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Problems with

John Harland

BICYCLE .!.~ ~ VICTORIA ~~( vic roads J~ Problems with Bicycle Lighting

A report of practical on-road tests of bicycle lamps available in Australia in 1989

by John Harland B Agr Sc, Dip Ed

Bicycle Victoria

for the Roads Corporation of Victoria

Melbourne 1990 Contents

Executive summary 3

Why this report? ~ the problem 4 - lack of data - low usage of lamps - reflectors not enough - lamps not bright enough - most lamps inadequate - research needed Choice of lamps 5 - what lamps were tested - criteria for choice Testing 5 - method - testers - duration of testing - termination of tcsting Laboratory tests are not enough 5 - simulation vs. reality - on-going tests needed Results 6 - general - mountings - installation and instructions - focussing problems - durability - corrosion of terminals - mixing systems Background to the recommendations 8 Acknowledgements 8 Key to ranking of the lamps 8 Bibliography 9

Appendix; the individual lamps - An Lun halogen set (i) - An Lun non-halogen (ii) - AXA halogen head lamp (ii) - Basta battery head and tail lamps (iii) - Byka Electronic hybrid set (iii) - Berec Nightrider battery taillamp (iv) - Cateye 200 battery taillamp (v) - Cateye 200 battery headlamp (vi) - Cateye 300 battery head and tail lamps (vi) - Cateye 500 Halogen battcry headlamp (vii) - Cateye 600 battery headlamp (vii) - Cateye 700 battery headlamp (viii) - Eveready Junior Dolphin battery taillamp (viii) - Sanyo Dynapower set (ix) - Union UlOOH halogen set (ix) - Union S70 taillamp (x) - Wonder Trial battery head and tail lamps (x)

Problems with Bicycle Lighting by John Harland, J 990. p.2 Executive summary

User tests of bicycle lighting Importance of this study Recommendations Over half the cyclists killed on Victorian This is a report of the effectiveness of As a result of this study, it is recom­ roads in 1988 were killed at night, mended that: bicycle lamps in actual usc by although only 5 - 10% of is done experienced cyclists. Tests were carried at night. Most of the fatalities were in (1) the Standards Association of out between July and September 1989 of circumstances which strongly indicate Australia amend the Australian Standard, Lighling equipment for bicycle lamps then commercially that the cyclist was simply not seen. available in Australia. The tests were pedal cycles to include: performed by members of the cyclist Although it is law in Victoria that bi­ (i) standardised mounting screws and organisation Bicycle Victoria. The study cycles ridden at night must have a lugs on lamps and ; was funded by the Roads Corporation of headlamp and taillamp, few cyclists (ii) standardised lamp mountings on Victoria. comply with this law. Reasons for the carriers, especially racks; lack of lamps are: Test procedures * a lack of public awareness of the (iii) standardised mounts for lamps Twenty-one types of lamp were tested importance of bicycle lighting; and generators on bicycle frames; comprising 11 and ten tail­ are sold without lamps; * (iv) prefocus globes for all bicycle lamps. * bicycle lighting regulations are rarely lamps, including the taillamps of enforced; lighting sets; Two samples of each lamp were tested * the poor quality of available lamps as wherever possible, and a total of 7500 shown by the tests reported here. (v) taillamp output intensities kilometres and 400 hours of testing in comparable with those of motor vehicles; normal use was undertaken over a twelve If bicycle riders are to be safer at night, week period. there is an urgent need for bicycle lamps (vi) reliable connectors; to be bright, reliable, easily fitted, Results reasonably priced, and readily available. (vii) scratch-resistant plastics, or glass, for head and tail lamp The results are of COncern. The tests Otherwise, bicycle riders will not bother lenses; showed that most of the lamps are fragile, to buy and fit lamps to their bicycles. difficult to fit securely to the bicycle, and (viii) instructions sufficient to allow unreliable. The brands and types of lamps on sale in installation to any normal bicycle Australia are constantly changing, by a person with limited technical Bicycle lamps should last for years of making it difficult for either Bicycle knowledge; regular usc, yet many lamps deteriorated Victoria or the Roads Corporation to rec­ badly in the test period, and several failed ommend any specific lamps to the public. (2) the Standards Association of totally. Australia include fitment of lamps in This study was performed to provide the Australian Standard for pedal cycles; Specific findings were: the information needed by cyclists for * mounting problems the selection of suitable bicycle lighting (3) the Roads Corporation conduct unsuitable mountings research into cyclist conspicuity, inadequate instructions A study such as this should be repeated including the role of bicycle lamps; each year, to keep up with changes. This * aiming problems (4) the Roads Corporation repeat the will be especially vital in the period of lack of instructions present study of the effectiveness of rapid change likely to follow the publica­ bicycle lamps in 1991; poorly designed mountings tion of the Australian Standard Lighling * lack of durability equipment/or pedal cycles in 1990. (5) the Roads Corporation conduct cyclist * corrosion of terminals education programs, on the impor­ * focussing problems with Miniature tance of being seen; (MlO) globes (6) the Roads Corporation discuss with softness of the plastic used in lenses * Victoria Police ways that the enforce­ * hazards in mixing different dynamo ment of existing bicycle lighting laws systems may be improved;

In summary, the bicycle lamps available (7) the Roads Corporation discuss with in Australia at present are inadequate for Victoria Police ways of recording safe, reliable use on bicycles at night. whether lamps were present and in use on all bicycles involved in nighttime crashes.

Problems with Bicycle Lighting by John Harland, 1990. pJ Why this report? - the problem

