With the changeover from summer to winter time, the days are getting even shorter and after-work rides in the light are almost impossible. Those who do serious off-road night rides usually have a bright spotlight. As most people don't live in the forest, a rear light is recommended for the approach and departure. After all, the real dangers are not lurking on the trail - the grizzlies are already in hibernation - but on the road. After all, very few drivers expect to see bikers in the dark in winter. The rear light quickly becomes life insurance. We present five bicycle rear lights that make the way home from the trail safer. Like most of the rear lights shown here, many battery-operated lights also have a flashing function in addition to continuous illumination. This is not permitted in Germany or Switzerland; only in Austria are the lights allowed to flash in road traffic.
Lezyne Strip Drive Pro
The Strip Drive Pro light from Lezyne fits snugly on the seat post. With its five LEDs arranged one above the other, the spotlight offers a high level of safety. Depending on the mode, it illuminates with up to 100 lumens. In addition to static modes, the rear light can also flash. Not a bargain at 50 euros, but very bright.
Light & Motion Vis 180 Micro
The American rear light is the only light in our test field to have a second LED that shines on both sides. This allows the rear light to cover 180 degrees and offers a particularly high level of safety. Although the angle of the bracket can be adjusted, it is not as solid as the lights from the competition. For 40 dollars, you get a lot of safety on the road.
Moon Chameleon
The Moon rear light can change colour faster than its namesake - the Chameleon. Depending on your mood, the colour of the light can be matched to the colour of your clothing, simply shone in red or colour-blocked. The ring of 15 Multiclour COB LEDs shines with a maximum of 20 lumens and has 14 modes. The small lamp costs 34.95 euros and offers many functions at a low weight.
Smart USB Taillight
The Smart USB Taillight has two 0.5 watt LEDs that light up or flash in four different modes. The screw-on holder is solid and the light itself is large. It is also clearly visible from the side. The all-rounder costs 32.90 euros.
M-Wave Apollon Mini A
The Apollon mini lights come in a set. For 11.90 euros, you get a minimalist front and rear light. The two lights can either flash or light up continuously. At 29 grams each, they are quite light despite their aluminium housing. Great for travelling through tunnels on Alpine crossings!
A large lamp test with 13 models from Sigma, Lezyne, Knog & Co. can be found in BIKE 12/2016 - on newsstands from 2 November. You can read the issue in the BIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or in the DK shop order:
