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SEVEN DAY CYCLIST
CYCLING, BUT NOT USUALLY RACING
LATEST UPDATE NOVEMBER 10th 2025
HOW DO WE REACH THE OVERALL RATINGS FOR PRODUCTS WE REVIEW?
Sigma Buster 1600 & RL150 Light Set
233g complete £134.99
Sigma Buster 1600
The Sigma Buster 1600 & RL150 are a potent pairing, definitely up to the darkest lanes and also cope surprisingly well along unlit trails. In keeping with other, high power rechargeable models, run times in the highest modes are modest. However, there's a good useable range keeping them practical for long steady miles and the flashing functions are both bright and frugal. A remote would make the 1600 user friendlier and though it hasn't been problematic through the test period but IPX4 feels low rent alongside sometimes cheaper competition.
Pros: Good beam patterns, sensible range of modes for most riding environments, reliable user-friendly mounts, solid construction.
Cons: No remote, IPX4 for weatherproofing, modest run times in the highest settings.
Specification
Starting with the RL1600, this is a six-mode model pumping out a maximum of 1600 lumens. Two Osram LEDs are projected through “an innovative double lens with two different optics”. In other words, one producing a familiar and very effective mix of spot and flood for general sweeps and picking out the detailing. These are fuelled by a Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery.
The housing is a sturdy aluminium/composite mix, the former serving as a heat sink to protect the diodes, battery, switchgear and circuitry from damage. Again, though very sturdy, on paper it might feel low rent compared with the fully CNC machined options we've been testing over the past few seasons. There's also as thermal cut out that will kick the light down to (lumens) should the light exceed 60 degrees, say if you've forgotten to turn the light off at a rest stop, or having returned from a ride. Though not unduly so, it can get a little hot to touch, so be mindful if you've been running it in the higher settings for an hour, or so and are whipping it off, say when locking up, or to charge.
Then of course, there's the usual memory mode defaulting to the last selected. IPX6 is increasing the norm, especially on lights aimed at gravel audiences. IPX4 in the real-world sense means heavy rain. However, I'm pleased to report no issues and the plug port's a snug fit, although the odd precautionary shot of silicone spray here doesn't hurt.
Modes & Switch 3.5/5
This leads me nicely to the modes. The steady modes taper down to 1000, 500 and 150 lumens, there's an 800 and 400 lumens night flash and a 200 lumens day flash. The switch is a sensibly firm top mounted design. A deliberate double press engages the light; subsequent single prods course through the modes. It can also be locked to prevent unwanted engagement when bouncing around in bike luggage, or rucksack. Some suggested they found the sequencing confusing - I personally found it intuitive, going from the highest steady modes in singular prods, a double prod selecting the flashing options. Nonetheless, it can be cumbersome, if you’re entering different environments, although no more so than some competitors without a remote switch.
The charge life indicator is a little different but very precise and easy to understand at-a-glance. Fully fuelled all the five LEDS are bright white, denoting 18% charge apiece. When reserves tumble to 20% the lowest will turn red. It will start flashing when you're down to 5% and automatically kicks down to conserve juice and hopefully mean you can get home before it tanks completely. There's no port for a power bank, which might be a consideration if you're prone to getting caught out.
The battery level indicator is really good. When fully charged all five LEDs light up in white, with each level representing roughly 18% of charge. Then when you're down to 20%, the bottom indicator turns red. When it starts to flash you have around 5% left. The light does, however, automatically reduce the output levels to maximise battery life when it's running low on juice. I found this display really clear and easy to understand.
Now, while there's no app, it is possibly to manually tweak the settings to choice, meaning you can stick to a cluster of modes e.g. steady, or flashing. These are straightforward to select, but you'll still want to spend some time familiarising yourself before heading out. Wireless remotes are becoming increasingly standard and though not a deal breaker, it seems a missed opportunity, even if doing so added a few quid to the asking price.
Mount 3.25/5
Given the increasing popularity of Garmin types, the Sigma's might seem a little dated. (There's also a helmet mount, should you prefer).
However, I'm pleased to report its positively vice-like and offers leach-like tenure to a wide range of diameters, from 22.2 and 25.4 through to 31.8, courtesy of the supplied shims. A drop of oil on the quick release threads during assembly and periodic checking tightness should keep things happy. The light slides into position with a satisfying click and releases with similar finesse-just ensure you've pressed the little tab while you're doing so.
