9/15W Metal-Halide (Xenon) additional bikelight: Edison is suitable for all types of Lupine rechageable batteries (7.2V) The light output of 900 Lumen (NightMare Pro 25 W HP headlight 550 Lumen) corresponds to a 45 Watt HP Halogen headlight - however with a bluish glistening light (light temperature 6000 K), compared with expensive Xenon car headlights. With a radiation angle of 18% and our symmetrical periphery illumination, Edison amazingly brightens up the horizon.
Submitted by
Tim B
a Weekend Warrior
from Cape Town, South Africa Date Reviewed: December 22, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Jonkershoek
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
Bike Factory in Chester
Strengths:
from the shot peened aluminum housing to the Raychem electrical cord, to the rubber band retaining system, this is well thought out lighting system. It's light weight, and therefore does not move around on the bar on bumpy terrain, and it's very bright. The long burn time is a majorplus for events like the 232km Trans Baviaans Marathon and for 24hr event.
Weaknesses:
maybe price hey but I guess you pay for a Ferrari don't you.
Similar Products Used:
L&M ARC, Lumi HID, Trailtech HID, Niterider BT
Bike Setup:
Cannondale Rush 3000 with Stan's wheels.
Bottom Line:
This is my 3rd review of this product. First was after a direct comparison, 2nd was after a year, and now after 3yrs.
I've had this light for over 3yrs. The bulb was replaced recently and save for a wire coming loose I've had absolutely no other problem with this light.
On the road, motorists respect the fact that you have more than enough light to erase any claim of "I did not see you".
On the trail you see obstacles long before you get there, which gives your brain more time to process. I find this makes me less fatigued during long night rides and 24hr events.
It's not cheap, but it's everything else. Not sure how to rate it on value for money cos thats subjective, but in terms of value I can't fault it. It's been there when I needed it everytime. Never missed a ride because of the Lupine. and the safety i offers from making me highly visible is immeasurable.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin Williams
a Racer
from Chicago, Illinois, US Date Reviewed: December 1, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$750.00
Purchased At:
asusitrail.com
Strengths:
Elegance of design. This is a premium product, and that is apparent even in the packing. The cooling fins at the rear of the light housing are a very logical touch, and the wiring is of "made to last" quality. The helmet mount is similar to the Light & Motion ARC, but that rubber O-ring, though it sounds cheesy, is so easy to use and logical, you wonder why everyone doesn't do it the same way. This setup also allows a micro-micro angle adjust, since it slides, instead of clicking into detents, as with NiteRider or L&M.
Weaknesses:
Two very minor ones. I wouldn't mind a switch on the light itelf, but routing the remote switch is very easy, and it works much better with my helmet than any other light I have used. Hence the "very minor" description of this quibble. Also, the battery comes in that nylon pouch. Something smaller and waterproof such as the NiteRider Storm was supplied with would be nice, with the nylon case as an option.
Similar Products Used:
I'm a lighting junkie, who has used NiteRider HID (simultaneous BlowTorch and Storm), and Light & Motion ARC (NiMH on the bike, LiON on the helmet).
Bottom Line:
This is an extraordinary product. My first time using it was on a night ride that our group does in the woods, on cyclocross bikes. The guy whom I was riding next to was thinking his light (NiteRider Storm) was pretty good, then I turned my head and we realized all the light was coming from the Lupine. I made a full-speed bridging effort at one point, and found it impossible to outride the light.
The other HID contenders have a smallish "hot spot" with some fill around the outside. The NiteRider is slightly brighter than the L&M, but the latter has a much nicer beam pattern. The Lupine, on high beam, can actually override the beams of the other HID lights. Its hot spot is enormous, with nice, clean outer edges. Really, it takes all the adventure out of riding at night. The 18-degree pattern is a true flood light.
For a while, I rode with an L&M ARC as my low beam on the bars, and the Lupine as the high beam on the helmet. But when the beams intersect, you quickly realize that the Lupine is the only light that you need.
