One23 Extra Bright rear LED

Kirk to Bridge… Err, perhaps I’ve been watching too many episodes of Star Trek but One23’s rear led is strangely reminiscent of the US Enterprise with a quaint profile and adjustable bracket but performance outstrips many twice the price. Simple, weatherproof and remarkably solid construction and with batteries available on pretty much every street corner it’s an absolute bargain but care is required when tensioning the universal mounting bracket to prevent it exploring strange new worlds…

The simple hard plastic casing feels slightly brittle compared with the latest generation of soft-shell designs but seems remarkably hardy while a Philips head screwdriver allows precise focus of the ratcheted bracket. The lens is a comparatively large affair with good peripheral illumination, making best use of the single Led. Top trumps style performance figures were strangely absent, but watts, lumens and candlepower aren’t always the best indicators of real world performance the one performance claim that is made is that One23 that visible at up 1,000 metres.

Positioned vertically along the seatposts makes best use of the large surface area without compromising a lightweight’s aesthetic grace, although while it presents a beautifully rich trail of red-light, visibility’s closer to 750 metres in flashing and 600 steady along rural roads-maybe 800 and 650 respectively on a crystal clear night with some inter-planetary help. Nonetheless, this is plenty even on the darkest night and isn’t easily drowned out by neon shop fronts and similar illumination.

Access to the batteries is through a simple twist and snap closure coin-slot etched into the side. Stout weather seals sandwiched between the two parts of the light provide excellent defence against water, silt and general ingress through town and trail alike but the mudguard averse would be well served by a slither of silicone grease on the contacts through the wetter months. A positive, colour coordinated switch is easily operated in winter gloves and while lacking the refinement of some, doesn’t readily engage in the bottom of bags, panniers or pockets.

Verdict

Exceptionally bright rear light with a bargain price tag.