Whilst other manufacturers limit their StVZO lamps to a well-behaved 500 lumens, Lupine is entering the race with the SL Grano F, a front light that should inspire even ambitious gravel racers and night riders. With 1100 lumens in high beam mode, the compact lamp pushes the performance limits in the category of approved bicycle lighting. The low beam delivers 900 lumens and remains completely glare-free.
With an output of a whopping 130 lux, Lupine's SL Grano F literally puts the competition in the shade. The range of 230 metres makes even expensive battery-powered headlights look pale. Lupine utilises the tried and tested optics of the SL Nano and combines them with a two-stage dipped beam control. The integrated brightness sensor automatically switches between daytime running light and dipped beam - a function that is often still missing from the competition.
Lupine SL Grano G - Info & Price
- Light output1100 lm (high beam), 900 lm (low beam)
- Reach: 230 m
- Illuminance130 lux
- BatteryLithium polymer, 2.3 Ah, 17 Wh, 7.4 V (integrated)
- Lighting duration1.5 h (maximum brightness), 12 h (daytime running light)
- HousingAluminium CNC milled (6061-T6), black anodised
- Weight: 170 g
- OperationBluetooth remote control, button on the housing
- Charging connectionUSB-C : USB-C
- Protection classIPX6 (water resistance), IK09 (impact resistance)
- Special featuresHigh beam; Automatic daytime running light with brightness sensor; StVZO approval; GoPro mount installation
- Scope of deliveryLamp head, Lightcase S, Bluetooth remote control, charging cable (selectable)
- Price: 269 Euro
CNC housing with IPX6 and GoPro mount
The milled aluminium housing weighs 170 grams and is protected from scratches by a black anodised finish. IPX6 waterproofness and IK09 impact resistance should ensure reliable operation even under the toughest conditions. A GoPro mount on the lamp head allows space-saving installation under the bike computer - a detail that sets the SL Grano F apart from the often clunky competitor products.
The SL Grano F can be operated either via the button on the housing or via the Bluetooth remote control supplied. The latter uses Bluetooth Low Energy and enables switching between daytime running light, low beam and high beam directly from the handlebars. If you combine the light with the new Red Light Pro BT, you can now also control the front and rear lights together.
Lithium-polymer battery with 17 Wh capacity
The integrated lithium-polymer battery has a capacity of 17 Wh at 7.4 volts and 2.3 Ah. In daytime running mode, the light should last for twelve hours; in the brightest mode, the juice lasts for around one and a half hours. Charging takes place via USB-C - either with a USB-A or USB-C cable. Lupine also offers a "Longrunner" cable, which enables longer journeys without stopping to charge.
While conventional StVZO lamps with permanently installed rechargeable batteries often only achieve half of their original light duration after just two years, Lupine relies on long-lasting cells. According to Lupine, they only use quality cells - a difference that should be noticeable after hundreds of charging cycles.
High beam makes the difference
The switchable high beam sets the SL Grano F apart from many other StVZO lamps. Where classic front lights reach their limits on unlit country roads, the SL Grano F switches up to 1100 lumens. This makes bends, potholes and deer crossing visible earlier. Lupine uses the SL Nano optics, which have already proven themselves in other models. The aim is to achieve homogeneous illumination that eliminates dark spots and harsh transitions.
The second low beam level further extends the usable range. While the first level is sufficient for city traffic, the second level provides more range for fast descents or poorly lit cycle paths. You can switch between modes using the Bluetooth remote control without having to take your hands off the handlebars.
Stefan Frey
Editor