I have been getting more than the specified run time from my Edison 5, almost 4 hours (two commutes home) on high beam, which knocked me out.
The light is a nicer color than the other HIDs, which are very blue. The Lupine light color is more white, so things such as street signs and car license plates are easier to read. It also is worth noting that because of the Lupine's light color and beam pattern, even on low beam, it blows away the L&M on high beam.
The Edison fires up and reaches full beam faster than the other HID lights, as well. It's just a vastly superior system that you really have to use to appreciate. Yes, $750 for a light is extravagant. But lights=life, when you're riding at night. It more than justifies its price the first time you use it.
Given that ARC LiON setups go for almost $500, an extra $250 for such a superior product is a bargain, in context. To use it is to love it. It only took one ride without it one night (it was at home, so it was just the L&M) to make you realize how superior it is. I went from feeling confident that I had plenty of light with the ARC pre-Lupine, to being worried that I didn't have enough....that it seemed dim, post-Lupine. Crazy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Buddha
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego, CA, USA Date Reviewed: January 31, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$750.00
Purchased At:
gretnabikes.com
Strengths:
Durability, Reliability, Superior construction and design, low weight and high lumens. Simplistic, yet functional.
Weaknesses:
While the price may be expensive, I can not consider this a "weakness" of the product.
I am fortunate to be able to afford such a great product. I imagine that those of you who are reading this are either thinking about purchasing this product or already have one and want to imbibe the shared joy of owning this fantastic light. Having owned a Niterider HID and a Jet lites halogen, I wanted something that offered more reliability and brightness at less weight.
It is the attention to detail that has separated this product from the rest of the field. The programmable charger and switch offer a customized set-up suitable for even the most discriminating rider. The casing is anodized, lightweight, easily adjustable, and installed with ease. The pcs switch is mounted either on your helmet (with helmet mount --sold separately) or within the reach of your thumb on the handlebars.
At 900 lumens on the high beam, it's hard not to be overwhelmed with the wide and illuminating spread. I know that the Light & Motion has similar lumen output, but it can not compete with the weight, design, size and efficiency of the Lupine -- not even close.
I've crashed with this thing attached. ridden with it in the cold, in the rain -- up hill, both ways. It still looks like new! This is a fantastic product that I adore and I am not ashamed to say I paid as much for it as I did. I wanted something of extreme quality and I found it in the Lupine.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rob lichtenwalner
a Racer
from bethlehem,pa usa Date Reviewed: November 16, 2005
Favorite Trail:
tow path
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
gretnabikes.com
Strengths:
the edison 5 is the lightest and brightest out there.
Weaknesses:
drivers like to stare into the light like a deer, then blame you because your light is to effective
Similar Products Used:
nightrider HID's
Bottom Line:
I have been using the lupine edison 5 for 2 years now. Due to a hectic work scheduel, the lights have had 10-15 hrs of use per week for those 2 years. They are the lightest and brightest lights i have ever seen. They have performed flawlessly through the elements, from pouring rain to 20 degree nights in the snow. It lights the trails as if it were 12 noon. What an advantage. Make your move in the night hours with a Lupine!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
george yung
a Cross Country Rider
from Hong Kong Date Reviewed: August 15, 2005
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
in the UK
Strengths:
The light is bright and lite with good running time (Edison5)
Weaknesses:
The first time out in the rain it managed to get moisture in side the lense. now their is a permanent hazy lens.I have try blow drying it with a hair dryer with no results. I will have wait for the bulb to be expired and have it cleaned and sealed proper when the new bulb is replaced.(sending it back to the UK)
Similar Products Used:
cats eye stadium
Bike Setup:
Klein attitude comp 2003 with upgraded parts
Bottom Line:
The light is very good for the intended use. I have had mine for over two years and use it 2-3 times aweek,about two hours everytime. I would recomend this product to the well healed biker. If you ride in the dark or commute to work I would pay for that extra visablity and the saftey for yourselve and for other road users to notice your presents.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Todd
a Racer
from NJ Date Reviewed: August 5, 2005
Favorite Trail:
single
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$759.00
Purchased At:
www.gretnabikes.com
Strengths:
Extreme bright, white - blue light Change time is fast Burn times up to 4 hours Light weight
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
HID Storm
Bike Setup:
anything with two wheels
Bottom Line:
This review is for a test I did for the Lupine Edison 5.
