This light is almost bright enough to use as a single source for night riding, although I wouldn't advise it.It's best use is for when you want to be seen at night, because the blinking mode really is quite bright. In the regular non-blinking mode, it has a tightly focused beam with a bit more diffusion than previous models, so you'll see the beam and a bit of what surrounds the main focus area of the beam, and it seems to have more power than previous models too.But, in my opinion, it isn't strong enough or bright enough to light a large enough area ahead for safe night riding.I use it in addition to the Topeak Moonshine Commuter light.Using both systems together, I get a really nice centrally lit area and a well lit larger area that greatly adds to my ability to see objects ahead.In addition, by using two light systems, I have a backup if one goes out.(I have a 13 mile night commute and I can tell you it isn't fun to do it in the dark.)
The light comes with an easily installed mounting bracket and the light is easy to attach and detach from the bracket.It is the same mounting system used by the previous models so if you have the old bracket you can use it to switch the light between two bikes.Also, it requires 4 AA batteries but they seem to last a long time.
So, the light is great for being seen, just don't expect it to be good enough as a sole source of light for safe riding at night.I really like this light when used in combination with a second system or for short night rides of maybe 1 or 2 miles.But for longer rides at night or frequent night commutes, I'd suggest you get a more powerful system.
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Product Description:
Fifty percent brighter than Cateye's HL-EL510 model, this extra-bright one-LED white headlight generates 1,200 candlepower thanks to Cateye's OptiCube technology that optimizes lens and reflector brightness. The headlight also can be set on high or low beam. It runs on four AA batteries. Other features include side visibility and a tool-free mounting bracket.
About Cateye
Founded in 1946 in Osaka, Japan, CatEye is the leading manufacturer of cycle computers, lights, and reflectors to cyclists in the world. In 1964, CatEye was the first in the industry to create a flashing lamp for bicycles, followed by their first battery headlamp in 1982, and the very first bicycle head lamp using white LEDs in 2001. The company's Opticube lens and reflectors make the brightest and most efficient LED headlights. while their LD500 remains the only rear safety light that can meet the rigorous CPSC standards for reflectivity.
