better options.

The Lezyne Macro Drive 1300XXL delivers a wide beam

6. Lezyne Macro Drive 1300XXL

The Lezyne Macro Drive 1300XXL, as its name suggests, puts out 1300 lumens. It provides a wide beam and attaches to the handlebar via a rubber strap, which is thick and stretchy, resulting in a robust overall package when paired with the CNCed aluminium body.

You can choose to use the 'Race' mode, which lets you switch between 1300 lumens and 130 lumens, or the standard mode, where you can cycle through all seven options. The Race mode is handy as it effectively lets you 'dip' the beam.

Charging is via a micro USB cable. The battery life is a claimed 2.5 hours. We tested this twice, and found we still had either a flashing red light (indicating 5% battery left) or solid red light (indicating 5-10% left) after 2 hours 20 minutes.

All in, we concluded that this is a solid light which we would wholeheartedly recommend. 

Read more: Lezyne Macro Drive 1300XXL full review

The Dayblazer offers plenty of power without a high price tag

7. Blackburn Dayblazer 1500

The Dayblazer 1500 from Blackburn is the lowest scorer on test. It lost marks for the mount, which broke during our testing. We feel this was largely due to its skinny profile and the amount of force required to fit it to a chunky road bike handlebar - which we feel it needs to b able to withstand. In addition, whilst it claims to come with a helmet mount, we'd suggest it comes with a helmet mount adapter which doesn't provide all you'd need to fit the light to your lid.

Fittings aside, we found that the Blackburn Dayblazer 1500 does put out plenty of light. It was also the lightest option among those we tested, at just 143g. As for the build quality of the main body, it is robust, and water and grit protection is excellent. 

Read more: Blackburn Dayblazer 1500 full review

The Flux's lens shape makes for a wide angle beam

8. Specialized Flux 1250

The Specialized Flux's robust aluminium construction and IP67 weatherproofing marks it out as a good all-condition option. There's a mix of spot and flood beams from the two LEDs and the light can be mounted on the bars, a helmet or via a GoPro mount.

There's a 3,400mAh battery that will give you 1.5 hours runtime on full power, with a choice of seven modes in total. We found that the flood beam really covers the width of the road and there is plenty of forward illumination. However, we also noted that this does limit the spot power when riding on trails for example. 

Charging hasn't switched over to USB-C, although a full charge still takes only an hour. 

Read more: Specialized Flux 1250 full review

Best rear bike lights

The best rear light overall.

Magicshine's SEEMEE300 is packed with tech including an inbuilt motion sensor

1. Magicshine SEEMEE300

The SEEMEE300 is an incredibly tech-packed light - as well as hitting a competitive price point. It’s really very impressive what Magicshine has done with this light, so let’s run through each of the features in turn.

First, the fun stuff. An increasing number of rear lights have these features, but Magicshine isn’t to be left out - the SEEMEE300 has an inbuilt motion sensor, with the light shining its full 300 lumens when it senses the bike is braking (the highest ‘constant’ setting is 100 lumens). 

In addition to that, it also shines a circle of light onto the ground behind you, boosting visibility from every angle. The main light itself has a side cutout to increase the angle of visibility to 260 degrees - which is high in itself, although not the highest. 

The mounting system is one the best I’ve ever used, with a thick silicone band that holds the light firmly in place (and on a variety of seatpost depths). But it also has a quarter turn mount, making it quick and easy to remove the light when wearing gloves in the winter - whether taking it in for charging, or when popping into the shops.

Then there’s the battery life, which is on another level. Even on the highest ‘constant’ setting, the claimed run time is six hours. When on the ‘low’ setting - which is still 20 lumens! - that goes out to a whopping 40 hours.

For me, there is one slight idiosyncrasy in that the light can sense the ambient light condition and adjust its beam accordingly - but the light goes brighter at night and dimmer during daylight. Personally, I’d want the brighter light in the daytime in order to stand out better - a light doesn’t have to be super bright to be highly visible at night. On the other hand, at least the daytime flash setting does make full use of all the 300 lumens.

In all, it’s a highly impressive light with a host of clever features and nice touches. The fact that the price is so competitive makes it the first choice in most cases.

The best rear light for viewing angles

Th distinctive looking Knog Mid Cobber rear light

2. Knog Mid Cobber Rear Bike Light

The Knog Mid Cobber has a few really nice features which make it stand out against the crowd - but it also has a few limitations which put it out of the running for ‘best overall’.

In terms of the good, the Knog Mid Cobber has the widest angle of visibility out of all the lights on test - the distinctive curve of this light is instantly recognisable as a Knog, and it gives a whopping 330 degree range of visibility directly from the light.

The Silicone O-ring is stretchy, strong, and can easily accommodate a range of seatpost depths. Being an O-ring, it’s hard (for me, impossible) to remove the light without removing your gloves first. But once you do it is quick to swap between bikes. 

Finally, the Mid Cobber has built-in USB charging, so you don’t need to remember a cable - but you do need a USB port to plug it into and the light itself is pretty bulky. For some people cableless charging is a must-have deal breaker - for me, I prefer USB-C and the flexibility of a cable. 

In terms of the not-so-good, the battery life isn’t great. The highest constant setting is 75 lumens (the full 170 only happens in some flashing modes) and this only lasts for 2 hours. Even the lowest constant setting at 35 lumens - which is still brighter than I think is necessary - is only 3.5 hours. 

The flash settings do give you longer run times but, when riding at light, in many countries it’s a legal requirement to have at least one constant rear beam. And with good reason, it’s harder to track the motion of a vehicle/person when there isn’t a fixed source of light. So those short run times are a bit of a shame. 

The price is also higher than the excellent Magicshine SEEMEE300, and with that light being so good in so many respects, most people will get better value from the cheaper option. But, if you like the wide visibility angle and the cableless charging, the Knog Mid Cobber could be an option for you.

The best value rear light

Topeak's Taillux 100 is a great value rear light

3. Topeak Taillux 100 USB

The Topeak Taillux 100 doesn’t have the bells and whistles of some of the other lights on test - but it does the fundamentals very well, and comes in a little cheaper as a result.

The maximum brightness is 100 lumens and the burn time is listed as three hours on that mode, which is respectable, though not class-leading. In the arms race for ever more lumens, to have 100 on a rear light is pretty standard these days. But it is well beyond what is really necessary for being seen - during testing I never felt the need to run the light on full blast.

Fortunately, there is a mode which sees the three center lights stay constantly lit, but the bright outer ring blinks in a sequence. I really like this sort of setting, as you get the constant beam which makes it easier for people in cars to track your movement - but you also are more likely to catch their eye with the flickering light. Even better, this bumps the battery life up to a healthy 10 hours.

The mounting is via a Silicone band, which accommodates seatposts of varying depths, as well as making it easy to swap between bikes. You can also use the light with a clip, which makes it possible to attach to the light loop of a saddle bag or similar. 

Charging is via USB-C which is nice and up to date. And the viewing angle is 220 degrees, which is respectable, although again not class leading. There are no features such as brake sensing or ambient light sensing. On the other hand, it’s light and a bit cheaper. If you don’t need the extra tech, this is a great option.

Raveman's TR500 excels as daytime running option

4. Ravemen TR500

The Ravemen TR500 is a pretty close contender for being best on test. Starting with the best stuff, the ‘warning flash’ setting is exceptional for daytime riding. This chucks out a whopping 500 lumens with an eye-catching and rapid flash - if you’re concerned about riding at sunset, or are just after the maximum visibility at all times, this is an excellent option.