Cyclists killed at night Another major deterrent to lamp usage is Most lamps are inadequate the poor quality of available lamps. This Over half the cyclists killed on Victorian was the major finding of this report, and This report has not revealed any roads in 1988 were killed at night. (9 out is also mentioned by Bijma (1988) and excellent, or even good lamps. It has, of 17; VicRoads statistics.) McInerney (1984). however, illuminated several previously unrecorded problems. The longer term average is lower. In the Reflectors not enough years 1981-85 it was 23% (Hoque, Most critically, the best of the battery 1987), but that is still disproportionately Work by in England (1984a) taillamps were unreliable and exhibited high. Only five to ten percent of cycling strongly suggests that retro-reflectors mounting problems. is done at night (Noordzij, 1976; Parker alone are not as conspicuous as lamps 1982) so the nighttime fatality rate is other than at short distances. Also many Battery taillamps have a superior light several times the daytime rate. conditions of bend, crest or dip in the output (to a dynamo lamp), and they stay road place the cyclist out of the headlamp alight when stationary. The lack of a beam of a motorist, and unseen if retro­ good taillamp is a critical safety issue. Sketchy data reflectors are the sole conspicuity aid. A good taillamp could be built with no Records are not routinely kept in Victoria Many cyclists believe that retro-reflectors new technology at all, by combining of whether or not bicycle lamps were alone are sufficient for nighttime cycling. design features from the lamps tested. present or in use in bicycle crashes. The Australian Standard for pedal cycles Hoque (1987), however, suggests that reinforces this misunderstanding by Research needed around 90% of nighttime cyclist fatalities specifying retro-reflectors, but not lamps in Victoria in the years 1981-84 were of on all new bicycles. In many collisions, motorists claim that cyclists with no lamps at all on their they didn't notice the cyclist they hit. bicycles. This lack also reinforces the notion in Conspicuity has been a major concern of people's minds that a "normal" bicycle cyclist organisations over the years, Most nighttime fatalities (86% in doesn't have lamps. (e.g. Mathieson and Coin, 1989; Mc­ Hoque's report) are by impact from a car Carthy, Mathieson and Coin, 1986; hitting either from immediately behind or Not bright enough McInerny, 1984; Parker, 1981, 1982; from the right rear quarter. This type of Peace, 1982, 1988; Shepherd, 1987; collision is rare (about 10%) during From early 1990 Australia is to have a Taylor, 1982; Walker, 1981; Wiecks, daytime, and strongly suggests that the Standard for bicycle lamps. The 1985). Government efforts however cyclists were not seen at night. minimum brightnesses specified in the have emphasised secondary safety and standard however bear no apparent largely ignored cyclist conspicuity. Unlit roads are greatly over-represented relation to any research results on in nighttime cyclist crashes, as are roads conspicuity, or to motor vehicle lamp Cyclist conspicuity needs much more with higher speed limits; (75 km/h or 100 brightnesses (SAA, 1990). km/h). Both are circumstances where one research, in Australia and elsewhere. The issue is complex. Being seen, being might predict bicycle lamps to be most Zwahlen (1981) stressed the need forthe useful for being seen. noticed, being recognised and being bicycle to be seen in heavy, mixed traffic, rangeable all need to be evaluated in all and not just in isolation. Thus all conditions of light and of obscurity (fog, vehicles in traffic need lamps of rain and so forth). Lamps not used comparable brightness. Research for the Geelong Bikeplan Usage rates oflamps in Australia are very Bijma (1988) goes further; maintaining (1977) indicated crashes to be six times low, and falling. Taylor (1982) found that bicycles need brighter taillamps than as likely in rainy as in dry weather. This that 50% of nighttime cyclists have no motor traffic because of the much higher may be due to visual obscurement (espe­ operable lamps, and half of the remainder closing speeds of motor vehicles and ciallly smeared car windscreens) and dull have a headlamp or taillamp alone. By bicycles, than two motor vehicles. lighting conditions. 1989, Mathieson and Coin found that usage rates for lamps had dropped to The best of bicycle taillamps tested, and As almost all nighttime fatalities appear onlylO%. those stipulated in the forthcoming to be due to not being seen, and that in Australian Standard are much dimmer daytime it is almost certainly a major Lack of enforcement of lighting regula­ than those of motor traffic factor also, conspicuity research and tions is a major factor in this low usage. education could have the greatest A marked contrast is seen in the Nether­ In this study we were able to make some potential benefit in crash reduction. lands, where lamp usage rates are very observations of headlamp output but had high (Noordzij, 1976; Van der Plas, 1978) to rely largely on Standards compliance, and where enforcement is rigorous (British or DIN) as a guide to the sup­ (Noordzij, 1976; Groot, 1988). posed adequacy of taillamps. This area urgently needs research.

Problems with Bicycle Lighting by John Harland, 1990. p.4 Choice of lamps

Most lamps tested were those that had Sanyo Dynapower set The Union U70H is seemingly the only shown acceptable photometry in tests by Union UlOO H halogen set lighting outfit to meet the standards Technisearch (1982), and which were Union S70 dynamo taillamp applying in all the major countries in commonly available in Melbourne shops. Basta head and tail lamps Europe. It could not be found in the Lamps available subsequent to the Tech­ Berec Nightrider taillamp shops, however; apparently not being im­ nisearch tests were included if they Cateye HL & TL 200 ported currently. appeared to offer light output comparable Cateye HL & TL 300 to the laboratory-tested ones. Cateye ilL 700 The Ultralight D-size would have been Cateye HL 500 halogen included, but again it could not be located Specific lamps and lighting sets Eveready Junior Dolphin taillamp at the time. An Lun Halogen set Wonder Trial head and tail lamps An Lun (non-halogen) headlamp The Sanyo Mountain Bike set was not AXA Halogen dynamo headlamp included because it was incapable of Byka hybrid powering a taillamp.

Testing

The testers Records were kept of: This is expected to reveal longer-term - installation procedure; problems. For instance the first signs of All the testers were regular night riders. - distances and times ridden at night; intermittency due to corrosion became As far as possible they were people - replacements and maintenance needed; evident only at the end of the test period. without any special experience or - performance of the lamp in use. technical expertise. This creatcd a Each tester had the use of the lamp for dilemma, because regular night riding of At the end an overall assessment was the entire test period. This was to better necessity engenders expertise through the done for each lamp or set represent normal use, to eliminate any exigencies of maintaining the bicycle special care, or any unusual damage that lamps available in Australia. Where feasible, the two examples of each might accompany changeovers. lamp went to people with different riding Infrequent night riders may have shown habits. This could only be done to a Termination of testing some problems more clearly, but would degree because people's choice of lamp have taken much longer to complete the reflected their riding habits. In several Termination of testing was due to: testing, and the quality of reportage is cases particular lamps were rejected by - Failure or destruction of the lamp(s) likely to have been lower. testers due to the impracticality of fitting - Dissatisfaction with the performance them to the tester's bike. - The lamp or dynamo giving rise to a Method dangerous situation, such as falling into Duration of testing the or appearing likely to do so. Testers were instructed to use the lamps as they would their own. As far as The testing was from July until Septem­ Several of the battery lamps will not be possible testers were given the usc of ber 1989, a period of 12 weeks. This was further tested because their testers do not lamps they would have chosen sufficient only to reveal the most wretch­ feel that the lamps give enough light for themselves, or were about to buy. edly poor design and durability. The test safety. Some testers were only prepared is continuing in those cases where the to test the battery lamps if they could The lamps were not in any way torture tester is happy with the lamps. continue to use their own, more powerful tested, but were treated as carefully as if systems alongside the test lamps. they were the testers' own. Laboratory tests are not enough

Laboratory results (Technisearch, 1982; laboratory simulations, there is a need to * overload failure of globes of dynamo Jenkins and Francis, 1986) had ranked test bicycle lamps in everyday use, at lamps at speed; quite highly lamps which had given poor regular intervals. * water seepage onto the collimating results on the road. reflector destroying its reflectivity; Examples of on-road failure of lamps * corrosion of terminals. Laboratory simulations can only reveal have been caused by: what we design them to reveal. They * fatigue failure of mounts; Only some such factors are replicable in need to be backed-up with actual * quick-releases letting-go; the laboratory, even when they are experience. Even with the best * switches too easily switched on known. It is only through user experience accidentally, draining the battery; that they become known.

