With the Aura 170 HB Link, Sigma is adding a new top-of-the-range light to the Sigma Smart Series, offering for the first time a high-powered light with a genuine high beam. The Aura 170 HB Link is aimed at cyclists who regularly ride in the dark and need more than a standard everyday light. This includes commuters, road cyclists, gravel cyclists and e-bike riders. Whilst basic cycle lights are primarily designed to ensure the rider is seen, the Aura 170 HB Link is also intended to provide better visibility of the route ahead. The switchable high beam extends the field of vision and is particularly useful on dark roads and paths.
Specifications and features of the Sigma Aura 170 HB Link
- Maximum light output: up to 170 lux in high-beam mode
- High-beam function: High beam to extend the field of vision
- Instructions: separate handlebar-mounted remote control
- Automatic brightness control: Adjustment of light output to suit the ambient conditions
- App integration: Control and management via the SIGMA Ride app
- System integration: Integration with compatible SIGMA rear lights and radar systems
- Can be expanded with: HIRO rear lights and RECO LINK radar rear light
- Price: 169.95 euros
What’s the point of having high beams on a bike?
The low beam of a bicycle light is primarily designed to provide balanced illumination. It is intended to make the area in front of the bicycle visible without unnecessarily dazzling oncoming road users.
The high beam serves a different purpose. It extends the rider’s field of vision along the route and can help them spot obstacles, bends, uneven surfaces or junctions sooner. This extra visibility can be a practical advantage, particularly at higher speeds. The Aura 170 HB Link activates the high beam via a separate remote control on the handlebars. This means the rider does not need to reach for the light whilst riding. Switching between normal light and high beam can be done directly from the riding position.
When is a bike light with a high beam worth it?
A bicycle light with a high beam is not essential for every situation. In urban traffic, street lighting and other light sources often mean that a compact front light is sufficient. A high beam becomes particularly useful in the following situations:
On unlit country roads
On country roads without street lighting, visibility can quickly become limited. This is particularly true when travelling at higher speeds or on stretches of road with tight bends. Using full-beam headlights can help you to better assess the course of the road ahead.
On forest and country lanes
Roots, potholes, branches and bumps are often difficult to spot on dark paths. A longer range can help you spot the ground ahead sooner and adjust your speed in good time.
On the daily commute
Anyone who cycles to work early in the morning or late in the evening is familiar with changing light conditions. The route often takes you from a well-lit urban area onto dark cycle paths or side streets. In such situations, flexible lighting is particularly useful. The Aura 170 HB Link can be used in normal mode and switched to high beam when required.
On road bike and gravel rides
Road cyclists and gravel cyclists often cover long distances where lighting conditions can change rapidly. A powerful light is particularly useful in such situations, especially if the ride extends into the evening or takes you through remote areas.
For e-bike riders
E-bikes often allow for higher average speeds and longer distances. This makes good lighting all the more important. The Aura 170 HB Link’s high beam can help the rider keep a better view of the road ahead, even at higher speeds.
Automatic brightness control for changing lighting conditions
The Aura 170 HB Link is not just designed for maximum light output. A brightness sensor enables an automatic mode that is intended to adjust the light output to the surroundings. This is particularly useful when frequently moving between bright and dark areas. The advantage lies in the simpler operation. The rider does not have to constantly switch manually between different light levels. At the same time, it is still possible to switch on the high beam specifically using the handlebar remote control.
Using full-beam headlights correctly
Full-beam headlights should primarily be used on dark, clear stretches of road. As soon as oncoming traffic appears or other road users could be dazzled, you must switch to a lower beam.
To ensure safe use, there are therefore a few important points to bear in mind:
- The light must be securely attached to the handlebars.
- The beam of light should be adjusted to suit the route.
- You should switch off your full-beam headlights in good time when there is oncoming traffic.
- The light output should be adjusted to suit the speed and the surroundings.
A high lux rating alone does not guarantee perfect illumination. The shape of the light beam, the width of the illuminated area and the range are also crucial factors.
The Aura 170 HB Link as part of a networked lighting system
Sigma’s new flagship lamp is not intended as a stand-alone product. It is part of the Link Series, which is designed to connect the various components. Using the Sigma Ride app, users can, amongst other things, check battery levels, adjust lighting modes, pair devices and carry out firmware updates. The app is thus becoming the central hub of the lighting system.
When used in combination with a compatible Hiro rear light, the front light can form part of a coordinated lighting system. When supplemented by the Reco Link radar rear light, it also provides warnings of approaching vehicles.
Price and classification
SIGMA is positioning the Aura 170 HB Link at a price of 169.95 euros as the top-of-the-range model in the new Smart Light Series. This places it well above basic front lights designed for urban traffic, whilst also offering more features:
- switchable full-beam headlights
- Handlebar-mounted remote control
- automatic brightness sensor
- App integration
- Integration with other lighting components
- Integration into a radar and lighting system
Whether the investment is worthwhile depends on how you intend to use it. If you only make short journeys around town, you probably won’t need the extra features. However, if you regularly cycle in the dark, over longer distances or at higher speeds, you can benefit from this combination.
Conclusion from the editor’s perspective
The Sigma Aura 170 HB Link demonstrates how cycle lighting is evolving from a simple safety accessory into a versatile assistance system. Its greatest strength lies in the combination of high beam, automatic brightness control, handlebar remote control and app connectivity. The high-beam mode can offer a real advantage, particularly on unlit country roads, forest tracks and longer commutes. It provides a clearer view of the road ahead and adjusts the light output to suit the situation, without the rider having to take their hands off the handlebars. At the same time, the Aura 170 HB Link is not a light designed purely for off-road use.
The key factor will be how intuitively the individual functions work together in everyday use. If the remote control, auto mode, app and radar operate reliably and genuinely take the strain off the rider, Sigma will have a compelling top-of-the-range model in its range with the Aura 170 HB Link. Stefan Frey, BIKE editor
Stefan Frey
Editor