Like other lights on test, the maximum lumens for the constant beam are 100 and with a 4.5 hour runtime on that setting, it’s second only to the Magicshine SEEMEE300. But with 20 lumens of the ‘low’ setting are plenty, and on that setting you get a hefty 17 hours - again, second only to Magicshine.

Although it doesn’t have an ambient light sensor, the Ravemen TR500 light does have an accelerometer and I like how it brightens when you brake. The light attaches using a Silicone strap, which I found simple and straightforward to use, making it easy to swap between bikes and accommodate aero seatposts. The light also charges by USB-C.

Were it not for the Magicshine SEEMEE300 with its longer battery life - and also its floor-directed beam for full 360 degree visibility, the Ravemen would be top of this grouptest overall. But even so, that super-bright 500 lumen flash means that this is hands down the best daytime running light on test.

Bontrager's Flare RT  is compact but still has plenty of features

5. Bontrager Flare RT

This is a great little light with a solid range of features. Despite its diminutive size, it can still put out up to 90 lumens - although only on the flashing setting. With a constant beam, that brightest setting is 25 lumens and a run time of only 4.5 hours. 

This goes out to 13.5 hours on the lowest light setting, but that only comes to five lumens - which is a little too dim for me! In a more urban setting, I don’t feel like that’s bright enough to really stand out against the street lights, traffic lights and the head and tail lights of passing traffic. On darker lanes without so much other light pollution, arguably those five lumens stand out better, but with the higher speed of traffic on country roads, I don’t feel like this is sufficient. 

So the 4.5 hour run on ‘high’ is basically as good as it gets for night riding - but for commuting duties and evening rides, that is all that’s needed. The daytime flash mode is pretty good with those 90 lumens and a six hour run time, at least considering the size of the light.

And considering the size of the light is essentially what this all comes down to - either you want a smaller and less obtrusive light, and are happy to put up with less battery life as a result. Or the shorter battery life is going to be a sticking point and you’ll prefer something larger with more juice.

The attachment system is with a Silicone strap, but there’s also a quick-release lever, making it a bit quicker and easier to take the light off if you’ve stopped off somewhere or just need to take it in to charge. It’s not as easy as a quarter-turn mount - with gloves it’s a little fiddly but do-able. The charging is through micro USB, which is a little old-fashioned at this point, but with so many devices still using the standard, it’s not dead yet. 

In all, this light suits someone who prizes size above all else. The brightness is perfectly serviceable for both daytime and nighttime use, it’s just the battery life is a little low and there isn’t much in the way of extra features - such as an accelerometer or visibility boosting from a range of angles. At the same price as the Ravemen TR500 and the Magicshine SEEMEE300 - as well as being more expensive than the Topeak Taillux 100 USB, it’s a pretty specific use-case where this one comes out top.

The ViZ300 is certainly bright but also a little fiddly to mount

6. CatEye ViZ300 rear light

Bright enough for all applications and a good choice of modes makes this a great choice for most serious riders. We particularly like how the ViZ300 has a 100 lumen mode lasting 8 hours, helping to make long winter rides that much safer. Alternatively, 45 hours on a single charge will keep most commuter users satisfied without charge for well over a week.

Three powerful LEDs make up the lighting array for this light. CatEye has incorporated good lensing and a nice clear case allowing for viewing angles of 300 degrees - so no blind spots for tailing drivers. Not that it comes on all too regularly, but the light also features a low battery light in the function button so you can see when a charge is needed.

Read more: CatEye ViZ300 rear light full review

The Cerberus is designed to fit on any size or shape of seatpost

7. Moon Cerberus rear light

The Moon Cerberus is worth considering if you own a variety of bikes with different seat posts. The innovative hinged wings used to mount the light make it exceptionally versatile, though we'd also suggest that it might not be the most stable.

The light boasts three COB LEDs. A conventional rear-facing one is complemented by two lateral ones, ensuring that road users to your left and right also get a decent blast of light. It was this innovative set-up that achieved awards for the Cerberus soon after its launch. 

Moon are known for their slick, compact lights and the Cerberus is no exception; the plush buttons aren't the easiest to locate and operate though. On the plus side, modes are well arranged and certainly not too plentiful; you won't be scrolling excessively to find what you need. 

Read more: Moon Cerberus rear light full review

8. Knog Blinder Square rear light

The Knog Blinder Square rear light is a really neat and smart light. It boasts 100 lumens of light and eight different programmes to suit your run-time and pattern preferences. The standard Blinder comes in a square, alien, cross or grid pattern further extending your flashy programme choices.  

The small clasp makes it incredibly easy and secure to mount albeit with the downside of needing to swap bands for different sized seatposts. It uses a USB-A connector for charging doing away with the need for a cable and a vulnerable port but the battery indicator light itself is a bit hidden. There is also longer thinner Blinder V version available but we found the on/off switch harder to access than on the standard Square-shaped Blinder. 

Read more: Knog Blinder Square and V Bolt rear light review

9. Ravemen TR30M rear light

The main selling point for the Ravemen TR30M is the size and weight. The tiny 22 gram weight penalty is up there with the best of the smallest lights, whilst also boasting a respectable lumen count (30) and the 360 degree viewing angles.

However, you can’t have everything. The TR30M does fall down slightly on battery life compared to competitors in the 30 lumen vicinity. Plus, the mount isn't the most secure – likely due to the lightweight materials used.

That said, a quick charge time, 360 degree viewing angles and the lightweight formfactor still makes this a potential option for some riders.

Read more: Ravemen TR30M rear light full review

Garmin Varia RTL515 comes loaded with safety features

10. Garmin Varia RTL515

Garmin's Varia RTL515 has four light modes, 65-lumens under the hood, and has a viewing angle of up to 220-degrees, but that's not what sets this light apart.

Hidden inside this sleek looking taillight is a rear-facing radar which can pick up cars from up to 140m / 459ft away, and when connected to a Garmin, Wahoo or other brand head unit, alerts you to and tracks cars as they approach. It may sound like a gimmick, but in our experience, it is surprisingly accurate, and often picks up cars before our ears do.

The radar also means that the light can change its lighting pattern as a car approaches, flashing more brightly and more rapidly to make certain that you're seen.

There's a robust mount that can be converted to fit different shaped seatposts and an app to configure the light and which acts as a head unit if you don't have a bike computer.

Read more: Garmin Varia RTL515 review

11. Bryton Gardia R300L

The R300L is the first rear light and radar unit from Bryton. A built in G-Sensor can detect braking and change the light output accordingly, but it is the addition of radar that is the most interesting development. 

The unit can detect vehicles from around 150m behind, alerting you with a bleep as well as a visual change to the side bar on your display, then, as the car approaches you, an icon moves up the side bar until it is near the top of the screen. Then you know that it is a short way behind you. Once the 'threat' has passed you or turned off, the unit bleeps again and the side bar turns green. Multiple vehicles can be displayed on your display too. 

The great thing about this technology is how surprisingly useful it can become. You can concentrate on the road conditions more and then look down when it is appropriate to do so, having been alerted by the bleep. Then a look behind can be usefully deployed as necessary. 

We found that the light is good, albeit not as great as the class leading lights, and it also has decent battery life. The light can be turned off completely, as it is able to be run solely as a radar unit, with a 24 hour battery life in that mode. The seat post bracket feels nicely secure and it locks the light on well, and conventional round, aero and D-shaped posts are catered for. It is priced very keenly for what it offers.