Problems with Bicycle Lighting by John Harland, 1990. p.5 Results

The major problems encountered with Siderub generators all damaged the frame Installation and instructions the lamps tested were: or forks, due to the earthing screws fitted. The Sanyo roller generator did no Many bicycle lamps, especially tailIamps, * inadequate mountings on many noticeable damage and was very seen in general use are mounted at quite lamps and generators; straightforward in in'stallation, but was inappropriate angles, wasting light. only suited to a limited range of frames. * inadequate instructions on Using ordinary cyclists and a variety of installation Entry of water and mud was less of a bikes, we aimed to determine the ade­ problem than expected. Previous experi­ quacy of brackets and instructions * absence of instructions on aiming of ence indicates that it will become more of supplied. lamps a problem, in the form of corrosion, as the testing continues. Most were inadequate. Few had any real * focussing problems with Miniature instructions, particularly on aiming of the Edison Screw glQbes (c.f. pre[ocus Mountings beam, and most mountings were only globes) suitable for a single position on a very The most critical mounting problems limited range of bicycles. * poor durability, with some lamps were with battery lamps, which were not not even lasting the test period. held securely enough for normal riding. Instructions and mountings should be The Cateye 500, the Basta, the Eveready adequate for ordinary people to fit lamps * corrosion of battery terminals and Dolphin, the Wonder Trial and the Berec to normal bicycles equipped for normal generally poor circuit design, allowing Nightrider all jumped loose from their use, and to aim the lamps properly. buildup of corrosion products on ter­ mountings on severe bumps. Lamps should be compatable with minals pannier bags, handlebar bags and centre­ Most of the lamps on test, battery and pull brakes, for instances. * hazards in mixing different dynamo dynamo, suffered slippage of their systems mounts to some degree, affecting the Focussing problems aiming of the lamps. General The Miniature Edison Screw (E 10) bulb The mountings were generally unsuited to cap lacks any positive indication of when Many of the lamps and generators could bicycles equipped for day-to-day use. it is screwed in the right amount. Screw­ not be suitably mounted on quite ordinary * None of the battery headlamps could ing the globe in a little too far, or not far bicycles. be used with a handlebar bag. enough, will affect the focus of the lamp. * None of the taillamps could be Instructions were inadequate in most mounted securely on a pannier rack With a properly designed lamp assembly, cases, absent in others. In only one case with the mountings supplied, and only there is only one optimal focus setting for were optional mountings mentioned for a couple could be mounted the lamp. There is no value in allowing bicycles to which the lamp could not satisfactorily on a top-loading carrier. for variation of focus, and the focussing otherwise be fitted. (The optional * The dynamo headlamps all presented of the lamp requires skills beyond those mountings were not available in mounting problems with centrepull of an average cyclist. Australia, however.) brakes * None of the taillamp mountings All bicycle lamps should use prefocus Almost all the taillamps presented major allowed the lamp to be fitted on the globes; either the prefocus flange (P 13.5) problems of installation on bikes with centreline of the bike, but instead type, or the flanged Miniature Edison rear carriers, despite the carrier being a placed them at the side w here they are Screw type cap (EP 10). normal and virtually essential element of vulnerable to everyday damage. any commuter or touring bike. Making special brackets is beyond the One year is a reasonable minimum life to resources and skills of most cyclists. / ...... ~, .~ \ r----. i expect from a lighting system. Several \ \ ;, I lamps failed disastrously within the first - } \. I I : / I ' , ~ few weeks of the test. This is totally L---= J ::=- ...::::J 2~ unacceptable. ~ ~ j I ~ ~ Lj ~.'- "'-' ---

Caps for miniature bulbs. Fromlejt; E10,EP10,PJ3.5

Problems with Bicycle Lighting by John Harland, 1990. p.6 [ Results

This must include dynamo taiIIamp Plastic lenses were found to deteriorate. globes. A prefoeus globe, preferably of Hcadlamp lenses are particularly 1.0 to 2.0 Wat::s should replace the 0.6 susceptible to scouring by windblown C2 globe s!,ecitled in the LSD. dust, and by simply washing mud from Lighting Stanc;ard, and in others deriving the lens st~rfacc. Such treatment doesn'i ("rom i1 (such as the British and Auswalian leave spcc:.ucu:2I scratches, but creates a standards). B(~cause of tbe sm:~ll size of nctwor:( 0: micro-scratches that ciffuse many dynamo tc:ii!amps, small changes in the Iigi!t output. Sue!"! sc:;-alching can bulb location lTIa:"c rdatively big change,,; resu:t ~n 2. significant ioss of efficiency to focus. after a s:nglc ye3r's use.

Durability Corrosio~ of battery terminals

New materials and :1CW manufacturicg The short tesi period meant that corrosion techniques have made possible the of cerminals was less of a problem than manufacture of much smailer amd lighte" previous user expe,ience has shown to be yet more efficient bicycle lamps. in extended use.

The unfortunate corollary is that most of There were indications late in the test the dynamo lamps tested were not strong period that in term ittency of light output enough to withstand quite normal due to corrosion may be less of a problem everyday stresses. Tha: few of the lamps in everyday use than with the occasional did break during the test was largely use of average cyclists. Lamps which because the testers had each suffered such had stood unused for an extended period breakages in the past, and knew to take became intermittent, despite performing especial care. well in everyday use.

Leaning the bicycle carelessly against a The testing has continued beyond the post can be enough to irrepairably period of this report, and is hoped that it damage most of the dynamo lamps tested. will reveal problems as they develop.

The battery lamps in general were Mixing systems The Sanyo Dynapower generator is stronger, of necessity. The poor design of unregulated and produces high peak Yoltages. many of the mountings meant that when An unexpected problem was that of the lamps bounced loose they had to mixing brands. For example, powering a withstand hitting the road at speed. Not Union or An Lun from a all lamps were strong enough to with­ Sanyo Dynapower generator resulted in stand this. frequent bulb failure. With the supplied generator in each case, however, they were reliable. (In !he case of the Union at least, this was because the dynamo has an inbuilt voltage limiter.)

This is important because both la:nps arc avai:able separately, and are very com­ monly connected :0 Dynapower genera­ tors. No wX"ning is included on either package.

Some models of the Union lamp conw.in the voltage Emite, in the lamp itself, but the model lacking voltage limiting is still available.

The Union siderub generator with inbuilt A Sanyo Dynapower headlamp showing Yoltage regulation. surface abrasion from extended use.

Problems with Bicycle Lighting by John Harland, 1990. p.7 Background to the technical recommendations

(2) That the Australian Standard/or It is particularly difficult to fit a (v) Taillamp output comparable to pedal cycles stipulate the fitting of lamps taillamp to a pannier rack, and still those of motor vehicles. to all normal bicycles, and the affixing to leave room for the bags. all non-illuminate bicycles of a large, Most nighttime bicycle crashes in difficult-to-remove sticker: Warning; (iii) Standardised frame mounts for Victoria are from rear impact. It is This biCYcle is for daytime use only. lamps and generators (i.e. braze-ons). unacceptable that so little of the light output of a bicycle is from the It must become the norm in Australia, as Add-on mounts are heavy and ineffi­ taillamp, as it is under present it is in Europe, that a bicycle be fitted cient, and often do not fit particular standards and the forthcoming with lamps. bicycles, or allow the lamps to be Australian Standard aimed properly. Such mounts often (3) That the Australian Standard slip also. (vi) Reliable connectors [or all Lighting Equipment/or Pedal Cycles be dynamo and other remotely powered amended by the SAA to include: Standardised frame mounts should lamps. Twisted wires arc not a give the correct aim to lamps, and reliable connection. (i) Standardised mounting screws have an effective detent to prevent the and lugs on lamps and dynamos. lamps from slipping out of adjustment. (vii) Scratch-resistant plastics, or Supplied mountings were generally glass for headlamp lenses. Presently clumsy and heavy because they are (iv) Prefocus globes; Either the used materials suffer such surface attempts to fit a range of bicycles and prefocus flange (P 13.5) type, or the scratching from normal riding and mounting points. flanged M.E.S type cap (EP 10) for all cleaning that the light output can bicycle lamps including dynamo deteriorate significantly within a year. (ii) Standardised lamp mounting taillamps. Few cyclists understand the points be part of all carrier racks sold need for, or the method of focussing a (viii) Instructions must allow for in Australia, especially pannier racks lamp. installation to any normal bicycle by a person with limited technical knowledge.

