Review of rechargeable lights for road bikes: 7 models for aero handlebars

TOUR has tested seven StVZO-approved rechargeable headlights specifically for this purpose. The decisive factors were not only light output and battery life, but also the quality of the light pattern, ease of use, build quality and the front mount bracket. This is because, particularly during fast training rides on dark country roads, the beam must illuminate both the immediate area in front of the front wheel and the road further ahead. Furthermore, in accordance with Section 67 of the StVZO, the headlamp must be adjusted so as not to dazzle oncoming traffic.

The seven test participants

• Amazon LF 36 Bicycle Light Set >> available here
• Busch & Müller Ixon Rock >> available here
• Cateye GVolt 80.1 >> available here
• Lezyne Macro 500+ Front Reverse >> available here
• Lupine SL Grano F Silver Edition >> available here
• Sigma Aura 100 with Out-Mount front holder >> available here
• Trelock Lighthammer 100 USB Set >> available here

Rating table: Rechargeable spotlights for front-mount cockpits

Lupine sets the standard, but costs considerably more

The Lupine SL Grano F Silver Edition came out on top in the test with a TOUR score of 1.7. It achieved the best scores in the test for build quality and mounting – 1.0 in each category – as well as the best light pattern score in the comparison. The GoPro mount, which is integrated directly into the aluminium housing, eliminates the need for additional adaptors and positions the light neatly beneath the bike computer mount. Even on rough tarmac, the 170-gramme light remains stable.

Its beam spreads evenly from close range right out to the distance. The high beam also offers a practical advantage for regular night-time rides and fast descents. However, these technical specifications come at a high price of 269 euros. Furthermore, the measured burn time of 2 hours and 35 minutes is not best-in-class. For keen cyclists who frequently train in the dark and do not want to compromise on beam pattern or fit, the Lupine is nevertheless the clearest choice.

Busch & Müller and Trelock: each with their own strengths

The Ixon Rock from Busch & Müller achieved the second-best overall score of 2.0. Its strength lies in its balanced, uniform light pattern, with particularly good illumination directly in front of the front wheel. The five-level battery indicator provides precise information on remaining charge, whilst its handling is rated 1.5. The runtime of 3 hours 10 minutes is well-suited to longer training rides.

The key point regarding Aero cockpits: an additional mount is required for suspended mounting on the GoPro arm. This increases the total price from 99.90 to 119.80 euros. If you factor in this cost, you get a well-designed light with good close-range illumination and clear battery information.

The Trelock Lighthammer 100 also scores 2.0. The top mark of 1.0 for the mount confirms its suitability for a neat lower control arm fitting. The run time also scores highly, at 2.0. The light pattern scores a solid 2.4, but the Trelock only achieves a 2.3 for handling. Its strengths therefore lie primarily in its practical integration into the cockpit and its battery life, rather than in ease of use and beam precision. The set offers four brightness levels, a five-stage battery indicator and a GoPro mount.

Four practical solutions for everyday use, starting at 79 euros

The Cateye GVolt 80.1 and the Lezyne Macro 500+ Front Reverse share fourth place with a score of 2.1. The Cateye impresses with a top mark of 1.0 for its mount and a precise four-stage battery indicator. Its high-beam is bright and even, and the runtime of 3:05 hours is sufficient for normal evening rides. The main drawback is the long charging time of 4:10 hours; furthermore, the battery indicator is partially obscured when the light is mounted.

The Lezyne stands out thanks to its metal casing, evenly lit near and far ranges, and a well-designed bayonet mount for the GoPro. At 3 hours and 15 minutes, it delivers the longest measured runtime among the leading models in the test. However, weighing in at 145 grams, this headlamp is one of the heavier models; the four-hour charging time is rather long; and the green-red indicator only provides a rough estimate of the remaining battery life.

The Sigma Aura 100 follows with a TOUR rating of 2.2. Its light pattern shows no noticeable dark spots, the mount also receives the top rating of 1.0, and the four-stage LED bar makes it easier to plan charging. Its weaknesses lie in the comparatively short runtime of 2 hours 40 minutes and its merely average range. For commutes, after-work rides and training rides in the shoulder seasons, the Sigma nevertheless remains a sensible, comparatively affordable option.

The Amazon LF 36 bike light set comes in last in the test with a score of 2.6. On the plus side are the affordable price of 36.99 euros, the included GoPro adapter and the good mounting score of 1.5. The light illuminates the road evenly, but leaves something to be desired in the immediate vicinity. At 2 hours 25 minutes, the measured runtime is on the short side, and the simple green-red indicator provides only a rough estimate of the battery level. The set is suitable for lit paths, city traffic or as an affordable solution for occasional twilight rides; however, it is only of limited use for fast night-time rides on dark roads.

Conclusion: The mount is a key factor

These seven battery-powered headlamps demonstrate that modern road and gravel bike handlebars can be fitted with the right mount. This requires a GoPro mount compatible with the relevant cycle computer mount, and a bracket that positions the headlamp securely and as centrally as possible beneath the stem.

The Lupine SL Grano F is the most technically advanced light in this comparison. Its very even light pattern, high-beam function and integrated mount justify its top ranking, though it may not be within every budget. The Busch & Müller Ixon Rock impresses with its precise battery indicator and good close-range illumination, but the front-mount solution comes at an extra cost. Trelock offers a long battery life and excellent integration into the handlebars, but falls slightly short in terms of handling.

Cateye and Lezyne are well-rounded alternatives with excellent mounting systems. The Sigma Aura 100 is ideal for cyclists looking for a tried-and-tested light with a clear battery indicator and an affordable front-mount solution. The Amazon LF 36 offers the lowest entry-level price, but has the most significant limitations in terms of runtime and close-range illumination.