Read more: Bryton Gardia R300L Rear Light & Radar full review

12. Garmin Varia RCT715

The Varia RCT715 is Garmin's range-topping integrated rear light, camera and radar unit – all in one. It's an incredibly versatile solution for covering your safety needs.

The rear-facing radar keeps you informed on the traffic situation behind, notifying you about cars  from up to 140m / 459ft away. Our tester was surprised at how quickly he came to rely on its information and how just useful it proved.

The rear light itself has four modes, but it will also automatically change its behaviour when it senses a car approaching from behind and will change its flash pattern to further alert the driver. Our tester found the Day Flash 65 lumen setting best for daytime use and Solid 20 lumen mode for night riding.

On top of this, the camera films with a good quality at 1080p, which easily enables you to read the number plates of passing cars.

Read more: Garmin Varia RCT715 full review

Best bike light sets

The Giant HL 100 and TL 100 Combo lightset is simple and easy to use

1. Giant Recon HL 100 and Recon TL 100 combo

The Giant Recon HL 100 and TL 100 are very simple to operate, with no long presses, counting flashes to determine brightness level or anything like that. You just cycle through the five modes by short-pressing the on/off button and it’s the standard long press for on and off.

The switch, however, is a small oblong that needs direct pressure in exactly the right place. A protruding, rubbery switch would be easier but it would wreck the cube’s symmetry. I can live with form over function this time, but sometimes it takes a couple of attempts to activate it, especially with gloves.

The Tail-Light (TL) is surprisingly bright – blinding even – for such a small light. It’s really all you’d ever need from a rear light. The Head-Light (HL) is fine for streetlit commutes but is not enough for seeing on unlit roads – it is strictly a ‘be-seen’ light.

Landing in the middle ground price wise, they're well designed and have good functionality. Perfect for a lightweight, versatile, good-looking, commuter light set with a very useful daytime mode.

Read more: Giant Recon HL 100 and Recon TL 100 combo review

The Lezyne Micro Drive 600XL and KTV Pro light set is solid and secure

2. Lezyne Micro Drive 600XL and KTV Pro light set

At 600 lumens, the Lezyne 600XL packs a punch and isn't far off being a 'seeing' light.

The front 600XL uses a permanently attached rubber strap to wrap it tight around the handlebar but it also rotates on the clamp allowing you to fit on fork leg or any odd angled position. Despite being used on the fork leg for riding LEJOG, we had no issues with the light remaining steadfastly in place.

The LEDs are arranged in a side-by-side pattern and push out a decent spread of light that in most modes works as a flood light to light up the road ahead evenly. Only in the two brightest modes does it take on more of a spot pattern, highlighting a smaller but brighter patch of the road ahead. But we can attest that even the lower flashing modes are bright enough to light up road signs from over five hundred metres away easily.

With regards the rear KTV unit, mounting is reliant on the thick rubber strap and slightly compliant rear recess on the light body. This recess is a little too narrow and the rubber a little too stiff to hold it tight against a standard seatpost. This does result in the light twisting off centre during a ride and reduces rear visibility. Something you will need to keep an eye on.

Read more: Lezyne Micro Drive 600XL and KTV Pro light set review

Exposure Trace lights are a long term favourite in the Cycling Weekly office

3. Exposure Trace and Trace R MK2 light set

The Trace and TraceR lights are the smallest and most featherweight units Exposure produces and at first glance it's hard to imagine the sort of performance they are capable of. But just like David against Goliath, size isn't everything.

Tiny, robust, extremely bright and with long burn times, there really is nothing to fault the Exposure Trace and TraceR light set. Ideal for everything from commuting to being a backup set for longer trips, this is a set of lights that will provide reliable service for many a year.

The beam pattern and visibility for both lights are exceptional. The front throws out a good spread of light and in flashing mode easily lights up road signs for a few hundred metres ahead and the rear daybright mode is searingly bright. Both lights also have an extended lens that enables them to throw out a good level of side visibility, extending the safety levels.

Charging is simple and it takes just 1.5 hours to charge each from empty. A USB charging port is located under the rubber band that encircles the light. It can be a bit fiddly to pull it out of the way but you soon get used to the process. We’re yet to have any water ingress so despite its flimsy appearance it works really well.

Read more: Exposure Trace and TraceR MK2 light set review

CatEye Sync; Core and Kinetic light set uses wireless connection to pair lights together

4. CatEye Sync: Core, Kinetic and Wearable

The CatEye Sync range is the next step in bike lights where up to seven units are connected together wirelessly so that when one is switched on, the others light up too. Equally, when a mode is changed or the lights are to be turned off, one press of a button on one unit will change all the lights too.

It might sound a little excessive, but we found that it did genuinely make commuting easier – particularly with a train journey splitting up the riding and consequently having to turn the lights on and off twice as often.

The rear Kinetic light has an inbuilt accelerometer, which automatically turns on high mode when it detects a deceleration. This is very bright at 50 lumens and works very well to attract attention of road users behind.

The front light, which is 500 lumens, has extended side illumination for added 'be seen' credentials. It has five light modes and seems to be super bright during night time commuting. We were especially impressed by its quality build and the Daytime HyperConstant mode.

The Wearable is a nice addition too. It is a small light but still knocks out 40 lumens. Its shape lends itself to be seen from the side also and placed on the back, clipped to a pocket or bag, gives you some extra peace of mind that you'll be seen.

Read more:   CatEye Sync; Core, Kinetic and Wearable review

Everything you need to know about bike lights

What should you look for in a bike light.

We’ll look at specialist lighting options in a moment, but for now, let’s assume you’re a road rider or commuter who wants to see and be seen when the sun sets. What do you need to consider when buying your lights?

Pretty much all modern cycle lights use LEDs rather than old-school bulbs, and such has been the advancement of technology, these can be blindingly bright.

Of course, light power is an important part of your buying criteria, but don’t let that be the be-all and end-all. Beam shape and the effect of the light lens can make a huge difference — we’ve seen lights of supposedly lesser power trounce rivals when it comes to real-world performance.

Even if you plan on using a light to see, it will still perform the double duty of helping you to be seen by other road users.

If you’ll be riding on lit roads, you may find the need for an ultra-bright constant beam is unnecessary and a flash function at the front is perfectly adequate.

What should I consider when choosing a rear light?

Though the amount of power you'll need for your front light will vary depending upon where you're riding, no cyclist should be without an adequate rear bike light. Rear bike lights will usually emit around 30 lumens or more, and generally have several modes: steady light, flashing, or a combination between the two. All options are safe and legal, but a flashing mode will usually help to save battery life and attract more attention.

Recently we have been introduced to the idea of using a rear bike light even in the daytime , because it will help drivers pick you out from behind. It's also a sensible idea to double up on rear lights. Though it's unlikely, you won't be quite so aware if your rear bike light fails as you would be in the case of a front beam, so having a back-up fitted can provide extra security and peace of mind.

For your rear light, the flash function is ideal. But if you’re a bike commuter, with both front and rear lights also consider how effective the lamp is in terms of side lighting, as this will make you more visible from more angles and help avoid the "sorry, I didn't see you" excuse from a turning vehicle.

It’s still generally a case of the brighter the better, but you also need to consider other qualities that will make your life easier. Look to see how many flash settings the light has; what the run times will be on a single charge or one set of batteries; and see if it has a rechargeable power source.

In this case, check if it needs its own special charger or if it can be recharged via USB, which aids convenience immensely. Some lights even have a helpful gauge showing how much power they have left.

