|
|
|
| |
Submitted by
Inigo Questa
a Weekend Warrior
from Eeklo, Belgium
Date Reviewed: October 4, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Cycle track | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$230.00 | | Purchased At: | John Bruneel | | Strengths: | Light weight. Easy toremove when parked up. Bright. Decent runtime. Swivel heads. | | Weaknesses: | None so far. Even the battery is pretty light for a lead acid. | | Similar Products Used: | Cateye triple shot. | | Bike Setup: | Vintage Raleigh cyclo cross. | | Bottom Line: | The instructions suggest you wouldn't use the 6w when you are using the 15w. I find the 6w is good for illuminating the foreground while the 15w picks out the distance. I only travel around 45 minutes on completely unlit track on a 2 hour run, so mostly just have the 6w on. Still plenty of juice in the battery at the end. As the lams are designed to hang below the bars, little risk of damage and no need to remove when fixing punctures. They beat the cateye any day Only four chillies for overall rating as there are better lights watt for watt (e.g. Nightflux) but they are a lot more expensive. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jamie
a Cross Country Rider
from Penticton
Date Reviewed: August 12, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Peat Bog/Code 4 & 3 Blind Mice | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$250.00 | | Strengths: | Simple design, Damn Bright, and most importantly "crashable". I run the Dual Spectrums on my bars and the Firefly on my Helmet. | | Weaknesses: | Vinyl switch covers, lasted a ride or two, came of in a crash and obviously couldn't find them. Having said that, lack of covers have had no adverse effect. As I live in the Sunny Okanagan with very little rain. Occassionally have to replug wiring lead to the lamp itself. | | Similar Products Used: | Vista, My poor brother and his buddy always end up finishing our night rides on my beams. | | Bike Setup: | Norco Fireball, 2001 | | Bottom Line: | Best Bang for Buck on the market. Easy to mount on and quick to take off. Mounting hardware is discreet enough when not in use. Burn time is where it should be in relation to the competition. Good system for any rider especially good for the single track. I use the 10watt, when climbing or slow technical riding, use both the 10 and 15 watt when running at speed. As with any light set, power conservation is Key to your riding enjoyment. Keep up the good work Pete! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Robert
a Cross Country Rider
from North Vancouver, BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: February 11, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Neds | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$120.00 | | Purchased At: | Cove Bikes | | Strengths: | Easy installation and maintenance.
Excellent lumination with 10W bulb.
Excellent batter life. | | Weaknesses: | Zilch. | | Similar Products Used: | Cats Eye | | Bike Setup: | Cove Stiffee, Hayes mechanical, Marzochi Z5 | | Bottom Line: | I bought this light at least 6 years ago. There was a period where I didn't touch light/battery for 3 years, and without charging the battery I used the setup for 1-1/2 hours in the trails and it still was shining bright! The 10W bulb is great for the North Shore; even at -5C in the snow, the battery lasts for hours. I recently purchased another 15W light (for high beam), and not only does the combo light bring daylight to the woods, with both lights on the burn time is about an hour and a half. Oh, and my older light has no switch cover, and I've never had a problem. Rain, mud, crashes - it just keeps on working. Great recommendation from Cove Bikes - they rock! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Robert
a Weekend Warrior
from Augusta, GA USA
Date Reviewed: November 29, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | ebay | | Strengths: | Easy mounting, quick release is great, switches work well. | | Weaknesses: | Light pattern is way to weak. Even with 15 watts it is not as bright as Vista Light night stick. | | Similar Products Used: | any light system | | Bike Setup: | Giant Rainer SE, upgraded rims, tires, and rear derailer | | Bottom Line: | This light is weak. I checked the light pattern on another page and bought it because of the great light pattern.
Well the light pattern I got is way weaker than what I saw. It does give a large light pattern but not bright enough to ride without a helmet light. The exposure time of the photo made it brighter than it really is.
The 10 watt has a big black dot right in the middle of the light pattern. 5 watt is so weak it adds nothing to the light pattern.
Riding usuing just this light I have to slow down to much.