Acknowledgements

Many people have contributed to this Susan Moss, Max Nankervis, Martin Especial thanks to Ron Shepherd (Bicycle survey, through all its stages. O'Brien, Roger Peterson, Ron Shepherd, Victoria) for advice and assistance Geoff Shores, Barbara Trainor and Kelli throughout the project. Thanks to Bernadette Beekmans, Janette Wendel, the testers, for their assistance Beeston, Crispian Bradley, Ian Bray, and their diligence in filling out the pa­ Thanks too, to Maurie Hevem of the Gerald Brown, Robin Dexter, Martin Mc perwork day by day. Bicycle Co-ordination Unit, VicRoads, Laughlin, Helen McInerney, Paul McKay, for his assistance, enthusiasm and patience in supervising the project.

[ Key to the ranking of the lamps

* * * * Excellent, no significant faults in * Usable, with reservations. Lamps of necessitate unsafe riding in order to check performance or durability last resort. Not good enough, but much on performance of the lamp. better than nothing. It should be noted that only three of these * * * Good light output, reliable Not recommended: so poor as to be five ratings have been used, as none of performance, but could be improved perhaps worse than nothing, because they the lamps tested was considered good give a false sense of security, or ( * * * ) or excellent ( * * * * ) * * Fair quality.

Problems with Bicycle Lighting by John Harland, 1990. p.8 Bibliography

Barnes, G. and Wiecks, G. (1984)"Batter­ Jenkins, S.E., and Francis, P. (1986) Shepherd, R. (1987) "Be seen at night", ies for bike lights" Push On June-July. distributions for Bicycle Victoria, Vol 5, no 5, October, p. bicycle front lights and taillights. Aus­ 20. Bijma,1. (1988) "Lichtpuntjes" Fiets tralian Road Research Board (Internal () Nov/Dec 1988. Report). Shepherd, R. (1987) "Are reflectors dangerous?", Bicycle Victoria, Vol 5, no Bryant, J.F.M. and Associates (1981) Mathieson, J.G. and Coin, C.D.A. (1989) 5, October, p. 20. State Bicycle Committee, Melbourne "Cyclist behavior worse", Cyc-ed Out, no 84, p.3. Smith, G. (1987) Bulb Study and photom­ B.S.I. (1986) British Standard - Cycles - etric testing of bicycle front lamps in Part 3: Specification for photometric and McCarthy, MJ., Mathieson, J.G. and accordance with specification 71 RI21 physical requirements of lighting equip­ Coin, C.D.A. (1986) "The on-road smg. Optical and Photometric Technol­ ment. Britisf: Standards Institution, performance of bicycle headlights". ogy P/L, Mclboune. London, U.K. B ike safe '86, Department of Transport, Canberra, pp 403-425. Smith, J. (1989) "Bright lights for all Clauscen, P. and Middelton, R. (1988) An bikes·', Bicycle (UK), March. investigation into improving the McInerny, K. (1984) "Lighting", efficiency of 0icycle lighting systems. Push On, April-May. Taylor, J. (1982) "Night riders", Pedal Universtiy of Newcastle, Australia. , (Victoria), YIarch, p.13. Noordzij, P.C. (1976) Cycling in the Freewheeling (1984) "Lighting up the dark: an analysis of fatal bicycle acci­ Taylor, J. (1982) "Light standards", night: a look at what's new in bicycle dents in the Netherlands, Journal of Trochos, September, p.3. lighting", no 26, July, pp 59-62. Safety Research, Vol 8, no 2, pp 73-76. Tcchnisearch Limited (1982) Test report Groot, K. (1988) Personal communication Parker, A.A. (1981) 'The need for a summary, bicycle lighting systems, tests Super Bike Light", Learning Exchange, and evaluations Technisearch Limited, Harland, J. (1988) "Night riding", Bicycle issue 98, March p.8. Melbourne. Victoria, Vol 6, no 4, August, pp. 8-9. Parker, A.A. (1982) "Lighting Up", Van der Plas, R. (1978) "Staying alive at Harland, J. (1988) "Bicycle lights", Trochos, no. 18, March p.23. night" Bicycling, December, p.49. Bicycle Victoria, Vol 6, no 4, August, pp. 24-25. Peace, R. (1982) "Die fantastische Licht, Walker, A. (1981) "Hints on bicycle the Union mOOH Headlight", Pedal Iighting",Trochos, no 11, September, p. Harland, J. (1988) "Rechargeable lights", Power (Victoria) March, p.14. 23. Bicycle Victoria, Vol 6, no 4, August, p. 29. Peace, R. (1988) "Lighting up" Australian Watts, G.R. (1984a) Evaluation of con­ Bicycle, vol 17, no 6, November, pp 33- spicuity aids for pedal cyclists, TRRL Hevern, M. (] 988) Personal 38. laboratory report 1103, Transport and communication. Road Research Laboratory, Crowthorne, S.A.A. (1990, in publication) Australian Berkshire, U.K. Hoque, Md.M. (1987) Fatal bicycle Standard, Lighting Equipmentfor Pedal accidents with emphasis on night time Cycles. Standards Association of Watts, G.R. (l984b) Pedal cycle lamps fatalities: Victoria -1981-1984, Road Australia, Sydney. and reflectors - some visibility tests and surveys. TRRL laboratory report 1108, Shepherd, R. (1984) "The bikes we need: Transport and Road Research L2.boratory, LS.o. (1985) International Standard an open letter to the bicycle industry" Crow thorne, Berkshire, U.K. I.S.0. 674211: Cycles - lighting and Fren·;heeling, no 26, July, p5. reflective devices - photometric and Wiccks, G. (1985) "Let there be light" physical requirements - Part 1: lighting Shepherd, R. (1984) ··The lights go out Push On, February-March. equipment International Standards one by one" Freewheeling, no 26, July, Association. p62 Zwahlen, H.T. (1981) "Nighttime detec­ tion of bicycles", Conspicuity on the highway, Transportation Research Board, Washington, D.C.

Problems with Bicycle Lighting by John Harland, 1990. p.9 An Lun Halogen dynamo vibration made them unpleasant to use. (It was discovered after the test period that the lighting set plastic drive head could be removed, and that a conventional, and concentric, metal drive Standards compliance: nil head was concealed within.)