This is the light that I use for all of my 24 hours racing.It is simply the brightest bike light I have ever seen.The battery pack is very small and light, and everything mounts very quickly and simply. Plus it comes with a 2 year Warranty.
This the light to have for racing or training on the roads at night.
Bill from www.gretnabikes.com can help you out for getting the right lights that you need.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Randall L
a Cross Country Rider
from Olympia Date Reviewed: March 8, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Any road
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$799.00
Purchased At:
gretnabikes.com
Strengths:
Can burn the retinas of chasing dogs.
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
Light & Motion HID
Bottom Line:
Yup, this is the one. I’m a roadie and I ride mostly at night during the winters in Washington State. I use a Light and Motion HID as a low beam and the Edison 5 as a high beam. In town I can only run the L&M on low with the Lupine turned off in order to keep drivers from going ballistic. Once out on the back roads I bring the L&M up to high and fire up the Edison 5 on high. In this configuration I can light up the road for about an 8th of a mile like day time. The Edison 5 is extremely bright. I have noted that it’s not a harsh as the L&M but throws the beam farther. The delta between the two in about 150 lumens with the Edison coming in at 900. Battery life on the Edison 5 comes in right at 2.5 hrs on high. I like both of these lights. In regards to this review, the Edison 5 is a fine package and performs to the spec published by the manufacturer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ken
a Cross Country Rider
from Minneapolis, MN, USA Date Reviewed: October 7, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$635.00
Purchased At:
gretnabikes.com
Strengths:
Extremely bright light with really good color (white, not blue-ish like some HIDs) and a wide beam, easy but sturdy mounting system, high-quality Lithium Ion battery with an excellent charger (Lupine Charger 1), well-engineered cables and push-button control, quality build throughout.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
This is my first light.
Bike Setup:
Cannondale 3000SX-FS w/ Lefty, stock components
Bottom Line:
Yes, Lupine products cost a lot compared to other brands out there... but, I did a lot of research and it came down to a decision to pay the price to own the best and know that I am buying a product that is built to last a long time. As other reviewers have said, the light output of the Edison is so big/bright it can be startling to people when you approach them on the trail. The mounting system is so simple it takes less than 5 minutes and yet it holds very firmly. The charger was an unexpected plus... small and well desgined to give you a lot of information about what's going on during a charge (e.g. how much of the battery's capacity was refilled). The remote switch was another unexpected highlight... it works well and has a 2-level low battery indicator LED built in). As far as customer service, Bill and Jud at Gretnabikes are great to work with (especially for somebody like me that takes product research to extremes). The technical support guys at Lupine were also great in answering all my questions.
This is probably the best money I have ever spent on a bike upgrade/accessory.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a
from Sussex, NJ, USA Date Reviewed: September 25, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$740.00
Purchased At:
gretnabikes.com
Strengths:
unbelievably bright light, very long run time
Weaknesses:
none if it lasts
Similar Products Used:
cateye
Bike Setup:
turner 5-spot, trek 2300
Bottom Line:
I work long hours and use it to commute and for after hours playing. Not having to worry about having the light give out in the middle of nowhere is great. Doing a century after dinner is quite a concept. Had concerns about the price, but if it lasts it is well worth it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Hendershot
a Racer
from Grand Rapids MI Date Reviewed: November 18, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Secret V
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
www.gretnabikes.com
Strengths:
focused beam,easy to use,light weight,compact,super long burn time
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
Niterider,Light & Motion,Cygolite, Cateye, Vista
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Blur
Bottom Line:
I am a veteran 24 hour racer and have tested virtuality every system on the market and Lupine by far has the best product on the market.If you plan on doing any 24 hour racing the Edison is the only real choice.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim XCrider
a Racer
from UK Date Reviewed: November 12, 2003
Favorite Trail:
betws-y-coed
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$660.00
Purchased At:
bike factory
Strengths:
looooooooooooooooooong burn time Really bright wide central hot spot
Weaknesses:
price but it' better value than it's shorter burn subling edison 5
Similar Products Used:
edison 5. L&M ARC, Cateye Stadium
Bike Setup:
C'DAle F3000SL
Bottom Line:
after trying various lights I settled on the Edison10. better value than it's Edison5 sibling because the run time is twice as long at 8hours. the whole system is well thought out and made to a very high standard. The cost hurt but this is a light that willbe around for a long time. Don't need to charge it every time i use it either. Li-ion has no memory like NiMH and does not get lazy.