IF you use this light make sure you get a helmet light like the Vista Light Night Stick which has a great spot beam (Vista has a smaller beam pattern but way brighter)
For the bucks it is a nicely made system. Having ridden in Ontario Canada before I am familar with Canadian products. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason
a Cross Country Rider
from Acton Vale, Qc, Canada
Date Reviewed: October 14, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Low price
Great company support
Blt are now starting to show up at 24hr races (2001 season), just a few, but heh, that's a start!
| | Weaknesses: | I have both the Blazer and the twin Explorer models. If you race 24hrs events then you have to flip your lights over your handlebars or cut off some of your plate number. | | Similar Products Used: | A use a NiteRider Headtrip for a helmet light. | | Bike Setup: | Fisher SuperCaliber. | | Bottom Line: | Great lights for a great price. The Blazer battery died on me after the 2001 24 hrs of Summer Solstice (near Toronto), and Blt send a new one to my LBS at no charge to me, even if my one year warranty was up. So soon after I bought the Dual Explorer kit in show of support. Now if Blt would be at all the 24hrs events in Canada. All they have to do is hitch a ride with the Norco truck right? | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David
a Cross Country Rider
from Edmonton, AB, CANADA!!!
Date Reviewed: June 8, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | Revolution Cycle | | Strengths: | Canadian Made
Price
So bloody bright for 10W | | Weaknesses: | Battery was dead when I bought it. Customer service was great and had it replaced within a week throught the bike store | | Similar Products Used: | NADA | | Bike Setup: | Rocky Elevation 2001, Bomber Z5, 747's, 5W on handlebars and 10W on helmet | | Bottom Line: | I bought these lights because they were Canadian made and had great reviews off of this site. I had heard of the problems with the batteries and so was a little bit cautious, but they seemed like the best deal out there and they were such a great price (considering how much you can pay...) When I got mine, the battery was dead, but had it exchanged quickly for a brand new one, no questions asked. The BLT light guy responds to his email really quickly and is very helpful. If you want a good light and don't want to put out 200+ dollars, I suggest taking a look at the BLT firefly. Great little headlamp with some strong power. Straps well to the helmet and the battery is hardly noticeable in a backpack. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lee Neville
a Cross Country Rider
from Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
Date Reviewed: March 2, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Good light with a smart lighting area. Good battery, charge it and forget it. | | Weaknesses: | none so far, may have to ovalize the ends so they dont become accidently pulled free on the trail. You should have fault tolerance with any type of light you buy anyways. Tape the connections together if need be. | | Similar Products Used: | Vistalites | | Bike Setup: | Does it matter? | | Bottom Line: | Great lights. Canadian made. I have had no problems with switches as others may have. Routinely ride well below freezing and they perform great. The way they mount is certainly different and looks like it may be a weak spot but trust me, the mounting system works. No hassle once you have them where you want them. Get an old bike tube if they dont fit your bars. The light beam isnt adjustable but the way they have designed the seeep it doesnt have to be. Really good lights I think. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
lo_dee
a Cross Country Rider
from Southern Alberta, Canada
Date Reviewed: February 27, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Paradise Canyon | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | Bert and Macs | | Strengths: | Great light spectrum. Excellent mounts. Strong cabling and switches. Good burn time. Low price. | | Weaknesses: | Big bottle battery. Slow charging 10-12 hours. | | Similar Products Used: | Cateye micro-halogen | | Bottom Line: | These lights have given me an extended riding season. Just because the sun sets earlier in the winter doesn't mean you can't ride fast and with confidence at night! These lights give a bright light that is very broad with no dark spots. I ride mostly using the 6 watt until I hit a hairy section then the 15 watt leaves nothing to chance. I can decend fast, and with the broad beam cornering isn't totally blind (although a head lamp is still better for turning overall). If you want a quality light setup, you can't go wrong with these. I have ridden them in -15 C with windchill and they still perform. Cabling is strong with good connectors and the switches are easily accessible and have worked great despite what others have whined about. Made by a Canadian company that knows our climate. The burn times are accurate on the Norco site. I routinely go for 2hours and don't have to worry about riding home in darkness. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steven Ferry
a Cross Country Rider
from Reading, England
Date Reviewed: January 16, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Good roads | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$75.00 | | Purchased At: | Action Cycles | | Strengths: | Manufacture support, bright light, water proof | | Weaknesses: | I have had one failed battery - but this was replaced on warranty | | Similar Products Used: | Cat Eye | | Bike Setup: | Road bike used for long distance commuting | | Bottom Line: | These light were great when I bought them and then the battery life just died. I emailed the guy at BLT (Peter Stace-Smith [peterss@norco.com]) and explaned what had happened. We exchanged a few emails and he decided that I had a battery where one of the cells had died. Six days later a new fully charged battery arrives from Canada. These lights are great and the company really backs up their product. I ride with other people sometimes who have paid almost twice as much for lights that are no better.
