Is There a Quality Hardwired E-bike Headlight?

[6zfshdb]

I usually use a self powered, handlebar mounted bike headlight (Outbound Lighting Trail EVO), but don't always carry it on every ride. If I don't think I'll need it, it's just another accessory to mount before starting out. Last week, I took an evening ride and lost track of time. It got dark before I realized it and was forced to use the pitiful OEM light on the bike. It took forever to get back and it was an unnerving ride on a rough trail.

As a result, I'm now looking to upgrade totally inadequate OEM light with something brighter. That way, I can turn it on and off with the bike display and leave it permanently mounted. I'll likely need a relay, since the OEM wiring is just 20 gauge. The bike has a 12V power supply, so the light could be either 12V or 52V if I wire it direct.

Any recommendations for a quality hardwired light? I've searched extensively, both here on EBR and online, but most I've seen are cheap with poor reviews. I've even considered automotive and even lights for tractors. I don't mind spending a few extra $$ for one that will hold up to rough trail riding.

 

[Gionnirocket]

I'm sure there must be something to fit your needs.... have you looked at motorcycle lights?
Another alternative could be a light bar with 3 bike lights set up in a tight fan pattern.

I'm using this basic variable voltage input light with 300 lumens and it fits my needs and has been dependable. I rarely ride at night, especially on an unlit trail.

https://www.aliexpress.us/item/2255800061116763.html?spm=a2g0o.order_list.order_list_main.52.75a21802gVebUm&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa

 

[Gionnirocket]

Harbor Freight actually has a wide selection of off-road lights with good reviews.

https://www.harborfreight.com/lighting/automotive-lighting/flood-lights-spot-lights/off-road.html

 

[BlackHand]

Do you know how many watts your motor's light output can feed?


Lupine makes quality lights

E-Bike Lights | Bicycle Lights - Lupine Lighting Systems

Lupine's e-bike lights feature sensor-controlled daytime running light with traffic-friendly low beam up to 2800-lumens. Shop ebike lights now!

www.lupinenorthamerica.com

 

[Gionnirocket]

Do you know how many watts your motor's light output can feed?


Lupine makes quality lights

E-Bike Lights | Bicycle Lights - Lupine Lighting Systems

Lupine's e-bike lights feature sensor-controlled daytime running light with traffic-friendly low beam up to 2800-lumens. Shop ebike lights now!

www.lupinenorthamerica.com

Wow, those are nice.... but do they provide lubrication at checkout?

 

[stompandgo]

Supernova make some of the best. It's the reason they are chosen as OEM lights by manufacturers. They are not cheap. They all work within the limitations of e-bike motor light circuits.

Magicshine is another high quality light, but it would have to be adapted to your motor.

You need to find out the maximum wattage draw for the lighting circuit on your motor, and choose a light that draws less than that.

 

[BlackHand]

Thanks, I didn't realize Magicshine offered hardwired lights too.

 

[CanNik]

No.

That's why 99.99% use proper ones

Powerbank, USB, and great light I have 2

BIKIL Bike Lights Set Front and Back, USB C Rechargeable 6400 mAh Super Bright 2400 Lumen Bicycle light,Easy to Install Bike Headlight and Taillight Combinations,Road and Mountain Cycling Light : Amazon.co.uk: Sports & Outdoors

Shop BIKIL Bike Lights Set Front and Back, USB C Rechargeable 6400 mAh Super Bright 2400 Lumen Bicycle light,Easy to Install Bike Headlight and Taillight Combinations,Road and Mountain Cycling Light. Free delivery and returns on all eligible orders.

www.amazon.co.uk

 

[6zfshdb]

Do you know how many watts your motor's light output can feed?


Lupine makes quality lights

E-Bike Lights | Bicycle Lights - Lupine Lighting Systems

Lupine's e-bike lights feature sensor-controlled daytime running light with traffic-friendly low beam up to 2800-lumens. Shop ebike lights now!

www.lupinenorthamerica.com

No, it isn't published anywhere I can see. It can't be much, since the wire looks to be the size of a human hair.

 

[6zfshdb]

Do you know how many watts your motor's light output can feed?


Lupine makes quality lights

E-Bike Lights | Bicycle Lights - Lupine Lighting Systems

Lupine's e-bike lights feature sensor-controlled daytime running light with traffic-friendly low beam up to 2800-lumens. Shop ebike lights now!

www.lupinenorthamerica.com

I'm looking for some serious light, in the neighborhood of 1000+ lumens. I doubt my controller & wiring will handle that kind of wattage.

I'm considering this one from Lezyne:

E-BIKE CLASSIC HB StVZO E1000+

E-BIKE CLASSIC HB StVZO E1000+ LED front light for E-Bikes with StVZO compliance, Hi/Low Beam, remote switch, IPX7 waterproofing, and BOSCH BES3 compatibility.

ride.lezyne.com

It has a remote switch, which will save me the trouble of rigging a relay to use the display. It uses 12V and I can power it with the 12V buck converter I already have on the bike. Big $$ though, but might be worth it for the near plug & play setup.