This is by far the best HID light available. \Fullstop
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim XCrider
a Racer
from UK Date Reviewed: October 14, 2003
Favorite Trail:
betws-y-coed
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
The Bike Factory
Strengths:
Sunlight in a Can!!! So light it must be a miniature sun behind the glass
Weaknesses:
PRICE!!
Similar Products Used:
Cateye ABS30, CAteye Stadium
Bike Setup:
Cannondale F3000SL, M965 XTR throughout
Bottom Line:
This review is for a test I did for the Lupine Edison 5.
The first time I opened the box of the Edison 5, I thought that perhaps this was not good value. Come on $700 for a light, I had to be on sommething right???!!
Mounted in on the bike and was surprised it took me only 1min 30secs to do so.
Started the ride in failing daylight and then within 30min the moment of truth. 'blick' and waited about 3 secs and suddenly there was a hell of lot of light around.
The beam itself is focussed in the centre but the light still fills in very well for about7 degress either side of you. The edges are a bit blury but once you're moving you don't notice that at all, just the bright single track in front of you. The cateye by comparison spreads it's light very evenly over a larger area.
In terms of outright performance it's hard to say that the Edison is nearly $300 better than the Stadium but consider that you are buying into very modern battery and charger technology with a control system that beats the pants of everything else with the possible exception of Topeaks Moonshine Pro. With Edison you get a light weight Li-ion battery, programmable charger ( although I find that only one programme is necessary - charge it fast and reliably) with an in-car adaptor and a smart control system.
I found the 10W setting to be more than adequate for trail riding and would be even for racing.
It's robust, extremely well made and fright fully expensive. Would I buy one? You bet cha! Would I buy one tomorrow? Heck no, I'll have to save for at least another month to justify it. Is it the Best? YES! Is it the best value? NO!
3 for value 4 for being a techncal tour de force. for joe public there are better ways to spend your money. For the serious racer, this is the kit you need to dazzle the opposition into submission.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Racer
from Carson City, NV Date Reviewed: September 29, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Tahoe Rim Trail / Douthat State Park, VA
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
gretnabikes.com
Strengths:
Extremely bright white light Lightweight Easy to put on/take off Super long run time Great battery charge system
Weaknesses:
Cost
Similar Products Used:
Older Niterider systems
Bike Setup:
S-Works Epic
Bottom Line:
A really great product. The light quality is phenomenal - an extremely bright white light that washes out everything around you. It's quick to turn on and restart (unlike some other HIDs). It is really simple to set up and take off and doesn't scratch my bars.
I raced with it in the solo category at the 24 Hours of Tahoe and the battery didn't run out all night! On one of my laps, I ran across a racer whose light had gone out at the top of the 15 min. long downhill. I had him ride in front of me - he was able to see well enough to turn in one of his faster nighttime laps. And I didn't even need to turn on the high beam!
Instead of rushing home from work nowadays to get in a ride before nighttime, I'll wait till the sun goes down just so I can use the light. If you can afford it, buy this light.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ivan B
a Cross Country Rider
from Minneapolis USA+Australia Date Reviewed: September 13, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Farm, Brownie lake, Maah Daah Hey
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
gretnabikes.com
Strengths:
Loooong run times 5h25m on highbeam. Light weight. Easy to set up and use.
Weaknesses:
Potential theft from riders with dull lights. HA HA HA
Similar Products Used:
Turbocat 7years old and was still brighter then most new lights.
Bike Setup:
ElSaltamontes 5+5 , Z1,CK, Thomson, XTR etc
Bottom Line:
This light is sensational. Have used it for 5 or 6 rides so far. Low beam is brighter then niterider HID on trail test. Friends ride behind or in front and just poach my light. Freaks people out on cycle paths. (think I am a motorbike). Usual comment is wholly @$#^#@%@ thats bright but what is the burntime? 5+ hours.#*&%@#%@(%&%#! I got to start saving now! Helmet mount is the way to go. Awesome German engineering. My car lights seem dull after a ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Eatough
a Racer
from Baldwin, MD, USA Date Reviewed: September 12, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
mtgretnabikes.com
Strengths:
pure lighting power lightweight long burn time reliability
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
Lupine Nightmare Ion Light n Motion HID Nightrider HID
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel
Bottom Line:
This is the light that I used to win the 2003 Worlds Solo 24 Hours of Adrenalin Championship. It is simply the brightest bike light I have ever seen. I could see as clearly as during the day, even in the dark British Columbia forest. The battery pack is very small and light, and everything mounts very quickly and simply. Lupine is a German company, and the quality engineering really shows. These lights are changing the face of night riding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Racer
from Lake Orion, MI Date Reviewed: July 24, 2003
In the past I have owned the HID Light & Motion Arc Cabeza, HID Niterider Storm, and the HID Niterider Blow Torch. These lights worked well. After trying the Lupine Edison though, I found a whole new level in night lighting function, weight, and power. Charging system: The lupine lithium ion battery charger with its digital display including volt and amp read outs gives you much more confidence in the battery life. Battery: Lithium ion battery provides 5/10 hours of light (16/10watt settings) with the water bottle battery system and 2.5/5 hours of light with the jersey soft pack battery for helmet mount Lupine Edison use(My favorite).
The Light: The whole Lupine system oozes quality. When the package is opened, you see right away that the increased cost of this light system is reflected in the componentry. The Edison can be mounted bar or helmet fashion. I had to use the light in a bar mount fashion as I was waiting for the helmet mount gear to arrive. Having done a whole lot of night riding with a group of serious riders, we have all quickly come to the conclusion that bar mounts are great for sidewalks, helmet mounts are for the single track! Over half of the night riding experience is lost too with a bar mount as you miss out on the ability to view your surroundings as you ride. The bar mount lights also cause you to overshoot turns in the single track. The HID Niterider lights are a tad bit brighter than the HID Light & Motion lights. The downfall with the Niterider Storm is that its mount system and the heavy light-ballast combo that sits on top of your helmet pulls down on the front of your helmet. This can be irritating. The Lupine Edison has a great fully adjustable helmet mount system. The Lamps weight on your helmet goes unnoticed. The output of the Edison is astonishing in comparison to other HID lights! I have been riding with guys using The Storm lights and we all noticed the difference of the Edison. The Edison on its 10watt setting is equal to the Storms. The 16watt mode turns night into day! The complete light system is also subsantially lighter than any other HID.
Another thing I noticed about the lupine was that the bulb "ignition" time is much quicker than other HID systems. This alone isn't a huge issue but it leads me to believe that the lupine is the only system that uses an electronic ballast as opposed to a magnetic ballast which are cheaper, heavier, less efficient, and take longer to warm up. This would be one of the additional reasons that the lupine system is lighter(electronic ballasts are much lighter), more energy efficient(electronic ballasts are more efficient) and of course - more costly. I used to be into reef systems and so have learned quite abit about HID lighting. And no, Am not with lupine. I just feel that a smaller company that has produced a great product deserves a fair review.
The light was purchased through Gretnabikes.com. Bill and Jud were very helpful and reliable. Sure the light is expensive, but you can actually see the advantges of this system immediately. As a racer, I have purchased many frames and components that were quite pricey, but did not provide any real world advantages beyond name recognition. The Lupine Edison is one of the few high end mountain biking products that provides for such a dramatic performance increase in its field!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael Bennett
a Racer
from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: June 26, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Fat B*tch's Garter Belt
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Gretnabikes.com
Strengths:
Light, bright, long burn-times, short charge-time, hi/low settings, etc.
Weaknesses:
Price
Similar Products Used:
NR Storm HID, TurboCat, Vista
Bike Setup:
Seven Ti disc-only singlespeed, SID World Cup, FSA Carbon Pro cranks, FSA Platinum Pro Ti ISIS BB, FSA XC-120 stem, 959s, SLR, King rear disc SS hub, Formula B4 SL brakes, Moots post, Stan's, etc.
Bottom Line:
Finally, the sun was setting at the "2003 Chico Racing 24 Hrs of Summer Solstice". I was currently in third place, but the effects of the heat and sun were beginning to wear on me. I was anxious for the coolness of the night to provide some much-needed relief. With each passing minute as the sun was setting, I was being to feel like a new man again. I felt refreshed and invigorated. Also, I thrive in night-riding so I was looking forward to strapping on the Lupine Edison helmet light.
As the sun began to disappear, I rode back into base-camp to mount my Edison helmet light. The Edison is truly a bar-mounted light, but can easily be mounted on the helmet with the very secure mount.
My first few evening/dusk laps didn't really require a light, but periodically, I'd switch on my back-up bar-mounted TurboCat S15 to get through the darker forested singletrack sections. With a single 5.5 Ah Li-Ion soft-case battery and 11 Ah Li-Ion hard water bottle battery, I was ensured anywhere from 7.5 hrs burn-time on high (16W; 5hrs with large battery and 2.5 hrs with small) to a whopping 12 hrs on low (10W; 8 hrs with large battery and 4 hrs with small), or anything in between depending on my requirements. Since the race was held on Summer Solstice (longest day of the year), I didn't actually need to turn on the Edison until just after 9:30pm. My plan was to start with the small 5.5 Ah battery pack and run the Edison on high and go for about 2.5 hrs, and then switch to the larger battery. In the interim while using the larger battery, the smaller battery would be charging (3 hrs) so it would be ready-to-go, if required. As it turned-out, the low setting on the Edison was more than enough to handle the tight-n-twisty-n-technical singletrack, so I was able to squeeze out ~4.5 hrs (3 laps) with the small battery, which still had juice left, but switched to the larger battery for the remainder of the night. The small 5.5 Ah Li-Ion battery pack is easily stored in a jersey pocket and is not even noticeable...it's that light and that small. Very nice.
Using the Edison as a helmet light, I have to be careful not to shine the Edison into onlooker's eyes, because it is very, very bright. The time-keeping volunteers would be sure to remind me if I forgot as I entered the transition start/finish tent. But, the confused and dazed looks on their faces with their squinty eyes and one hand over their eyes was reminder enough for me as I entered with the timing tent.
Using the Edison is like cheating. I lost count of the number of racers that commented to me: "Wow! That light is bright!" To which I replied: "Yes...and this is on the low setting too! What until you see the high setting!"
Negotiating the singletrack was particularly entertaining since I was able to see absolutely every trail detail despite using only a helmet light on low. Most racers were using 2 lights: a bar-mounted and a helmet-mounted light. This was absolutely not necessary with the Edison. The only reason I even had my bar-mounted TurboCat S15 was as “just-in-case” back-up light. I’ve been racing 24 hour races for 9-yrs and I’ve lost count of the number of racers I’ve seen walking the course with zero light. That can’t be fun.