The bottom line - Great lights - get some. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Aberdeen, SCOTLAND
Date Reviewed: January 3, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | anything local | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | Alpine Bikes, Aberdeen | | Strengths: | BRIGHT
1st Class Customer Service
easy to setup and use | | Weaknesses: | burn time on the Spectrum model really gets affected when the temp gets low! | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | Cannondale 700SL | | Bottom Line: | I bought both the Blitz & Spectrum models and the bottom line is THESE LIGHTS ARE AWESOME!!!!!
the lights are light, bright and can also take it a hit when you take a fall.
When you use them on the trails, they really light everything up. The Blitz model needs to be seen in action to believe it, the 15w of BRIGHT white light where ever you point your head is brilliant.
The only problem I've come across is that the burn time on the Spectrum battery really gets hit when the temperature drops. I've got my battery wrapped up in a few pairs of thick wooly socks and have also thrown in a gel hand warmer for good measure, this seems to help.
Customer service is also GOOD, I managed to snap the handle bar mounts when I took a tumble a few weeks back. I e-mailed Peter (BLT guy) and received a prompt reply and also a new set of mounts in the post!
My ideal setup would be two Blitz helmet lights and one handle bar light.
Serioulsy do yourself a favour and invest in the Blitz helmet light you won't regret it.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kenny
a Cross Country Rider
from Calgary, Alberta
Date Reviewed: November 24, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | The bulk of Canada west of my house | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Price
BRIGHT
metal housings
customer service | | Weaknesses: | seemingly takes forever to re-charge (maybe not unique to BLT - my Vista takes a long time too)
rubber switch condoms are coming off | | Similar Products Used: | Vistalite 5w | | Bike Setup: | '99 Rocky Element & '92 Kona Cinder Cone (commuter) | | Bottom Line: | I run the BLT Spectrum 15/20 watt combo (use my Vista on my helmet).
I did months of research on lights before my first 24 Hour race in Canmore this summer. I found the BLTs to be, by far, the best value for me. In addition to being a great value, they have performed flawlessly through hours of riding so far and have provided burn times right around what they are said to provide in the literature (even in sub-zero temps the past few weeks on the way to and from work). I can also attest to the benefits of having the lights set up under the bar as I've crashed with no damage at all (although this was a problem at the 24 hour race....number plate blocked out the lights - no problem, flip mounts up instead).
The customer service has also come in handy and I can vouch for the fact that Peter the BLT Guy is first class. I had a really stupid set up question that Pete responded to (email) VERY quickly.
Oh, for what it's worth, the red anodized metal housings look super cool...way cooler than anything else I've seen.
Buy these lights and be done with it!!!! They are a great value for everyone from daily comuter to 24 Hour Race freak (although you'll need a couple of spare batteries if you race solo - you freak of nature!!) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tod Strickland
a Cross Country Rider
from Edmonton
Date Reviewed: November 10, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Terwilliger Park | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$45.00 | | Purchased At: | Red Bike | | Strengths: | I have used 3 different BLT lights over the past 10 years and have been very, very happy with them. Latest is a black plastic 15W single that is excellent. Goes on and comes off the handlebars easily, small and portable and blindingly bright. | | Weaknesses: | Can't think of any weaknesses. | | Similar Products Used: | A wide variety of AA battery powered lights. This beats them solidly. | | Bike Setup: | 1997 KHS Sport with a Terry Liberator Seat, suspension seat post, RST shocks up front and over 15,000 km. | | Bottom Line: | For a commuter who likes to go off road every chance that he/she can, this light is excellent. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver
Date Reviewed: October 25, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | Kick a$$ lights and customer service. | | Weaknesses: | Old switches. | | Similar Products Used: | Only light set I've ever used. | | Bike Setup: | Rocky Hammer Race. Using a set of Spectrum (10W, 15W)handle bar mounted lights and a Blitz (15W) helmet light. | | Bottom Line: | This is not a review to blow smoke up anyone's a$$. I just want to say that the lights are excellent and the customer service is even better.
