Cateye Econom EL-540 Rechargeable Front Light.

Cateye's EL540 is a viable alternative to dynamos for commuting and utility riding round town and in the sticks. Don't be fooled by the slightly quaint looks and AA Nimh power source, cutting edge technology squeezes every last ounce from the single LED and it's powerful enough for navigating unlit backwaters by. Forgetful types will be reassured by the fact the cells can be swapped for common or garden alkaline types without impairing performance. However, at 258g it'll be a touch hefty for some and consumes a fair bit of handlebar real estate into the bargain.

The EL540 employs what's known as reverse offset lens (ROL) technology, which allows 95% (ten per cent over and above conventional designs) efficiency of the light emitted. Look closely and the LED is mounted, facing backwards and towards the reflector, which projects the beam forwards. Popping off the angular shroud gives easy, tool-free access to the battery tray and internal components. Typically Cateye, materials and construction are top-notch so there's no danger of batteries and similarly sensitive components being jolted around over rough roads and towpath.

Charge times are quoted as between five and seven hours, although in practice ours has gone from zero to hero in a matter of four, denoted by an indicator integral to the thumb friendly rubberised switch turning from red to green. Easily operated in gloved or bare hands, it toggles between high, low and flashing without accidentally engaging when lolling about in a pannier.

The lens projects a square, rather than circular patch of light, devoid of halos or similar interference, explaining how I was able to navigate unlit sections and alleys with such ease, managing 20 or so mph on clear stretches round town and 18 rural. Peripheral visibility is deceptively good too, a crisp beam bleeding outward and warning others of my approach when negotiating the junctions and roundabouts. Flashing is again very effective, albeit in the be seen rather than see by sense-although a godsend should the low battery indicator start winking and resorting to dry cells isn't an option Run times have been near as dam it faithful to those quoted even with the stock batteries, so you'd be very unlucky to get caught short.

Verdict

Brilliant commuter lamp for town and around if you're not overly pressed for handlebar space.