I'm starting to see that there are a lot of things to consider for a headlight. I definitely get your point in regards to short-distance lighting as well as long-distance lighting. On an ebike, you want to have a decent distance illuminated in front of you; however, if you don't have to sacrifice one for the other, that is ideal. As I consider these issues, this is what I'd like to find in a light (in no particular order):
1) Adjustable settings. It'd be great to have strong light for a good distance in front of you, but to also be able to turn the setting down if you are in a more populated area and don't want to blind pedestrians or others.
2) Light-weight. The Cree light you mentioned is one and a half pounds. That's a significant weight.
3) Reliable mounting. People seem to love that Cree light you mentioned, but many absolutely hated the mount. One person had the battery come off and end up in the front wheel, and allegedly destroyed the bike.
4) Warning sensor for low battery.
5) Ability to see both long distance ahead and shorter, more immediate area, with some light for seeing things to the side.
I'm going to research a lot more, but I like this one for looks and very lightweight:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...ue&ref_=ox_sc_act_title_2&smid=A3A1TUMP1POVI6
This is the USD version of the Solar Storm that RoyL mentioned, and the reviews say it gives off pretty good light and has versatile settings:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...ue&ref_=ox_sc_act_title_1&smid=A2L411JIUGX01S