Instructions: nil The roller was ambiguous in design. Its stepped shape appeared to be designed to run Mounting: on the rim or the tyre, or perhaps both. The I-Ieadlamp bracket is for brake centrebolt or result was that it did none of these things handlebar pinch bolt of cheap steel handlebar well. clamp. The large drainhole of the headlamp was in The headlamp mount was unsuited to both the spray from the front wheel when mounted bikes used. Both used aluminium handlebar on the brakebolt as recommended. The lamp clamps incompatible with use of the bracket became unusable though the amount of water at that position. and mud inside. 111is obscured the light, then U sed as a brakebolt mount, the lamp on one caused the globe to fail. of the bikes was placed in the path of spray from the front wheel. The other bike had mudguards, and the Jump An Lun generator (on Sanyo mounl.), was mounted on a steering-head bracket (not On the other the brakebolt mounting placed showing the ambiguous rubber drivewheel supplied), and the problem of spray through the lamp below the level of the front pannier the drainhole did not arise. Very few bicycles rack. The bracket and lamp were attached The bracket itself was not acceptable anyway. in Australia have mudguards, however. instead to a reOector mount at the steering It relied for sufficient grip on either the clamp head, but this added up to a very long bracket being tightened enough to crush the seat- stay overall; susceptible to fatigue failure. slightly, or the earthing screw being screwed (Although this did not occur during the brief in hard enough to deeply dent the seatstay. period of the test). On one bike a substitute front-fork clamp Taillamp mounting combined with seatstay (Sanyo) was used. For the other this was dynamo bracket. unavailable, so the lamps were connected to the already-installed Sanyo Dynapower The mount only allowed mounting of the lamp on the left-hand seatstay, below the top generator. of the wheel. In Australia this means that it is invisible most of the time, even if no carrier Wiring; rack is installed. Wiring was adequate in length, but lacked good connectors. No wire-tics were induded. Dynamo bracket for seatstay mounting only. This bracket proved to be defective in design, Extra parts needed: and unusable. taillamp bracket different generator bracket The Earthing screw did not have enough different headlamp bracket needed for many An Lun taillamp, perforce upside down thread to screw it in once the bracket was bikes The supplied taillamp was used on one of the installed, sO the electrical circuit was wire ties installations. The other tester ajudged the incomplete. lamp to be inadequate for safety, and Tools needed: connected the system to her already-installed - spanner (10 mm) Sanyo 6cm taillamp. - screwdriver - pliers The An Lun taillamp was designed for left· side mounting. When mounted on the right, Testers' judgement of performance: the supply wire enters through the top, and its * general: beam too concentrated, needed to hole provides an entry port for water. be used with another lamp (Cateye 200) to Within a short time, the lamp had fallen apart; give reasonable spread of light its clip-fit lens having popped out. It had * low speed: good level or light output, but thereafter to be held in with adhesive tape. pattern poor. * high speed; acceptable The supplied laillamps varied. Both used the same lens, but one backed this with a proper Reliability: parabolic reflector, while tlle other used only One set was so disastrously unreliable that the the inside of the lamp body as a collimating test had to be terminated within two weeks. reOecto!. The first was barely adequate, tlle The other was reliable in occasional use. other quite inadequate. (dynamo eccentricity made it too unpleasant to use constantly) Testers' comments: Quite unacceptable. Specific problems encountered: AnLun Halogen, showing its posilion in Ihe Both sets were supplied with defective Retail price: approx $45 path of spray from the wheel, and ils dynamos. The drive heads were 1.5 - 2 rum closeness 10 the brake arms and cables. eccentric, and the resultant noise and Rating: not recommended

Problems with Bicycle Lighting by John Harland, 1990. (i) An Lun (non-halogen) Standards compliance; DIN Reliability: 11K hcadlamp globe failed at three weeks and headlamp Instructions; nil about 120 km of night riding. The envelope was strongly metalised within, even after so Mounting; short a !ime. brake bolt mount also suitable for mounting to the handlebar clamp bolt of cheap steel Around 8 weeks from installation, the lamp headstem. became highly intermittent, seemingly from a buildup of corrosion products on the broad, 111e headlamp mount was unsuited to the bike flat rear terminal. Whilst this can be cleaned, used for the test. Used as a brakebolt mount­ a more suitable design of temlinal would have ing, it restricted ,he action of the eentrepull obviated the problem. brakes, and it was incompatible with the handlebar clamp used. Testers' comment'>: Appcarance is similar to Sanyo Dynapown, Wiring: Ample (1.5 m) but performance (with the same globe) seems much superior, especially in distribution of Extra parts needed; light. wire ties. Accessibility for globe changes is good, and Tools needed; globe change no problem. 10 mm spanner screwdriver Weather proofing appeared to be good, and pliers or sideculler there is space in the rear housing, for a spare globe Testers' judgements of performance: * general: Good to Excellent for a non­ This unit lacks the large drainho!c of the halogen lamp. Good wide oblong "hotspot" superficially similar An Lun Halogen, and with enough peripheral light spread to sec wa<; judged to have a more usable light overhanging branches, etc. on dark tracks d:stri:::mtion. * low speed: nla * high speed: nla These parameters reflect Retail price: approx $16 An Lun non-halogen headlamp the dynamo pcrformance rather than the lamp. (A Union siderub generator was used) Rating * *

Testers' judgements of performance: AXA halogen head lamp * general; The beam was powerful, but testers' opinions differed. Several testers Standards compliance: BS 3648, DIN judged it to be too narrow, but one preferred it to the Union because the beam illuminated the Instructions: ground closer to the front wheel. A single diagram of the lamp installed on the Reliability: brake centrebolt. 111e diagram depicted the Good; the voltage limiter is very effective in earlier model, and slightly, but significantly preventing globe burnout, even when run I different, bracket. from the Sanyo Dynapower, which generates very high peak voltages. Mounting: Brake centrebolt bracket only. Removal of Specific problems encountered: the lamp from lhis b,acket was rather in­ Care is needed in replacing globe in that the volved, and the cleara'1ce around the motmt­ plastic clip retaining the reflector housing to jng screw was so Iimitccl that other brands of the rea::- l:ousing is very easily broken. lamp mounting b,ackct were quite unsuitable. The metal ferrule around the globe is too In fact, neither tester found this a problem. small a ciameter to allow fitment of a non­ One used a home-made mount while the other halogen globe in emergency. This is was happy with the brakebolt mounting. less important in Europe, but is of concern here, where halogen globes arc four or five Wiring: limes the European price, and not always Sufficient (1.5 metres) obtainable. (e.g. 1986 when no City shops had the globes, and nobody was importing them) Extra parts needed: nil The ferrule can be filed-out sligl:tly to accept Tools needed: the 12.Jltern globe; fiunent of the halogen onc is unaffected. T'1:s mocif'catior; s:10uid be - lOmm spanner made to the design. - pliers - screwdriver Retail price: appro x $30 AXA halogen head/amp Rating * *

Problems with Bicycle Lighting by John Harland, 1990. (ii) Basta head and tail lamps The lamp is a click-fit onto the bracket. The detent is insufficient, though, and one of tr. ~ Standards compliance: nil four taillamps under test jumped from its mountings. The lamp survived the impact, Instructions: but was squashed by the wheel of a truck In Swedish. Reasonably clear from the before it could be retrieved. diagrams. Tools needed: Mounting: - screwdriver Headlamp bracket non-adjustable; too loose for steel handlebars. Despite its looseness Testers' judgements of performance: once installed, it was hard to force it onto the * Headlamp, general: output was quite handlebars. inadequate for finding one's way, even when re-equipped with a bigger, 0.5 Amp globe. Taillamp bracket a force-fit onto carrier stay. Required considerable hand strength. * The taillamp output was excellent for its Two brackets broke on assembly. It is size, but the 0.2W globe is far too weak. unclear which thickness of rubber to use with what thickness of stay. Reliability: Electrically reliable within the test pcriod. The rear mount was unusual in that it fitted well with a rear carrier. One tester, One lamp lost its battery cover and was successfully mounted the taillamp bracket on rcndered useless. a 3 mm steel mudguard stay. It would not mount on a seatstay, however, or onto a Specific problems encountered: carrier rack of tubular steel or aluminium. The headlamp bracket slips, pointing the lamp groundwards. Both it and the taillamp The bracket docs require a stay that was bracket on occasion allow thc lamps to fly-off vertical in the lateral plane; adjustment only on bumps. being possible in the fore/aft plane. This Basta taillamp, after jumping its mount made difficult the fitting of it to a pannier Testers' comments: The mountings are quite unsatisfactory. and being run over by a truck rack; it will not fit securely to the top, yet cannot be fitted to the sides without Retail price: $12 - $15 obstructing the bags. Rating: *

Byka Electronic hybrid lighting set Tools needed: Allen key (5 mm) 150 mm wrench Standards compliance: BS AU155, DIN Testers' judgement of performance Instructions: Light output useful but not excellent for Adequate, except that no description is given country roads, and regional-town streets. of generator installation. Reliability: Colour coding of the wires to the dynamo and Taillamp globes constantly failed. the taillamp would be most helpful. Contact at the hotshoe was unreliable Mounting: The "hotshoe" quick-release brackct has SpecifiC problems encountered: provision for mounting on either the No taillamp was supplied, and the 1.0W or handlebar or on a front carrier. Handlebar 1.5W globes recommended are unavailable in mounting was used on both test bicycles, and Victoria. hclJ securely. Testers' comments: Reliability: Troublesome (and expensive). The system did have its problems, however, in that normal removal and replacement led to Retail price: $60 -$80 intermittency of contact.

Extra parts needed: Rating: not recommended tailamp (with 1.0 Watt globe) wire ties connectors Byka Electronic hybrid

Problems with Bicycle Lighting by John Harland, 1990. (iii) Berec Nightrider taillamp It was also tested on a custom-made mounting Thc mount also slipped around on i15 centre­ flange on a pannier rack. This was significant bolt, pointing the lamp groundwards. (The in that the flange was made for the previous previously tested headlamp mount had an mode! Berec Rearguard, and the new bracket even more marked tendency to this.) fitted without modification; the screwholcs lint:d up exactly. This standardisation was The switch is poorly placed, in that it is easily appreciated. switched-on aceidentally whilst stored in one's bag when not in use. A major problem with the Berec is a propen­ Both these problems have been addressed on sity for jumping out of its mount on rough subsequent models (not imported to Austra· ground. Knowing this to bc a problem, the Jia,) but we don't how effectively. Beree was tested with a bungee cord around it to reinforce the mount. The newer mode!, not Previous experience has shown this lamp to currently imported, is known to be improved become highly unreliable after a fcw months in respcct of its mount, and there was fclt to usc. Although the circuit is now simple be no value in destructive!y confirming a enough, (as against the fourteen or more dry well-recognised problem with the older joints on the previous design) most of the mounting. contacts are far too large in area to be self­ wiping. The switch also suffers from being a Extra parts needed: push-contact one with negligible wiping short bungee cord or strong rubber band. movement. These shortcomings arc remedi­ able with minor redesign. Tools needed: Berec Nightrider taillamp (with bungee cord) - 150 mm adjustable sparmer Accessability of the globe for changing is - 7 mm wide screwdriver very good. Changing batteries is straightfor· Standards compliance: BS 3648 ward, but requires strong fingers, and risks Testers' judgements of performance: breaking of fingernails Instructions: The beam thrown by this taillamp is probably Testers' comments: Rudimentary the best of any taillamp tested; strong, with a slightly fan-shaped beam. The headlamp version of this lamp had been tried previously, but was regarded as unsuit­ Mounting: able due to the narrowness of its beam. Light Reliability: A single bracket designed for either seatstay output was far less useful than, for instance, or carrier mounting. Allows of installment on The lamp was reliable for the test period. the similarly-powered Cateye 200 HL. (both 2 eithcr left or right sidc. Carrier mounting Previous experience with this lamp has x D- size alkaline cells with 0.5 A vacuum only possible on side struts, and not as secure indieatcd serious unreliability in earlier globe) as seat stay mounting. Alternative bracket shipments of this lamp. One of our testers, available from manufacturer to allow fitment though, has used such a taillamp for two years The light output from the taillamp, however, on rear of pannier rack. of commuting with no sign of intennittency. is exemplary. This is the lamp for the enthusiast seeking high perfonnance and This was not available for the test. Spedlie problems encountered: prepared to do some modification to over­ The mount was not strong enough to hold the come the deficiencies of the brackets and the The bracket mounted easily and fitted lamp on severe bumps. Knowing this from switch. It is not as recommendable to the securely to the scat stay of the bikes on which several previous experiences, the test lamp normal rider. it was tested. There was no problem in was retained in its clip by a supplementary aiming it correctly. bungee cord. Retail price: approx $16 Rating *

Problems with Bicycle Lighting by John IIarland, 1990. (iv) Cateye 200 TL taillamp

Specific problems encountered: Very difficult and time-consuming to optimally focus lamp; should use prcfocus globe Changing of tail amp globe is hazardous and very difficult, and damaging to the lamp. * globe is so tight that the grip required to shift it is enough to crush the glass envelope of a less than perfectly made globe. Thick safety gloves must be worn. * the earthing-wire arrangement is very fiddly, and makes globe difficult to insen. * lack of clearance, and the need to reach the globe from the front of the reflector means that the colimating reflector is unavoidably smeared, and usually damaged in the globe­ changeing and focussing proccsses_ * the need to use a scrcwdriver or coin to reattach the lens means a very high likelihood of scratching the lens whenever the giobe or Careye 200 TL taillamp batteries are replaced. * it is difficult to remove the lamp from its "quick-release" bracket to tightcn the mount if Standards compliance: BS 6102, including The taillamp clamp was incompatible with it starts slipping, as one test unit did. retro-reflector to BS 6102/2 most parmier racks except the Karrimor, where it could be mounted within the carrier Testers' .i udgements of performance: Instructions: frame. The clamp grasped carrier stays fairly Barely adequate. This is one of the most Inadequate to cxplain the installation to a securely. powerful taillamps available, but thc light non-technical person. distribution is not optimal, even when Wiring: n/a focussed properly (a difficult task), and the This lamp has scvcral useful design features lighted area of thc lamp is too small. not mentioned in thc instructions, and thus Extra parts needed: nil unnoticed by many users: Testers' comments: Tools needed: Thc lamp was one of the morc reliable of - The scrcws which access the batteries and 8 mm sparmer battery taillamps testcd, but required a lot of globe have wide slots which can be undone screwdriver (flat or Phillips) maintenance when not in daily use. It has with a coin, if a screwdriver is unavailable. several major design problems which make Reliability: maintenance and mounting unduly difficult. - The lens unit can be mounted either way up, Reliable in everyday use when new, but so that the lamp can be installed on either left became intermittent when left unused for a or right side, and still have the switch facing week or two. This problem was addressed by Retail price: $13 -$18 downward, out of the weather. complete disassembly and thorough solvent­ cleaning of terminals and battery-cells. The Rating * Mounting: process is quite unacceptably fiddly and not The system is fiddly; nccds very thorough always effectual but is at least able to be done tightening of screws to avoid slippage. because every part of the circuit is open to Suitable for seatstay or rack mounting, but cleaning. This contrasts with several other only mountable on the siderods of carrier; not lamps in which muck can accumulate, inac­ on top of the rack. cessible to cleaning.

Problems with Bicycle Lighting by John Harland, 1990. (v) Cateye 200 HL head lamp Testers' judgements of performance: * general: The light output caused disagreement between the testers. One, accustomed to a 6 Watt halogen lamp, found the Cateye beam far too narrow and weak. The other, accus­ tomed to the inadequacies of other battery lamps, found the performance of the Cateye impressive.

When focussed well, the lamp was adequate for inner-suburban riding, and for unlit tracks at low speed. It was quite insufficient for outer-suberban main roads and for highway riding.

Focussing was needed to obtain best perform­ ance, but was an extremely fiddly operation and there were no instructions supplied. It is Cat eye 200 J-IL hp.adlamp quite unacceptable for ordinary cyclists to have to focus their headlamp before using it. Standards compliance: nil The handlebar-bag on one bike meant that the beam could not illumbate the road closer Reliability: Instructions: than about 25 m. in front of the bike. On the No problems of unreliability, even when Inadequate to explain the installation to a other, handlebar-mounted equipment meant mounted upsidc-down on one bicycle. non-technical person. that the lamp had to be hung under the handlebars, which exposed the drain-holes Testers' comments: Mounting: and switch to the weather. TIlis lamp is pcrhaps the bcst of the battcry A quick-release over-centre clasp. Needs head lamps tested, but would be greatly careful adjustment to grip handlebar firmly. The quick-release handlebar clamp was rather improved through use of a prefocus globe and fiddly. It held securely to the handlebar on all a more versatile clamping system. Not good for non-handlebar mounting. There the test lamps, but it did allow some slippage were no problems with mounting the around the handlebar. Retail price: $13 -S18 headlamp on two of the test bikes, but the other two presented significant problems. Tools needed: Rating: screwdriver only. **

Cateye 300 HL (head lamp ) Likewise, where the frame was high enough, The attachment system eventually ceases to the righthand seatstay made a suitable grip tightly, but there have been very few & mounting point. Shorter riders, however, and reports of the clamp letting-go spontaneously. espccially those with rear carrier-racks, had This is fortunate, because thc lamp is not 300 TL (taillamp) major difficulties finding a place to mount the particularly robust when dropped. lamp. The mounting strap assembly can Standards compliance: nil easily be removed, and the lamp screwed onto Tester's comments: a reflector bracket, but the instructions make The versatile strap arrangement makes this a Instructions: no mention of it. (nor is it immediately very handy lamp for standby use; to fit to a Quite inadequate. This lamp has one of the obvious) bike at the last moment, or to lend to a friend most vcrsatile of clamping and mounting who has come ill-prepared. It is not a good systcms, but its potential is wasted through Tools needed: choice for regular use because of iL~ lack of the very poor explanation as to how to use it Nil, except if changing the position of the power. to best effect. lamphousing or the clamp assembly on the battery casco This requires a screwdriver (flat Retail price: $14 -$20 :Wounting: or Phillips) Multi-positional strap systcm Rating * Testers' judgements of performance: '" general: The ligh, o;.ttput from the head­ head lamp ; very few cases of not being able lamp is quitc minima;; strictly for being seen, to fit this to the handlebars or headstem. ane! not for fi:lding or:e's way, even at low Even with handlebar bags it was reasonably speed. good because the permutations of clamp and lighting head allow a very large variety of The tailla.-np is modcratcly bright in a narrow mounting positions, and allowcd it to mount cone, but it lacks the lateral spread which is fairly high above the handlebars. generally seen to be needed. (viz. LS.o., British and Australian Standards.) taillamp; although the mount was identical to the front, it was less well suited to the Both require focussing to optimise per fittings at the rear of thc bike. On bikes with formance. This is unacceptable. a reasonable length of exposed saddlestem, this made an excellent mounting point. Reliability: Cateye 300 HL headlamp. The taillamp is Reliable within thc test period. iri£n1ical bw for lens colour.

Problems with Bicycle LIghting by John Harland, 1990. (vi) Cateye 500 Halogen Standards compliance: nil Reliability: head lamp Neither tester had a globc fail, but three cases Instructions: were known (out of seven people known to be Inadequate for a non-technical person. Clear using them) of globe bumout within the first diagrams, but confusing text. few days. This was particularly troublesome because no wholesale supplies of spare globes Mounting: had been imported by the distributor. Handlebar clamp/quick-release which can Specific problems encountered: only mount on a horizontal section of *three cases were recorded of the lamps handlebar perpendicular to the direction of jumping from their mounts on severe bumps. travel This included one of the test lamps. *battery life was very short, especially on the Mounting is a problem with handlebar bags, carbon-zinc batteries originally supplied but otherwise little trouble. Testers' comments: Extra parts needed: nil Light output was not much more usable than the Cateye 200 HL, yet the cost in batteries Tools needed: was at least double, and spare globes were screwdriver (flat or Phillips-hcad) unavailable. Together with the inadequate security of the clamp, it seems much in need Testers' judgements of performance: of detail devclopment (and better product * genera]: excellent for a battery lamp, backup) although the beam is perhaps a little too concentrated Retail price: Approx $27 * low speed: good Cateye 500 ilL Halogen headlamp * high speed: inadequate Rating *

Cateye 600 HL headlamp

Standards compliance: nil

Instructions: Inadequate for a non-technical person. Clear diagrams, but confusing tcxt.

Drientaion of the lens unit is mentioned, but not made at all clear.

Mounting: A handlebar clamp, with two optional thick­ ncsscs of clastomcric packing.

The lamp does not fit well with a handlebar bag. Cateye 600 IlL headlamp Extra parts needed: nil Reliability: Earlier versions of the lamp were available not yet ascertained only with a fork-blade mounting, which was Tools needed: seen as not recommendable Phillips-head screwdriver The quick-release slide arrangement is similar to the one on the Cateye 5000 HL so it carmot It is notable for the D-ring seal between Testers' judgements of performance: exite much confidence. (that unit is prone to sections of the lamp, to keep the weather out. * general: Very good [or a battery lamp. letting-go on bumps, even with the much The circuit is more complex than that of the Comparable to Cateye 200 HL, but with lighter 5000 head lamp) Cateye 200 HL, but may prove reliable slightly better light distribution at centre. despite that, because of the better weather­ This may, however have been only a matter of Testers' comments: proofing. focussing of each, but this was difficult to This lamp became available in its present ascertain. form at the end of the test period, so only Retail price: $13 -$20 * low speed: very good installation and light output could be * high speed: inadequate assessed. Rating *

Problems with Bicycle Lighting by John Harland, 1990. (vii) Cateye 700 HL headlamp

Standards compliance: nil Reliability: No failures during the testing period Instructions: Inadequate for a non-technical pcrson. Clear Specific problems encountered: diagrams, but confusing text. The cover-plate screw and iL~ nut were easily mislaid when changing batteries or globe. Mounting: Both should have been captive, as on the A handlebar clamp, with two optional thick­ Cateye 300. nesses of e1astomeric packing. The same problem affects the screw and nut The lamp could not be mounted at all on one which hold the mount to the handlebar, and of the test bikes which had a fairly bulky the same solution is applicable. handlebar clamp. It would also not fit with a Testers' comments: handlebar bag. Seems to offer no advantage over the Cateye 200 HL, and suffers several disadvantages in Wiring: n/a mounting and maintenance. It docs have a quick-release slide arrangement, but that is Extra parts needed: nil too much like the one on the Cateye 500 HL to exite much confidence. (the 500 HL unit is Tools needed: prone to letting-go on bumps, even with that Phillips-head screwdriver much lighter headlamp)

Testers' judgements of performance: Retail price: $13 -S2D * general: Very good for a battery lamp. Cateye 700 HL headlamp Identical to Cateye 600 HL. Rating *

Eveready Dolphin Junior Standards compliance: BS 3648 wheel of the bicycle. Fortunately the tester was not injured taillamp Instructions: nil Specific problems encountered: Mounting: The mounting bracket slipped at its pivot, Seatstay mount only. This lamp was designed even though it'was tightened as tightly as to fit on the standard British lamp mount, and seemed advisable. does so fairly satisfactorily, although it rattles. Such mounts are now all but unavail­ The pivot was tightened further, but the able in Australia, however. bracket broke through metal fatigue a shan time later. Extra parts needed: nil Battery replacement requires care in that it is Tools needed: 150 mm wrench very easy to damage the contacts to the switch when reinstalling the lamp unit into the body. Testers' judgements of performance: * general. The power and the colour of the Past experience has also indicated the light output arc excellent. Output pattern is likelihood of cracking of the back of the lens/ wasteful of light, however. reflector unit when replacing the globe holder.

Reliability: Testers' comments: The lamp itself was quite reliable for the Some excellent features, but too many duration of the test, but the mounting was problems to make it worthwhile. very short-lived. First the nylon pivot washer broke, causing the lamp to point cownwards. Retail price: $10 -$14

Eveready Dolphin Junior taillamp, showing Once this was patched, the metal bracket damage/rom impact with the ground. itsclf broke, dro?ping the la.-np into the back Rating: not recommended

Problems with Bicycle Lighting by John Harland, 1990. (viii) Sanyo Dynapower Reliability: One headlamp globe failure. lighting set Specific problems encountered: nil, but previous expericnc has shown micro-scratch­ Standards compliance: ing of the plastic lens to be a major long term problem, degrading light output. A harder plastic, or a glass lens would better survive Instructions: nil cleaning, and wind-blown dust. Mounting: Headlamp: brake centrebolt mount only Testers' comments: The smoothness and quiet of the dynamo unit Taillamp: a flimsy seatstay mount which can have engendered a popular conception of high be crushed slightly to fit a carrier stay. It efficiency, but this is partly illusory (Technis­ does not clasp strongly enough, however. earch 1982). Wiring: It is, however, a generally rcliable unit, with Adequate length, with good connectors. good weathcrproofing and is one of the few Extra parts needed: lamps supplied with proper cable connectors. wire ties The light output is only moderatc for its Tools needed: power consumption. 10 rom spanner for headlamp bracket screwdriver and 150 mm wrench for taillamp The reliability and thc smoothncss have made this unit very popular. It is a benchmark bracket minimum for an acceptable lighting system. Testers' judgements of performance: Sanyo 7em taillamp (supplied with recent The two sets tested differed considerably in Retail price: $45-$55 Dynapower sets only). The earlier taillamp is pcrformance; one being adjudged moderate, rwt recommendable. the other inadequate. Rating **

Union UIOO H halogen Testers' judgements of performance: Testers' comments: ,.. general: Excellent, broad central "hotspot" The light output of this unit, both front and lighting set with good peripheral light to show up sides, rear, greatly exceeds that of the more popular and to reveal overhead branches. Sanyo Dynapower. Standards compliance: BS 3648, DIN ,.. low speed: Dynamo output excellent, with usable light down to walking speed. When installed as a set, it is quite outstand­ Instructions: nil ,.. high speed: Dynamo output regulated to 7 ing, although the weatherproofing is not quite , so fast downhills can be ridden with as good as the Sanyo. It has gained a poor reasonable confidence. reputation mainly through people substituting Mounting: the Sanyo Dynapower for the Union genera­ Front: Brake centre bolt mount. Alternative Reliability: tor, in the belief that it is more efficient. steering head mount available from manufac­ No problems encountered with either of the turer, but not mentioned on box, and only units on test. Whilst the Union Generator is regulated to 7 occasionally available retail. Volts, the Dynapower is not, and can produce Specific problems encountered: very high peak voltages, which overload the Rear: Alternative of mounting together with No problems arose during the test period, but halogen globes. dynamo on lefthand seatstay, or separately on previous experience has indicated longer-term seatstay (left or right). problems in the following areas: This is perhaps the most efficient bicycle ,.. corrosion of the rear terminal in the head­ headJamp marketed in Australia, but it does Dynamo: Alternative brackets for front fork lamp, due to entry of water through hole at need several modifications to improve or seatstay provided. (both left side mounted, side. Sealing with silicone seems to help. reliability and weatherproofing. facing forward) ,.. entry of water around the lens of some examples. Use of a silicone sealant would Retail price: $40-$70 Mounting: No problems encountered in using help greatly the brackcts as designed, except on one bike ,.. poor contact between the supply wire and Rating where the brackets were each replaced with the spring which contacts the flange of the ** bespoke units. This bike was unusual in globe. Soldering the wire to the spring helps, scveral respects, however, with non-standard but the contact with the flange is still not steering clamp and custom pannier racks front good. ,.. micro-scratching of the plastic lens, and rear. degrading light output. A harder plastic, or a glass lens would better survivc cleaning, and Wiring: wind-blown dust. Adequate; 1.5 metres on head and tail lamps. ,.. breakage of the plastic rear housing when lamp is accidentally leaned against fence or Extra parts needed: post. A metal support would bend, but be - Wire ties repairable - Brackets for fitment to some bikcs ,.. the self-tapping screw at rear of lanlp loosens with usage. A machine-screw, such Tools needed: as on the Cateye 300 would be preferable - Screw driver - 10 mm spanner Union U100H halogen head/amp with taillamp - Pliers or wirecutters

Problems with Bicycle Lighting by John Harland, 1990. (ix) Union S70 taillamp Specific problems encountered: Very fiddly to focus Standards compliance: DIN Testers' comments: A good size taillamp which is very bright Instructions: nil considering its tiny 0.6 Amp globe. The beam east is rather narrow compared to the Mounting: smaller Union made to the British Standard, No brackets supplied however. Wiring: adequate, app. 1.5 m It needs a prcfocus globe to make best use of the good optical design. Extra parts needed: Bracket, nuts and screws. Retail price: Approx $12 Tools needed: nla; depends on bracket used. Rating ** Union S70 taillamp, on homemade sadd/epost Reliability: mount, to bring lamp up to driver eye-level, No problems during test period and to clear baggage .

Wonder Trial head and tail Mounting: Taillamp: Headlamp bracket permits only of mounting * general: A strong beam rearward, but sub­ lamps on a horizontal section of handlebar. Easily optimal through its curious distribution of installed without tools. "hot-spots". * low speed nla Taillamp bracket only usable on seatstay. * high speed nla Easily installed on either left or right side. Reliability: The physical size of unit made aiming of Poor. Intermittency of light output developed taillamp difficult on smaller frame sizes with within a month, and was severe by the end of carrier racks. the test period.

Extra parts needed: Specific problems encountered: For mounting on back of pannier rack, a * The battery compartment spring corroded different taillamp J710unt is needed. markedly on all sampks, but especially on the taillamps. To mount headlamp other than near centre of * The hinges of the top covers broke loose in handlebar, different bracht is needed. two of the four lamps tested. * One headlamp jumped from its mount on a Tools needed; (for taillamp only): bumpy road. The "optional" rubber band . screwdriver around the front mount is in fact an essential Wonder "Trial" head/amp. The taillamp is - 8 mm spannt::r to reliability. idenlical in shape * The headlamp vibrates loudly in its mown. Testers' judgements of performance: * The taillamp mount caused considerable Standards compliance: BS 6102 Headlamp: damage to the seatstay paintwork. * general: a strong beam, but rather narrow * Both mounts slipped on the bike and net::ded Instructions: * low speed: adequate extra rubber packing to grip properly. Comprehensive instructions in four languagt::s * high speed: inadequate on outer-suburban (with few translational errors). Clear or country roads Retail price: Approx 522 diagrams. Regarded by testers as adequate. Rating: not recommended

Problems with Bicycle Lighting by John Harland, 1990. (x)