What do the battery life numbers mean?

For most lights above we've quotes a battery life range. All lights will have multiple modes, so the range is from the most intense to the most economical option.

Most lights will burn through the battery quickly in their highest mode. For fast riding on tricky off-road trails you might need this, but it's worth dialling down the light intensity if you're on easier terrain or tarmac. Your eyes will quickly acclimatise to the lower light level, while on their top output many bike lights can be as intense as a car headlight and dazzle oncoming traffic.

Some lights will dial down their intensity if they start to get too hot or as the battery begins to run down and so extend battery runtime.

Flashing modes give you the longest battery life. They're a good option to up your visibility, particularly at the rear and when riding in daylight, but unless there's good street lighting you'll probably want to run a constant mode at the front at night, which will reduce runtime. It's why front lights usually have larger capacity batteries than rear ones. 

It's worth looking at the quotes runtimes in different modes when selecting a light.

What does UK law say about bike lights?

New bikes are sold with reflectors (and you can read in detail about the legal requirements relating to reflectors here) but regardless - if you're riding at night, using a proper set of bike lights is really an essential.

In the UK, law regarding bike lights is governed by the Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations, first published in 1989 but amended six times since, which say that as well as your pedal reflectors and rear reflectors (the side and front reflectors aren’t actually a legal necessity) night-riders will also need lights front and back.

The lights have to be mounted on the bike centrally or to the offside, positioned up to 1.5m from the ground, and conform to British Safety or EC standards.

Both front or rear lights can be flashers, but if so they must emit at least four candela. “But bike lights tend to be rated in lumens or Watts, what’s a candela?” we hear you cry.

It’s not a particularly easy subject to explain, and they’re not directly convertible units. But simply put: as long as you buy decent quality bike lights, fit them properly, and remember to switch them on, the law shouldn’t be a problem.

Bike lights and the US law

What does us law say about bike lights.

In the US, the law requires riders to have both active and passive lighting — active lighting is well...lights, while passive lighting is things like reflectors and reflective clothing.

The exact wording of the laws varies from state to state, but the summation of it all is that between sunset and sunrise or in conditions of 'limited visibility' you must have a white light pointing forwards, and a red light pointing backwards.

What does the lumens number tell me about the power of my bike light?

Lumens are used by the bike industry to measure the power of a light: a lumen is a unit of visible light. Since modern LEDs require far less energy, expressing their power in watts — which tells you how much energy they consume rather than how much light they produce — is redundant. For comparison’s sake, a 100W incandescent bulb emits 1600 lumens.

The more you pay, the more lumens you get, but lumens burn up charge, meaning that if you want to run a high-lumen light for a long period of time it will need a big battery.

For road riding on unlit back streets, you need a 'seeing' light. This needs to be at least 700 lumens, though to ride fast like you would in the summer then 1000+ lumens is a safer bet as you'll have longer to anticipate obstacles like potholes.

To be seen when riding on lit roads, 100 lumens is a good benchmark, but 300+ will show you a little more of what's going on at ground level ahead of you. At the rear, anything from 20 to 100 lumens is plenty.

How should I mount my bike lights?

The last consideration is mounting. Smaller bike lights may be simply mounted using a rubber or silicone strap, whereas big lamps — especially front lights — may require a fixed bracket. Truly powerful front lights may even feature an external battery pack that will also need to be accommodated on the bike.

In any case, if you’re planning to leave your bike parked up in public for any length of time, make sure your lamps can be easily removed and take them with you when you stop.

Do I need back-up bike lights or helmet-mounted bike lights for extra brightness?

The typical bike commuter on urban streets will only need a relatively simple set of front and rear lights. There’s still every reason to buy the best you can afford, and even double up with an extra set of cheap emergency-only flashers front and back. But if you’ll be riding off-road or on unlit back roads, you really do need to go for the bigger, more powerful lamps with wider beams.

To augment their bike-mounted torch, many riders also opt for helmet-mounted lights. These can be very effective and have the added benefit of directing the light wherever you are looking. However, these should be in addition to those on the bike, and not your only source of illumination.

Another sensible option is the dynamo light. This uses a compatible hub or wheel-rubbing bottle dynamo to convert your forward motion into electricity which then powers the light — so no need for batteries. Bottle dynamos can be disengaged in daylight hours so they don’t drag unnecessarily, and at night mean you’ll never need to worry about run times or recharging again.

Super safe accessories

Night riding isn’t just about illumination. In recent years a whole industry of associated safety accessories has come about.

There are some smart options out there designed to improve your safety. For example, the Garmin Varia radars will literally make you aware of and track cars as they approach, while the CatEye Sync range allows you to switch on multiple lights at the push of one button.

There are more innovative products appearing all the time, so do enjoy exploring the world of cycle lighting. Just remember, the basic rules haven’t changed: be safe, be seen.

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Hannah is Cycling Weekly’s longest-serving tech writer, having started with the magazine back in 2011. She has covered all things technical for both print and digital over multiple seasons representing CW at spring Classics, and Grand Tours and all races in between.

Hannah was a successful road and track racer herself, competing in UCI races all over Europe as well as in China, Pakistan and New Zealand.

For fun, she's ridden LEJOG unaided, a lap of Majorca in a day, won a 24-hour mountain bike race and tackled famous mountain passes in the French Alps, Pyrenees, Dolomites and Himalayas. 

She lives just outside the Peak District National Park near Manchester UK with her partner, daughter and a small but beautifully formed bike collection. 

The sprinter follows in the wheel tracks of Bradley Wiggins and Chris Hoy

By Adam Becket Published 14 June 24

The three-stage race has existed in its current format since 2022

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Riding with the Trek 7.2 FX: Unbiased Bike Review

October 26, 2023

‍ Key Takeaways

• The Trek 7.2 FX hybrid seamlessly melds city-bike convenience with road-bike agility, guaranteeing riders a dynamic performance across terrains.
• Combining state-of-the-art features like its Alpha Gold Aluminum frame and ergonomic design, this bike stands out as a top pick for daily commuters and recreational riders.
• Although maintenance plays a vital role, the Trek 7.2 FX's robust build and quality components promise durability and longevity for dedicated cyclists.

‍ If you're in the market for a hybrid bike with solid durability, the Trek 7.2 FX has to be mentioned. It has amazing features that make it worth considering.

The Trek 7.2 FX is a versatile hybrid bike, expertly blending the comfort of a road bike and the adaptability of a mountain bike. Ideal for city commutes and gravel roads, its lightweight Alpha Gold Aluminum frame, ergonomic design, and 700c wheels offer a smooth, efficient ride for long distances.

With years of expertise in evaluating bikes, our team knows precisely what to look for and what matters most to riders. In this review, you'll gain insights into the performance, comfort, and versatility of the Trek 7.2 FX, ensuring you clearly understand what this hybrid bike truly offers.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

‍ Overview of the Trek 7.2 FX Bike

The Trek 7.2 FX is a hybrid bike that perfectly balances city bike comfort and road bike handling. This bike is versatile and offers a smooth ride in various conditions.

These features make it an excellent choice for daily commutes, leisure rides, and short trips around the town. The 7.2 FX is designed to provide the comfort of a road bike with the versatility of a mountain bike.

This makes it suitable for various terrains, from city streets to unpaved trails. Made with Trek's Alpha Gold Aluminum, the frame is lightweight yet durable. This ensures the bike offers a swift ride without compromising on strength.

