LED

Bigger in some cases is certainly better and very apt when describing RSP’s new Tourlite. Designed to bolt directly to the rack platform, it might be portly but the half- watt LED flanked by two smaller units and integral reflector pack a mighty punch. Raleigh claims it’s visible from a mile and friendly acquaintances suggest this is no idle boast.

There’s no questioning Light and Motion’s Vis180 wow factor with its thirty-five lumens producing a “Ready Break” cocoon of light around rider and companion-perfect for winter training, utility riding or commuting with trailers/tag-alongs. However, you’d expect something pretty special from an Led costing the best part of £100.

This light is tough, waterproof and highly effective, with enough runtime that you won't get caught out even on longer night-time rides.

So far as I can tell, this is a rebadged version of the RSP Asteri 3 that Big Dave tested back in March. He gave it the thumbs up and who am I to argue with a man who has been through more lights than Blackpool Illuminations?

This Onethelight 900-lumen headlight from Spokeshirts is a very bright light, and not an expensive one either. If you're just looking for bangs per buck, then it should be up there on your wishlist. It's not perfect and there are little niggles, but overall it's a good performer for the money.

Nite Rider’s MiNewt 150 cordless could be the ultimate commuter/training lamp for those wanting high power without the clutter and faff of external battery systems. Lifetime warranty covers mechanical defects while the lithium ion battery can be charged either from the computer USB or mains socket thanks to a sensible adaptor. That said the twin lamp MiNewt Cordless 250 comes with helmet mount as standard and has the edge if you’re looking for adventures sans asphalt.

You’re going to like these Magicshine lights, I did. I’m getting this test report out as quick as I can because, you might need to strike something off the Christmas list and convince yourself or your significant other, that you need a present just like this.

Light & Motion Visa 360 is beautifully made, a delight to use and when all’s said and done, worthy of the asking price. 140lumen output outstrips many mid range bike mounted systems but Light & Motion have ensured this prowess doesn’t have the effect of blinding oncoming traffic. Run and charge times are practical for most commuters and 135g neither feels cumbersome or encroaches on rider freedom. However, the Visa is designed to compliment rather than substitute bike mounted systems and though genuinely visible from 360 degrees, blind spots were still possible when turning the head far left/right.