Output 3.75/5
Impressive across the board. For context, 1300lumen dynamo lamps are my default for unlit roads. The beam pattern has, as I indicated been very effective for most environments, although anecdotally, Ravemen LR1600 had a slight edge on the roads.
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​Unleashing the full 1600lumens gives sufficient bite for navigating unlit forest trails and unmade roads to around 20mph and with decent view of conditions ahead. In common with similarly powerful lights, it tended to put rabbits and squirrels into a state of flux, which in turn kept my bike handling skills sharp.
I've found the 1000 lumens generally coped with unlit country roads to around 18mph, so I've switched to the full 1600 when wanting to really blast along the backroads and scream down the descents. However, while the beam projection is good, I've been careful to nudge down to 1000 to avoid dazzling.
True to claims on clear nights and before sunrise, solitary truckers and farm workers reckoned they could pick me out at 200 metres, dipping to 140 or so with the 100 lumens. Dawn onwards, it's about being seen and though arguably overkill for built up areas, I've found the night flash's hybrid beam brilliant, conserving some juice into the bargain. Loosely speaking, friendly acquaintances reckoned they could pick it out at 125 metres on misty mornings. The flashing modes are uniformly good, I’ve defaulted to the night flash at dusk and dawn, since the tempo is very extrovert but steady enough that other traffic focused and identified me as a cyclist, rather than a wildly flashing object.
Round town, the 200lumen day flash offers a distinctive tempo, assertive but without being abrasive, although I've gone for the 500 steady when tackling bigger roundabouts on the outskirts of town. Peripheral punch is surprisingly good, presumably down to the lenses’ properties and beam projection, although the Sigma decals also allow light through, which was most noticeable in the flashing modes.
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Staying with the 500, some have suggested its good enough for general road riding. I'd go with that, at least between suburban and semi-rural environments, although it gives options, should you need to conserve power.
No issues with remaining conspicuous to other traffic. 150lumens is another setting that will serve well enough in well-lit town centres and shared use paths and sips reserves, although on balance the 200-day flash got my vote.
Charge/Run Times 3.5/5
Using the OEM charge cable, zero to hero took 3 hours, although using the USB C from my tablet and fuelling from the mains brough this down to 2hrs 40. Run times in temperatures between 14 and 5 degrees have been within 7 minutes of those cited, which is close enough, taking everything into account. I should also mention the battery had 80% charge when I popped it from the packaging.
Care/Durability 3.5/5
As I reported earlier, no issues in the real world. I've deliberately left ours in situ while giving bikes a good sudsy bucket wash, been out in moderate to heavy rain for a few hours with no issues, or hint of ingress around the charge port, although the odd, cursory squirt of silicone spray on the port cover won't hurt. The odd stone thrown up by the front tyre has scored direct hits without leaving any calling cards, which is similarly reassuring. As with similar lights, the lithium-Ion cell will manage 300-500 charge cycles before there’s a dip in performance. Keeping the lithium-ion cell regularly charged at room temperature and not habitually depleting it will give the best chance of a long and productive life.
Value 3.5/5
Viewing this as a standalone light, Sigma RL1600 is a solid choice. However, there's a lot of choice. For starters there's The Ravemen LR 1600 . Both are excellent comparators, although the Ravemen features a wireless remote and IPX 6 for weather proofing. However, as a standalone, it’s also a bit dearer at £115. Blackburn Day Blazer 1500 is £89.99. It produces 1500 lumens, meets IPX67 for weatherproofing and has a lifetime warrantee. However, there’s no remote and the “watch strap” type mount isn’t nearly so secure.
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Moon Rigel Max is £89.99 another six-mode model producing a maximum of 1500 lumens. At 48x92x27mm is more compact than the LR1600 and features an intelligent brightness mode (so you can tune the light’s modes to suit your needs/riding contexts) and stop/start sensors. It also meets IPX7 for weatherproofing and a Garmin type mount may also curry favours. However, there’s no remote and the anti-dazzling lens lacks the performance of others.