What We Loved

As we rode the Trek 7.2 FX, we couldn't help but appreciate its versatility. This bike combines the best road and city bikes, perfect for commuting and light trail riding adventures.

The comfortable handlebar position and responsive brakes make it a joy to ride. Packed with features like Bontrager wheels, this hybrid is quick and maneuverable.

One thing that stood out during our ride on this bike is how easy it is to customize to fit our needs. It adapts well if we need it for fitness, commuting, or leisure rides. Plus, its affordability doesn't hurt either.

What Could Be Improved

No bike is perfect, and the Trek 7.2 FX is no exception. Some areas we feel could use improvement include the availability of the bike at local Trek shops, due to supply chain issues.

The weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) could be higher for those who plan to carry heavier loads during their rides. A comparison to the Giant Escape might be useful for potential buyers who are considering alternative options.

While the Trek 7.2 FX comes equipped with puncture-resistant tires, we believe the puncture-resistant belt 700x35c could be further improved for increased durability.

The steel fork provides function at the cost of adding weight, and an upgrade to a lighter material, such as carbon or aluminum, might be desirable for some riders.

In terms of gearing, the Trek 7.2 FX features Shimano Altus EF51 8-speed components. While it gets the job done, we found ourselves wishing for more (or more refined) gear options, particularly for steep inclines or tougher trails.

Key Features Of The Trek 7.2 FX

One issue with an old bike like this is that it can be difficult to find it brand new. For that reason, retailer prices may vary. You can still find it available for the manufacturer's suggested retail prices if you buy used too. Here are some of the key features that stand out.

Alpha Gold Aluminum Frame

The Trek 7.2 FX features a premium Alpha Gold Aluminum frame. This material strikes the perfect balance between lightness and strength, ensuring a nimble ride without compromising on durability.

Its design is robust and aesthetically sleek, offering a modern look for urban riders. The Trek 7.2 FX is a versatile bike that can easily handle city streets and urban environments while still being capable of tackling light off-road terrain.

Versatile 700c Wheels

Equipped with 700c wheels, the bike offers a combination of speed and stability. These larger wheels roll more efficiently, allowing riders to cover distances faster on paved roads. Meanwhile, the tread design ensures sufficient grip for light off-road trails.

Due to its lightweight aluminum frame, the bike delivers smooth and stable handling at various speeds, making it enjoyable and safe to ride. Pair this with the 700c wheels, and you have a top-rated bike.

Ergonomic Design for Comfort

Prioritizing rider comfort, the 7.2 FX boasts an ergonomic design. The handlebars and saddle are specifically shaped to provide optimum support during extended rides.

The bike's geometry also promotes an upright riding position, reducing the strain on the rider's back and shoulders, ideal for daily commutes and long weekend rides.

Although the Trek 7.2 FX is slower than road bikes because of its heavier and wider tires, it still offers quick and efficient pedaling, outperforming most city bikes. The gearing system contributes to its ability to maintain an optimal riding speed on different terrains.

Easily Customizable Mounts

To cater to the diverse needs of riders, the 7.2 FX comes with multiple mounts. These allow for easy attachment of accessories like racks, fenders, and lights.

Whether you're commuting with cargo, bracing for wet weather, or riding in the dark, these mounts make customization straightforward and efficient. They pair well with the pre-production painted frames.

Riding Experience With The Trek 7.2 FX

Navigating city streets or cruising on weekend trails, the Trek 7.2 FX promises a unique blend of performance and comfort. Dive into this section to uncover firsthand insights into the riding experience this versatile hybrid bike offers.

Gravel Roads

Riding the Trek 7.2 FX on gravel roads is a breeze. The off-road experience might not be as comfortable as a dedicated mountain bike, but this bike offers excellent climbing performance.

You can also expect a lightning-fast response time and a wide 3x8 gear range, making riding on gravel roads enjoyable.

City Commutes

The 7.2 FX boasts excellent handling and stability. Wide, puncture-resistant tires and 700c Bontrager wheels provide smooth riding at quick speeds.

Although it is slower than most road bikes, it easily passes city bikes while commuting. The lightweight aluminum body with an alloy cage allows for easy handling during city commutes, and the slim-stack semi-cartridge bearings sealed pedal set keeps your ride smooth.

On pavement, the Trek 7.2 FX shines as it provides a smooth and efficient ride, perfect for commuting to work, running errands, or just enjoying a leisurely cruise. The wide gear range, coupled with the puncture-resistant belt 700x35c tires, helps the bike take on various urban terrains.

The Tektro alloy linear-pull brakes ensure reliable stopping power, allowing you to tackle any pavement situation confidently.

Riding the Trek 7.2 FX on trails offers a versatile experience suitable for riders with diverse needs. This bike is great for those who wish to commute to work or start a fitness program but still want the capability to explore nature trails on the weekends.

Though the 7.2 FX might not be as agile as a dedicated mountain bike, it does provide an overall enjoyable experience for casual trail rides. Some notable features include:

• W puncture-resistant belt
• W lowrider mounts Clix protection
• Tensile steel w lowrider mounts
• Lowrider mounts Clix dropouts
• Lite w puncture-resistant protection
• Slimstak semi cartridge bearings
• Durable body w alloy cage
• Additional nylon body w alloy protection

How Long Does The Trek 7.2 FX Bike Last?

As avid cyclists, we love the Trek 7.2 FX for its unique blend of city bike comfort, road bike handling, and stability. It's a versatile machine that is built to withstand various weather conditions and lasts for years. But how long does it really last? Let's dive into some details.

The Trek 7.2 FX hybrid bike's lightweight alpha silver aluminum duotrap frame and robust components are designed to endure long-term use and resist wear and tear, making it a durable choice for those who commute or ride regularly.

On this bike, you'll find features like puncture-resistant Bontrager H2 hard case tires and a reliable Shimano drivetrain to help maintain its longevity. Now, keep in mind that any bike's lifespan largely depends on factors like how it's used, the terrain it's exposed to, and how well the owner maintains it.

Regular maintenance, like cleaning and lubricating the chain, checking the tires for punctures, and adjusting the brakes, will extend the life of your Trek 7.2 FX. Aside from proper maintenance, it's essential to consider other factors, like the maximum total weight limit the bike can handle, including the rider and cargo.

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About THE AUTHOR

Danny Lawson

Mountain biking is more than just a hobby for me - it's a way of life. I love the challenge and excitement that comes with it, and I'm always pushing myself to go faster and ride harder. Some people might think that mountain biking is dangerous, but I see it as the only way to live.

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Trek’s Carback Bicycle Radar Light Takes on the Market Leader

The Carback claims a better detection range than the Varia RTL515, but its real-world performance doesn't quite match up.

Takeaway: The Trek Carback is a serious contender to Garmin in the on-bike radar market. However, while the Carback nears the Varia RTL515’s performance, Trek’s claim of increased radar detection range fell short in our side-by-side testing.

Trek CarBack Radar Rear Bike Light

The Garmin Varia is so widely used and functions so well that Garmin essentially cornered the on-the-bike radar market. Competing units from Bryton and Magicshine are available, but they suffer from inconsistent car detection or poor battery life, so it’s hard to recommend anything other than the Varia.

I trust the Varia so much that I purchased a second one for my cargo bike right before having my first kid. While I know the radar cannot protect me from being run over by someone staring at their cell phone, it will at least alert me that a car is approaching me from behind.

