AT A GLANCE: COMMUTING COMBINATIONS AND COMMUTING LIGHTS

AT A GLANCE: COMMUTING COMBINATIONS

Michael Stenning's Brief Guide .... then read more, if you wish ... Reviews of some of this year's range to follow shortly.

Urban Commuting

100-250 lumens up front and15-20 rear; look for decent peripheral presence. Several, distinctive settings, side windows and 180/360 degree lenses prevent “stealth” moments or them being drowned out by competing street illumination.

Night Rider Lightning Bug front bicycle light

Suburban to Semi Rural

200-400 up front (rear as urban). Some are brighter than others but 350-400 lumens are best, if you fancy taking in semi rural roads. However, the higher settings can put a serious dent in run times. Expect 60-90minutes tops. SOS mode can be a godsend should reserves hit critical.

Brighter bike mounted LED rear with a decent lens and at least two modes cater for most scenarios. Better still; pair it with a micro model.

Sticks

Main lamp 600 lumens plus, capable of delivering full power for 2hrs plus; 3 blinkies - one up front 2 rear; 70 lumens plus have some advantages but 30-40 potent enough.