Amazon LF 36 bike light review: Affordable front light for aero handlebars

Our verdict on the LF 36

​The Amazon LF 36 bike light set is an affordable solution for commuters and road cyclists. It scores points for its secure mounting and the GoPro adapter. However, buyers will have to make some compromises when it comes to light output and battery life, particularly on dark and fast training rides.

Smart: the built-in GoPro mount

With modern aero handlebars, attaching accessories is often more difficult than on round handlebars. Many mounts offer little space, cables are routed internally, and traditional rubber bands do not always stay in place securely. The LF 36 therefore relies on a combination of a handlebar mount and the included GoPro mount.

The adapter significantly expands the range of possible uses: anyone who already uses a compatible front mount beneath their cycle computer can position the light centrally and neatly. In terms of ease of use, the Amazon light scores 2.3, whilst the mount scores as low as 1.5. This means the headlight sits securely in the test and is straightforward to fit.

The set also includes a rear light with a brake light function. However, this was not assessed in this comparison. The BIKE rating relates exclusively to the front headlight.

Photograph showing flaws in front of the front wheel

In terms of light pattern, the LF 36 achieves a score of 3.0. The even illumination is a particular highlight: the beam appears uniform, making it easier to follow the course of the road in the dark. The light therefore provides useful guidance when driving on lit roads and in urban traffic.

However, illumination remains limited in the immediate area directly in front of the front wheel. Particularly on uneven back roads or when travelling at higher speeds, there isn’t quite enough light to spot potholes, kerbs or debris in good time. This shortcoming is more of an issue for sporty training rides on dark country roads than for the daily commute to work.

Short charging time, average battery life

The built-in battery has a capacity of 1200 mAh. The LF 36 It offers three lighting modes and, in tests, achieved a runtime of 2 hours and 25 minutes. This means that battery life is not one of its strong points. Anyone who regularly goes on long evening rides should check the charge level before setting off or recharge the headlamp in good time.

This happens surprisingly quickly: the light takes 2 hours and 20 minutes to fully charge. The charging time is therefore on a par with the measured runtime. The battery level indicator is less impressive. The single indicator switches from green to red, but only provides a rough guide rather than a precise estimate of the remaining runtime.

Overall package: clearly budget-oriented

BIKE awards the build quality a score of 2.0. The headlamp makes a solid impression, without standing out from the rest of the test field in terms of material quality or user interface. Its strengths lie in what’s included in the package and in how easy it is to attach to the front mount, rather than in maximum light output or particularly long battery life.