If you were to force me to bet which brand would attempt to make a run at Garmin in the radar game, I’m not sure I would have picked Trek. But with its new Carback system, Trek comes closest to unseating Garmin from the taillight radar throne.

Overall, Trek’s Carback is a good product. The device offers solid detection, plus a few other very nice features that are upgrades over the Varia. Unfortunately for Trek, I don’t think the Carback beats out the Varia as the best product in the category, but it gives the category leader a run for its money.

Carback Details

Trek put a lot of thought into designing the Carback. Trek boosted the Carback's detection range from 460 feet claimed by the Varia to 790 feet (claimed by Trek) for the Carback. The brand switched from a 24Ghz radar to 77Ghz to accomplish this.

To support the more powerful radar, Trek installed a new 2,000 mAh battery, which provides the light a claimed 7-hour run time. However, in testing, I found the light’s run time closer to 8 to 9 hours, depending on the light mode used. The Carback has a very convenient LED light battery life gauge on the side of the device, something the Varia lacks. (Both lights also give you a low battery warning on your paired cycling computer.) The Carback charges with a USB-C plug, another nice upgrade from the Varia’s Micro-USB. The Carback and the Varia carry an IPX7 waterproof rating, and the lights are ANT+ and Bluetooth capable.

For mounting, the Trek Carback uses the same mount as Trek’s popular Flare RT series of lights. Basically, it is a rubber strap with Trek’s proprietary Blendr accessory mount attached. The best method to attach the Carback is directly to the saddle. If you ride with a Trek or Bontrager saddle, you can attach a Blendr mount directly to the shell with an adapter (sold separately).

A few places sell 3D-printed mounts and GoPro-style adapters to attach a Blendr accessory to various saddles and seatposts from other brands. If you want to move the Carback between different bikes, the rubber strap works fine., but I will eventually get annoyed with it, as I do with every other strap of this kind, and buy the right adapters for my bikes.

Side-by-Side Comparison to the Varia RTL515

I tested the Carback a few different ways. First, I rode with both the Carback and a Garmin Varia on my bike, each paired to a different cycling computer. I also rode quite a bit with a colleague, with one of us using the Carback and the other using the Varia. Finally, I did some back-to-back rides where I switched which radar system I used.

The good news is that the Carback is nearly as good as the Varia. And I recommend it to riders who already own the Flare RT lights and matching Blendr accessory mounts. It’s a no-brainer upgrade for these folks.

But there are two things that bug me about the Carback. First, Trek claims over a 71% improvement in detection range versus the Varia (790 feet vs 460). However, in real-world testing, this was not the case. In every scenario, either riding with both radar systems or riding side by side with a colleague, there was never any discernible difference between which system detected a car first. And in several instances, the Varia warned me of a car a second or two before the Carback.

Had Trek not claimed the greater detection, the Carback’s range would be at the same level as the Varia (which is great). But since the Carback only works on par with the Varia and not better (as claimed), I feel that Trek’s claims are somewhat misleading.

Second, the Carback lacks the variable light pattern of the Varia. When the Garmin detects a car, the Varia’s light pattern changes from steady red to flashing. Knowing that the Varia has another method to grab a driver's attention—short of slapping the cell phone out of their hand—that a cyclist is on the road is extra peace of mind for me. It’s a small detail, but it makes me always reach for the varia over the Carback.

I wanted to hear from Trek on both points and Alex Applegate, Trek's Electronics Marketing Manager, was kind enough to respond. “It was an intentional decision not to move away from our best and most visible flash pattern as cars were detected and approaching,” Applegate said regarding the lack of light pattern change. He also left open the possibility that this functionality might be added to the Carback.

Applegate also addressed the detection range question, “It is important to note that Radar requires line of sight, and in many cases, especially in city and suburban areas, the environment is the limiting factor.”

He continued, “Factors such as the crown of the road, curves in the road, and the angle of the rider and mount can all affect the line of sight and detection range. It is more common than you’d think for environmental factors to affect the range.” So, while I did not see an increased detection range in my extensive testing of the Carback, Trek is confident and fully stands behind its claim.

Final Thoughts

Trek produced a light and radar that functions almost equally to the Varia. And the Carback certainly is better than the other on-bike radar alternatives to Garmin. The Carback is slightly heavier than the Varia (86 grams vs. 72 grams). While it has less battery life, Trek’s nine-hour run time (compared to the Varia’s 16 hours) should be plenty for most riders. However, not needing to charge the device as often is convenient if you ride a lot.

Where the Carback improves on the Varia is with USB-C charging, which is almost a requirement for electronic accessories, especially at this price. Trek’s unit also has very easy-to-read battery life indicators. They are much more convenient than the Varia’s tiny little blinking LED, which is sometimes hard to see.

In the end, I can recommend both lights. If you already own Blendr accessories, going with the Carback is an easy choice. But because of the slimmer form factor or longer run time, the Varia still comes out a bit ahead. Plus, Garmin has the Varia RTL515 on sale right now for $50 less than the Carback, which makes it a no-brainer for anyone who doesn't already own a radar light. It’s nice when some competition can benefit the consumer.

Test Editor Dan Chabanov got his start in cycling as a New York City bike messenger but quickly found his way into road and cyclocross racing, competing in professional cyclocross races from 2009 to 2019 and winning a Master’s National Championship title in 2018. Prior to joining Bicycling in 2021, Dan worked as part of the race organization for the Red Hook Crit, as a coach with EnduranceWERX, as well as a freelance writer and photographer. 

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Trek Unveils ‘First Light’ Color Scheme for Olympics, Two Years In the Making

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Trek Bicycles will debut its latest ‘First Light’ custom color scheme during the Olympic Games.

Trek will seat more than 50 elite cyclists on top of a loud, electric design that pays homage to the Japanese hosts of the long-awaited 2021 Olympics. The new color scheme, dropping in just a few weeks, is bright and in-your-face, featuring a gradient that starts with a deep red, and then transitions through pink, gold, and blue.

The graphic wends its way up the bike, mimicking the hues of the sunrise emerging in the east. A purple-tinted Trek logo over the top brings it all together.

The design has been in the works since 2019 in anticipation of the original 2020 Olympic dates. Of course, Trek’s unveiling of First Light, like the Games, was postponed for a year due to the coronavirus pandemic. 

Trek ‘First Light’ Takes Flight

The First Light design is credited to Trek’s Senior Product Graphic Designer Micah Moran . Moran has spent the last year and a half dialing in his vision for the bikes that Trek hopes will see ample podium time when the Olympic games kick off this weekend.

Moran said he traveled to Japan in late 2019 to find inspiration for the project. But the design really came together for him as he stared out of the window on his return flight home.

“Japan is the land where the sun originates; the name means ‘the sun’s origin,'” Moran said. “These connotations that come from the meaning of the word Japan … each new day begins there, and here I was in a new day and seeing those colors, and that really was the moment it kind of clicked.”

But, considering the sheer number of countries and competitors headed to Japan and the wide variety of kits they will bring to the party, he said it was important to create something universal — and inclusive, too.

“I wanted something that was colorful enough to maybe not match, but match sometimes, and blend into all of the jerseys, all of the different colors, to not feel like it was too tailored to one thing or another,” he said. “Hopefully, ultimately, that’s what you see with the blending of all these colors [together].”

More From Trek: Project One ICON Paint Schemes

Olympians will be the first riders to show off the new design, but members of the public can also get their hands on it. The First Light color scheme is the latest in Trek’s Project One ICON series, which includes a collection of premium, complex paint schemes designed for riders who want a super-refined look. 

The schemes have gone through several iterations and currently include a reflective Chroma finish, bubbly Seafoam, shimmering Psychedelic Marble, and Gold Leaf.

Moran said the Project One ICON paint schemes require a lot more precision and detail than normal production colors. However, he felt that there was a place for high-end, detailed, and bespoke designs — a place where paint could really drive a bike’s appeal.

“Sometimes the design and the customization through your own choices is that driver, but I wanted something where I knew that there were some new paint technologies that I could bring into ICON that couldn’t be executed on just any normal bike, that you couldn’t put into (a) mainline.”

Trek has made the First Light color scheme available on the Madone SLR , Émonda SLR , and Supercaliber models.

Project One ICON paint schemes add $1,200-2,000 on top of the original MSRP of the bike, which starts at $7,000. (Other custom paint options range from $500 to $1,000.)

For the Olympic riders preparing to clip in and others who purchase a First Light bike in the next months, Moran said he hopes everyone who sees it understands how thoughtful and deliberate the design process was.

“Nobody’s going to put it next to another bike and say, ‘oh, it looks just looks like that other one,’” Moran said. “It’s completely unique, and hopefully, that inspires whoever is going to throw their leg over that bicycle.”

Learn more at Trek .

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Mark Wilson is a freelance journalist for GearJunkie and BikeRumor. Mark has been writing about cycling, climbing, outdoor events and gear for more than a year. Before that, he spent more than a decade as a journalist at major daily newspapers in Texas covering crime, public safety and local government. Mark spent every free moment during that time carving up singletrack and gravel, or climbing with friends and family in Texas, Colorado and Mexico. Based in Texas, Mark is always looking for new trails, crags and gear to help navigate the outdoors. As a new dad, he is particularly interested in learning how to share his love of the outdoors with his son.

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Green Deals

Save $550+ on trek e-bikes from $1,200, bluetti power station bundles hit new lows, vevor 16a to 40a ev chargers, more.

Headlining today’s Green Deals and leading the group into the weekend for Father’s Day, is a summer sale from Trek Bikes taking up to $550 off a large lineup of e-bikes, lead by the Electra Cruiser Go! Step-Over e-bike for $1,200 . It is joined by the Bluetti AC180 Portable Power Station with a 200W Solar Panel at a new $849 low , along with several other units that are hitting new low prices as well. Closing out this week is VEVOR’s 16A to 40A Level 1 and 2 EV Chargers that are starting from a new $93 all-time low . Plus, all the other hangover Green Deals that are still alive and well.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course,  Electrek ’s best EV buying  and  leasing deals . Also, check out the new  Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories .

Trek’s Electra Cruiser Go! e-bikes now $1,200

Trek Bikes has launched a  summer sale  that is taking  up to $550 off  a large lineup of the company’s popular e-bikes, like the  Electra Cruiser Go! Step-Over e-bike for  $1,199.99 shipped , or its  counterpart step-thru model  that is also going for  $1,199.99 shipped  – plus other e-bikes that are seeing general price cuts. Normally fetching $1,600, we have seen this particular model go for $200 less before, back during Black Friday sales, which hasn’t reoccurred since. In 2024 we’ve seen one previous discount that dropped costs to $1,200 in February, with today’s deal coming in to repeat the savings as a 25% markdown that saves you $400 and returns it to the second-lowest price we have tracked. For years we’ve been covering Trek Bikes’ many models, all of which you can  browse, read through, and learn about here.

The  Cruiser Go! e-bike  is an homage to the American beach-cruising classics of years past, equipped with a 250W rear-hub motor and a fully-integrated 250Wh battery that reach a max speed of 20 MPH for up to 40 miles on a single charge. It features mechanical disc brakes, fatter 27.5-inch tires for a smoother ride, and an LED controller that lets you monitor and change the e-bikes functions and settings. It also comes supported by the Trek Central app which lets you get pre-ride information such as battery levels before even heading out the door, as well as live performance levels, GPS mapping, and it even saves the information from your previous rides for future reviews.

More Go! 40-mile e-bike discounts:

• 20 MPH for up to 40 miles

More Go! 50+ mile e-bike discounts:

• 20 MPH for up to 65 miles
• 20 MPH for up to 100 miles
• 28 MPH for up to 50 miles

Bluetti AC180 Portable Power Station with 200W Solar Panel hits new $849 low

The official Bluetti Amazon storefront is offering up to 50% off discounts on its line of power stations, solar generator bundles, and accessories. A notable standout amongst the crowd is the  AC180 Portable Power Station with 200W Solar Panel for  $849 shipped . Usually going for $1,598, its been dropping to the same two rates since the start of 2024, first to $899 for the first few months and now more recently to the former $879 low, which today’s deal outshines as a massive 47% markdown that gives you a total $749 in savings and lands it at a new all-time low. You can grab the  power station alone for  $579 , or add a  B80 extra battery with it for  $1,148 , or get the  power station with a 350W solar panel for  $1,149 .

With the  AC180 power station , you can rest assured your charging and power needs are met on your next trip out of town or just the house thanks to its 1,152Wh capacity and 11 output ports: four ACs, four USB-As, one USB-C, one DC, and one wireless charging pad for your personal devices. It can be recharged up to 80% in just 45 minutes via a standard wall outlet or with a 500W solar input that takes just 2.8 to 3.3 hours (so with the included 200W panel, you’re looking at a recharge in around 7-ish hours, give or take). You’ll also be able to control the power station’s settings and keep track of charging levels on your tablet or smartphone via the BLUETTI app.

Notable Bluetti power station discounts:

• AC2A, 204Wh capacity:  $149  (Reg. $249)  | New low
• EB3A, 268Wh capacity:  $198  (Reg. $349)
• EB70S, 716Wh capacity:  $369  (Reg. $599)
• AC70, 768Wh capacity:  $429  (Reg. $669)
• AC200 MAX, 2,048Wh capacity:  $1,199  (Reg. $1,699)  | New low
• AC240, 1,536Wh capacity:  $1,399  (Reg. $1,899)
• and   even more…

Notable Bluetti bundle discounts:

• AC2A power station, 204Wh capacity with 120W solar panel:  $329  (Reg. $548)  | New low
• EB3A power station, 268Wh capacity with 200W solar panel:  $569  (Reg. $799)
• EB70S power station, 716Wh capacity with 200W solar panel:  $649  (Reg. $1,098)  | New low
• AC70 power station, 768Wh capacity with 350W solar panel:  $999  (Reg. $1,548)  | New low
• AC60 power station, 1,209Wh capacity with B80 extra battery:  $999  (Reg. $1,398)
• AC180 power station, 1,958Wh capacity with B80 extra battery:  $1,148  (Reg. $1,798)
• AC200L power station, 2,048Wh capacity with two 200W solar panels:  $1,899  (Reg. $2,999)
• and  even more…

VEVOR’s 16A to 40A Level 1 and 2 EV Chargers start from new $93 low

Amazon is offering the  VEVOR 16A Level 1+2 Portable EV Charger for  $92.69 shipped . Down from its usual $130 price tag, since the new year began we haven’t seen much diversity in its discounts, often falling to the same $105 rate on average, which does beat out the $125+ rates from 2023, though the price hasn’t fallen lower past $100. Today’s deal, however, finally breaks the slow and steady progression for a sharp and sudden spike downwards as a 29% markdown that lands at a new all-time low.