Some other things I noted during the race with the Edison was that people hate it when you race behind them. In fact, the second place rider (I was in third at the time) demanded that I pass him because my Edison was too bright and causing him vision problems due to the shadow it was casting. He asked me: "Do you want to pass?" "Um, no, I'm OK here." He was going at a nice pace so I didn't feel the need to pass. He then said: "No, please pass me. Your light is driving me nuts!" So, I passed him. My Edison, even on low, was casting such a bright and broad light that it was casting his shadow in front of him and also drowning-out his miniscule halogen lights.
For the most part, the night laps proceeded like clock-work. The only mechanical I had (not much can go wrong on a singlespeed, right?) was at 2:00am when a 1" branch jammed itself between my rear rotor and chainstay. This pried the rotor into the inboard piston/caliper-side. I didn't notice it right at the time, I just pulled out the branch and kept racing. First downhill, I grabbed my brakes and no rear! Fortunately, the front is so strong and well modulated, I didn't even need the rear. I got off the bike, looked for possible leaks, etc., at the caliper...nothing. In looking from behind, I noticed the rotor was butted right-up against the inboard piston. “Oh no!” I thought to myself. Every rider who passed asked if I needed any help, etc., but there was nothing they could do for me. So, I had no rear brake and had to ride the remaining 10km with a permanently dragging brake.
Once back at base-camp, I removed the rear rotor from my back-up bike and installed it on my primary bike. A little fiddling and I was ready-to-go. Unfortunately, that little bit of rest took its toll on me as I was starting to tighten-up, plus I was getting cold. I decided to take some time off. All-in-all, I was off for ~2.5 hrs. At which point, I decided if I was going to get back on the bike, I had to do it now before my muscles really tightened-up. I grabbed some fresh clothes and headed-back out.
Ultimately, I ended-up finishing 6th out of 34 racers. This was my first 24 hr solo race, but certainly not my last. I thrived on the challenge of racing for 24 hr solo and I also enjoyed the added challenge of doing it on a singlespeed against 33 other 24-/27-speed racers. Special thanks has to go out to my very supportive wife, Cari, and my incredible 2-and-a-half year-old son, Tyler for his constant “Go Daddy, go!” cheering!
In the following paragraphs, I’d like to provide a little more information with regards to the Edison, and in particular, a head-to-head comparison against the NiteRider Storm HID.
The construction and attention to detail on the Lupine Edison is truly incredible. Pictures cannot do the light, battery, charger, etc. justice. American lighting companies have a few things to learn from Lupine. Every conceivable consideration has been factored-in by the engineers at Lupine. It is a very well thought-out system. Other companies claim to have a smart charger, but the Lupine is truly a smart charger.
Prior to the race, I had an opportunity to borrow a fellow soloist's NiteRider Storm HID and was able to compare the two lights head-to-head.
First, the NR's mounting bracket with the ratchet increments does not seem to be very secure. It only takes a little bit for the light to jump down to the next ratchet increment. Also, the head-unit seems to swivel laterally in the bracket. There is a screw in the underside of the bracket, but it is covered by a Velcro strip. The Edison mounts securely to the head-mount unit and is allowed to swivel up/down, but remains in it’s position. Surprisingly, during a test ride, the NR Storm did not move as I anticipated it would, and remained in the appropriate position.
In comparing the beams, they are nearly identical in pattern. This is understandable since both have bulbs manufactured by Welch-Allyn. However, the Edison is ever-so-slightly broader at the center, whereas, the Storm is more of a spot.
Both lights appear to have the same ring pattern when shining against a white wall and both cast the same effective outer diameter. In looking at the reflectors within each bulb, they both appear to be identical. Even on low (10W), the Edison was only a tad dimmer than the NR. On high, the Edison is noticeably brighter than the Storm.
Color-wise, the two are different. The NR Storm HID is far more blue whereas the Lupine Edison is whiter.
Weight-wise, the NR Storm head-unit is 207g vs. 169g. The NR Storm battery is 730g vs. 530g. Total system weight = 973g for the NR Storm and 699g for the Edison. The distribution of the weight is nearly centered with the Edison whereas with the NR, it is definitely cantilevered forward. I had to really tighten my helmet straps to avoid excessive helmet movement. Another fellow soloist with a NR Storm commented during the 24 hrs race that his neck was beginning to get tired. He attributed it to the helmet-mounted NR Storm. I never experienced any neck problems during my night laps.