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Moving away from the more traditional torch type designs, Magicshine EVO 1700 Underneath Mounted Bike Light represents excellent value. It comes complete with a wireless remote, offers 1700 lumens, a similarly sensible spread of modes and a car-type “cut off” beam, Garmin type mount and IPX6 for weather resistance. As I frequently say, numbers are only part of the picture. However, if you didn’t need this kind of output, Magicshine HORI 1300 produces 1300lumens, can be synced with other lights in their range, meets IPX6 for weatherproofing. The wireless remote is super convenient. However, the beam pattern lends it best to road duties and the mount’s not included.
Sigma RL 150
The RL150 is a six-function compact model with five lighting modes and a “braking” function. The 150 lumens refers to the very effective day flash, further amplified by the “braking” function that kicks in for three seconds once it detects you’re slowing. While overall presence is impressive and the dimensions are perfect for clutter-phobic best bikes, I would’ve preferred a mid-point, say 15 lumen in the low steady and maybe a 10lumen flashing and being picky, the ability to turn the braking function off would be similarly welcome.
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Pros: Compact, effective modes for most contexts, generally good run times, user friendly, secure, versatile mount.
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Cons: Braking function cannot be disengaged.
Specification
Measuring 34x50x38mm the RL150 bucks the trend for Chips On Board (COB) technology using two Osram diodes, through a sturdy composite lens for a very accurate projection. This is theoretically further amplified to 280 degrees by the side windows. In common with the Buster 1600, it feels reassuringly solid and though “only” meeting IPX4 for weatherproofing, has resisted heavy rain and muddy blasts with similar aplomb. Internally its fuelled by a (grade) Lithium ion Cell and charges via USB-C cable. .
Mount 3.5/5
The shell is a monocoque design, which angles the light precisely and tethers via lugs and a stretchy “watch type” strap. I’ve had no issues fitting to seatposts between 25.4 and 31.8 diameter, seat stays and box section trailer tubing. Other watch type straps proved compatible-welcome if you’re prone to losing or breaking them. I should mention a longer version is also available.
Switch and modes 3.5/5
The top-mounted power switch features an integral “traffic light” charge life indicator for easy, at a glance cues. A double prod powers up and subsequent prods cycle through the modes. Memory functions are pretty standard these days, but I love the ability to hop on and scoot off. Powering down is a matter of depressing for 1-1.5 seconds. I found this counter intuitive initially, but adapted quickly.
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There are five in total, two constant - 40 and 5 lumens and three flashing - 150 lumens day flash, 25 lumens night flash and a 5 lumens eco-flash.
Output 3.75/5
Met my expectations, given the numbers cited. The 150-lumen day mode has been really effective, even in very bright September sunlight, further enhanced by the braking function that senses slowing and pumps out an intense boost for three seconds. More about that later. Otherwise, passing riders (yes, does happen from time to time) suggested they could pick the light’s tempo out from 150 metres, further when dusk, or mist were present.
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I’ve gone through the village without nudging down and a neighbour following in their car reckoned they could spot it at 300 metres on a clear night. The 25-lumen designated night mode is up to the job of maintaining presence along unlit country lanes, especially with the braking function amplifying things. Other riders reckoned they’d spotted it at 100metres, and I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the presence at junctions and generally entering the flow of traffic.
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This has seemed consistent, regardless of whether it’s been tethered to the seat post, rack, or seat stays. While the 25 lumens might seem a little overboard for built up areas, it seemed to stop short of rubbing folks up the wrong way. On balance, I’d go for the 5lumen flash, which has more presence than the numbers suggests - helped in no small part by the braking function, which kicks in more frequently, given the ebb and flow of traffic and sips battery into the bargain.
As for the constants, while these can’t match the outright punch of the flashing. However, the full 40 has plenty of presence for pitch black lanes-150 metres some reckoned. Not what you’d want to be eyeballing on a group ride, especially since you can’t turn off the braking function. Down to the 5lumen steady you go. This is still passable through town, especially given the peripheral bleed and braking function, but being slightly picky, I can’t help thinking a 10lumen option would’ve been a better fit. Similarly, despite the output, I’d be inclined to go for something with a bigger surface area on a trailer, or tagalong.
Charge/Run Times 3.5/5
Using the stock charge cable, zero to fully fuelled meant three hours, although using that from a tablet and refuelling from the mains shaved 20minutes off. Talking of which, run times have been close to those cited, although varies dependent on ride duration, gradients, load etc. Riding regular routes, I returned within 8 minutes of those claimed, although this dropped by 15-20 with trailer and 10 kilos trundling behind. Mercifully, the charge life indicator gives a sporting chance of getting home without being plunged into darkness.