Compatible with both NEMA 6-20R and NEMA 5-15P plugs,  this 16A (maximum) portable EV charger  is suitable for EVs that adhere to the J1772 standard and could use a handy backup charger when out on the road far from home. Its controller automatically adjusts the current according to the charging status to avoid overcharging, while also providing lightening, leakage, grounding, over-voltage, under-voltage, overcharge, over-current, and overheat protection. You can control and monitor the charging status remotely through the Smart App, as well as schedule charging time for 1-12 hours, letting you take advantage of off-peak charging and reduce your vehicle usage costs. Package also includes a hard-shell storage bag, a base, a charging cable hook, and an adapter.

Of course, I’m sure most of you, like me, saw the 16A maximum output of the above charger and immediately thought “I’ll be waiting so much longer for a full charge.” Well, Amazon has also cut prices on the  VEVOR 40A Level 2 Portable EV Charger that is now at  $133 , down from $200. This upgraded model features a similar LED display, as well as the smart chip that provides the same list of protections as the above model. You’ll also get the same smart controls – especially for off-peak hour scheduling – and it arrives compatible with vehicles and plug-in hybrids that comply with the J1772 standard, requiring only a NEMA 14-50 outlet to plug the charger into. The main difference here is the obvious increase in amperage limit, with this model able to reach 40A while charging over the previous model’s 16A.

Summer e-bike deals!

• Super73 RX Electric Motorbike: $2,600 (Reg. $3,695)
• Vanpowers UrbanGlide-Ultra e-bike: $2,299 (Reg. $2,499)
• Lectric ONE Long-Range e-bike with $220 in free gear (pre-order): $2,199 (Reg. $2,419)
• Juiced JetCurrent Pro Foldable e-bike (pre-order): $2,074 (Reg. $2,799)
• Lectric ONE e-bike with $220 in free gear: $1,999 (Reg. $2,219)
• Blix Packa Genie Cargo e-bike with $237 in free accessories: $1,899 (Reg. $2,099)
• Aventon Abound Cargo e-bike with $894 in free accessories: $1,799 (Reg. $2,199)
• Blix Sol Eclipse Cruiser e-bike with $207 in free accessories: $1,699 (Reg. $1,899)
• Blix Ultra Fat-Tire All-Terrain e-bike with $383 in free accessories: $1,599 (Reg. $2,099)
• Rad Power RadWagon 4 Cargo e-bike: $1,599 (Reg. $1,799)
• Retrospec Koa Rev+ Fat-Tire e-bike: $1,499 (Reg. $1,799)
• Vanpowers UrbanGlide-Pro e-bike: $1,399 (Reg. $1,899)
• Retrospec Valen Rev Fat-Tire e-bike: $1,300 (Reg. $1,699)
• NIU BQi-C3 Pro e-bike: $1,299 (Reg. $2,200)
• Lectric XPeak Off-Road High-Step e-bike with $349 in free accessories: $1,299 (Reg. $1,648)
• Lectric XPeak Off-Road Step-Thru e-bike with $349 in free accessories: $1,299 (Reg. $1,648)
• Lectric XPress 750 High-Step e-bike with extra battery (pre-order): $1,299 (Reg. $1,799)
• Lectric XPress 750 Step-Thru e-bike with extra battery (pre-order): $1,299 (Reg. $1,799)
• Rad Power RadRover 6 Plus Fat-Tire e-bike: $1,199 (Reg. $1,599)
• Rad Power RadRunner 2 Utility e-bike: $1,199 (Reg. $1,399)
• Hover-1 Altai Pro R500 e-bike: $1,162 (Reg. $2,300)
• Vanpowers UrbanGlide-Standard e-bike: $1,099 (Reg. $1,299)
• Vanpowers City Vanture Urban e-bike: $1,049 (Reg. $1,749)
• Schwinn Ridgewood Electric Mountain Bike: $800 (Reg. $1,500)
• Schwinn Ingersoll Electric Hybrid Bike: $700 (Reg. $1,500)
• Schwinn Mendocino Hybrid Electric Cruiser Bike: $699 (Reg. $1,700)

Other new Green Deals landing this week

The savings this week are also continuing to a collection of other markdowns. To the same tune as the offers above, these all help you take a more energy-conscious approach to your routine. Winter means you can lock in even better off-season price cuts on electric tools for the lawn while saving on EVs and tons of other gear.

• Father’s Day gift ideas – Electric Tools: Update Dad’s DIY arsenal with mowers, trimmers, washers, and more from $20
• Enjoy your favorite BBQ when you crave, Pit Boss’ 5.5 Pellet Smoker now at new $550 low (Reg. $660)
• Let the algorithm handle lawncare with Worx’s Landroid robot mower starting at new $579 low (Save up to $601)
• UGREEN’s 1,024Wh PowerRoam 1200 portable power station hits new $599 low (Save $400)
• Lectric XPeak Off-Road e-bikes back to all-time $1,299 low, plus more up to $400 off in Father’s Day sale
• Unlike your kids, Husqvarna’s robotic Automower 115H actually wants to cut the lawn – now over $100 off
• Get a compatible charge almost anywhere with Rexing’s Tesla to J1772 EV charger adapter at $100 (Reg. $160)
• Jackery takes $80 off its new Explorer 600 Plus portable power station for short-term $419 low
• Savor the flavor while saving $200 with GE Profile’s smart indoor smoker at $799
• Juiced’s new JetCurrent Pro foldable e-bike hits new $2,074 low in anniversary celebrations (Reg. $2,799)
• Save $400 on Anker’s SOLIX C1000 portable power station at new $599 low, more from $130
• MOD BIKES summer sale is taking up to $1,000 off e-bikes for all of June starting at $1,499
• Anker’s latest SOLIX C800 Plus portable power station with LED camping lights returns to $499 low
• Keep your yard looking vibrant with Rachio 3 smart 4-zone sprinkler controller back at $99 low, more from $66
• No more ice runs needed with Anker’s EverFrost 33L portable cooler at return $599 low ($200 off)
• Velotric Father’s Day sale takes $200 off Fold 1 e-bike with accessory bundle at $1,199, more from $1,299
• Lectric launches new XP Lite 2.0 folding e-bike with up to $246 in free accessories starting from $799

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Finland scrambles to close new migrant route via Russia to Europe

• Medium Text

• Finland plans tough new measures to deter asylum seekers
• Finns accuse Russia of funnelling migrants across border
• Moscow denies assertion, says Finland and NATO to blame
• Syrian friends recount how they reached border by bike

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Reporting by Anne Kauranen in Helsinki and Riham Alkousaa in Berlin, additional reporting by Andrius Sytas Editing by Gareth Jones

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Thomson Reuters

Riham Alkousaa is the energy and climate change correspondent for Reuters in Germany, covering Europe’s biggest economy's green transition and Europe’s energy crisis. Alkousaa is a Columbia University Journalism School graduate and has 10 years of experience as a journalist covering Europe’s refugee crisis and the Syrian civil war for publications such Der Spiegel Magazine, USA Today and the Washington Times. Alkousaa was on two teams that won Reuters Journalist of the year awards in 2022 for her coverage of Europe’s energy crisis and the Ukraine war. She has also won the Foreign Press Association Award in 2017 in New York and the White House Correspondent Association Scholarship that year.

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Crew evacuated from vessel hit by Houthis, search for sailor continues

The crew of a Greek-owned vessel damaged in an attack by Yemeni Houthi militants has been evacuated and the abandoned ship is drifting in the Red Sea, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations and a Philippine minister said.