I'd like to personally thank Bill Gentile and Jud Umberger @ Gretnabikes.com for the Edison. As well, I'd like to thank Jud for his best efforts to get me a spare 5.5 Ah Li-Ion soft-case battery only days before the race, but unfortunately, UPS couldn't deliver on-time even though it was sent Expedited with guaranteed delivery by Friday. The battery arrived Monday morning....too late UPS. Also, I’d like to thank Mike Waller @ Lupine for his continued technical support. The Gretnabikes/Lupine combination is truly a unique teaming that yields incredible results!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chadwick Carey
a Cross Country Rider
from West Chester, Pa, (Philadelphia Burbs) Date Reviewed: January 22, 2003
Favorite Trail:
French Creek State Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
gretnabikes.com
Strengths:
A no compromise product. If you want the best you will have to pay. Superior build quality. Very bright light. Very light battery and a 5 hour burn time.... WOW
Weaknesses:
Expensive
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Ventana Pantera with allthe goodies.
Bottom Line:
Great light. Incredably bright. I told Bill at Gretna Bikes I would review this light once I got out on a few rides and had a chance to compare the Lupine to other brands. My friends have various lights the only thing even close would be the Niterider HID. Compared to The Niterider HID the Lupine had a whiter light, wider beam, and the light reached further down the trail. The build quality is truly superior with a more compact design and lighter overall weight. With a 5 hour burn time it has the longest burn time out there. I have not been on the trail long enough for it to run out of power and I run on the high beam the whole time. If you got the dough and you want to buy just one light then get the Lupine Edison. I think this light will last for years. To buy this light go to www.gretnabikes.com . Bill is a cool guy and very helpful. You can be assured you are buying your light from a true bike enthusiast. The whole product line is top quality you can check it out at www.Lupine.de
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Submitted by
Jason Wright
a Racer
from Nottingham, England. Date Reviewed: November 30, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
www.lupine.de
Strengths:
The power and clarity of the light produced by the metal halide bulb and the reflector is outstanding.'Supernova'is probably the most appropriate word to use to describe the effect. The materials and construction of the lamp housing are high quality, the best i've seen personally. The on-off switch is very small and unobtrusive on the handlebar. You don't want a sytem where the switch is built into the lamp housing, it's just not as easy to use that way- it needs to beat your fingertips on the bar, but not too big like some other lights i've seen. Great battery burn time.
Weaknesses:
The battery bottle possibly needs some kind of finger groove just to make sure it isn't going to slip through your fingers on cold or wet days when carrying it to and from the bike. The price will always be an issue but generally you get what you pay for, so in that sense the Edison is great value.
Similar Products Used:
Nothing similar. Was considering the Niterider metal halide lights but the warranty was only one year, whereas the Edison is two years.
Bike Setup:
Klein. Mavic. The usual suspects.
Bottom Line:
If you ride at night regularly and depend on a good light for your personal safety then this light should be at the top of your wish list. I doubt there is anything better out there. The lithium-ion battery is giving over eight hours of burn time before a recharge is necessary. That's a stella no-brainer for my weekly commuting regime! Finally, it worked first time straight out of the box, and that's really important for me- no hassles.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Eatough
a Racer
from Baldwin, MD, 21013 Date Reviewed: October 16, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
gretnabikes.com
Strengths:
Incredible brightness Lightweight Simplicity and reliability
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
Lupine Nightmare pro
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel 100
Bottom Line:
I used this light at the recent 2002 24 Hours of Moab. The power of this unit is incredible, even brighter than the Lupine Nightmare (see review on mtbr.com). Burn time is also longer (I don't know how long since I havn't been able to make the battery run out yet!) During the race, competitors were blown away as I came up and passed them by the power of my lights. Several racers tracked me down in the pits afterwards to comment on the light and ask me what I was using.
$
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