Green denotes 100-40%, orange 39-20, red 19-5%. Flashing red means you’re dipping below 5% (kick down).
Care/Durability 3.5/5
Despite being IPX 4 rated for weather resistance, ours has been subjected to wet road, trails and left in situ when given bikes a good sudsy bucket purging. Never missed a beat, to date. On balance, I’m not sure I’d run it on a low slung, Yak type trailer, where the light’s a little too close to potential submersion but that would go for any light with an IPX4/5 rating. Ours has had the odd direct hit from mud encased stones and similar-no calling cards and the mounting strap is also in rude health. I might give this, and the charge port cover a squirt of silicone-based spray every so often, but other than keeping the light clean, coupled with regular, disciplined charging, there’s no obvious reason it shouldn’t lead a productive life.
Value 3.5/5
£29.99 when purchased separately, it represents solid value for money but there’s a couple capable of giving it a good run for your money. MagicShine See Mee 180 Bike Taillight V2 is now £29.99 produces 180lumens and boasts a braking and an ambient light sensor, adjusting output to suit conditions. It also complies with IPX6 for weatherproofing. Ravemen TR100 USB Rechargeable Rear Light has impressed with its range of modes, rugged build quality and IPX6 for weatherproofing. However, it only produces 100 lumens, doesn’t have a braking function and a long (5 hour) charge time may also be a turn off. Lelumia The Beast is another model producing a maximum of 150 lumens. It enjoys a very large surface area and a good selection of modes. However, it may be a little overpowered for those who primarily ride in urban contexts, there’s no braking function and it only meets IPX4 for weather protection. Steve was impressed by Moon Sport Helix Pro 150 Rear Light . It also produces 150 lumens, features a motion sensor, so will switch off and reengage when it senses you’ve stopped and re-engages when sensing movement. It also meets IPX7 for weatherproofing. However, there’s no brake light.
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High power sets are less common these days. However, this combination is £15 cheaper than the Knog Blinder 1300 & Blinder R150 Light Set. Aside from the obvious 300lumen discrepancy, the front’s run time is only 1.5 hours, and it tapers down to 650 lumens, which might be too great a jump for some. The R150 has 9 modes and a closer range of modes, which may also be a draw if you’re primarily looking for a road set and aren’t needing to navigate the darkest roads for long periods. There are a couple that are considerably cheaper - we’ve not tested them, so can’t comment, or otherwise make real-world comparison.
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The Gaciron RAPTOR-1800 Ultra High Lumen Bike Front Light & LOOP-100 Smart Brake Bike Taillight comes in at £68.34. The 1800 lumens front light has six modes (1800, 900, 800, 400, 100-50 lumens and a 600 lumens day flash). A remote comes as standard, there’s a power bank plug in and the outer (review to follow) is made from CNC machined aluminium. The Loop 100 is also made from CNC machined aluminium alloy. There’s a 100 lumens brake mode, 100lumen “fog” modes and 30, 15 and 5 lumens.
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Ravemen LS34 £104.95 is a combination of the K1400 front and CL06 rear light (which in my experience, is more potent than the numbers would suggest. The K1400 boasts 1800 lumens, IPX7 weatherproofing, an AI “intelligent” sensor that adjusts to suit lighting conditions. There’s also a wireless remote and a choice of mounting options. In common with the Knog, there’s quite a big dip between the highest and medium modes and run times in the highest mode (1.5 hours cited) won’t suit those wanting to navigate pitch black roads for prolonged periods).
Summary
I’ve reviewed these separately as they’re also available individually. The Sigma Buster 1600 and RL150 are very competent lights that represent particularly good value as a paring and decent value, bought individually. Outputs are impressive and crucially there’s a good range of modes for most riding conditions. While I’ve had no issues in the real world, the IPX4 rating for weatherproofing means I’d recommend them more for road duties, rather than wet, boggy trail antics. If the latter is your primary riding environment, there are several, better choices and save a few quid into the bargain.
Verdict: 3.5/5 Worthy light set with modes catering for most conditions but face stiff competition and a wireless remote would be welcome.
Michael Stenning
PUBLISHED NOVEMBER 2025