Last week my lights completly went on me during a very ugly night in the UEL. I visited this site to see if anybody had experienced the same problem with the Spectrums as I had and if there was a fix. Someone had posted how they had talked with "the BLT Guy" Peter and how helpful he was so I thought I would drop him an email. Well long story short, Peter said I had a set of lights with the old faulty switches and to send the lights in to him and he would get them fixed up. Peter was good to his word and I received my lights last night by courier. The old style switches were replaced and I got a new power lead and it didn't cost me a penny.
If you are looking for a great set of lights, for a reasonable price, and a company that stands behind their products buy a set of BLT's! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from Kanta, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: October 16, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Price, Connectors | | Weaknesses: | Switch Covers | | Bottom Line: | I have used the Spectrum and Firefly for a year now. I use them for commuting and twice a week on the local trails. I strongly suggest having both handle bar and helmet mounted lights. I have plenty of light for a 1.5-2 hour ride even when the temperature dips to freezing.
The only annoying thing about these lights is the flaky plastic switch cover, which falls off after a couple of rides.
At the price point, the BLT lights are an exceptional value. BLT has thought of the little things. Since the lights mount under the bar, they are safe from the trees, rocks and falls which break off the lights my friends have. All the connectors are the simple RCA type. When the cables get snagged on branches, the connectors simply pull apart with no damage to the connector, light or the battery (they fit tightly enough so that they don't accidentally come apart). Some complain about the plastic mounts, I don't mind them since they make it really simple to take the lights on and off the bike.
I have received excellent service from Peter 'the BLT Guy'. He is cheerfully providing me with a replacement bulb, which, in his opinion failed earlier than it, should have.
I would (and have) recommend these lights to anyone who wants a set of workhorse lights, which don't cost a fortune. If I had to do it over again, I would certainly buy BLT lights, except instead of the Spectrum/Firefly combination, I would get the Blazer and the Blitz. You don't need two lights on the bar and a brighter helmet mount would be good.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason
a Weekend Warrior
from Menifee, CA. USA
Date Reviewed: August 11, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | I am using the BLT Explorer: Low light when I need it and bright light for when I need that. Its easy to use and to set-up on the bike. | | Weaknesses: | The switch covers become un-glued( I just put a strip of tape over it and its still on. ) | | Similar Products Used: | Mag-Charger(great light but to big), little bike headlights. | | Bottom Line: | This is a great product and it works well when the going gets tuff. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Madigan
a Weekend Warrior
from Brisbane, Queensland , Australia
Date Reviewed: May 16, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | None | | Weaknesses: | Too numerous for the space provided | | Similar Products Used: | Cateye | | Bike Setup: | Avanti Barracuda MTB | | Bottom Line: | Light set: Q34 twin with gas gauge.
The problem may have been with the supplier - old stock. The cable ends were not secure; read instructions; ovalise the ends!!!! Electrical contact by jamming the wire down the side of the bulb holder????? I did read the instructions before using the lights and did charge the battery for 9 hours. That was the last charge that it held. The indicator on the charger went out and never came on again; needless to say the battery never charged again.
I did find the instruction sheet very condascending when describing possible faults and initial set up. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
A Wheelman
a Cross Country Rider
from Canada
Date Reviewed: March 30, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | moonlit | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Emits photons, less expensive than some, real metal housing, the angle of both beams is adjustable independently | | Weaknesses: | cheesy plastic clamps are also sharp (ouch!), waterproof covers on switches will fall off and get lost | | Similar Products Used: | Vistalite 500 10W single, Cateye 500 and 500II bar lights, the old Union lights with all the dark lines, the old BLT that was the size of a coke can, Mini Maglite taped to handlebars. | | Bike Setup: | '89 Bridgestone MB-2, Manitou shocks, flat bars | | Bottom Line: | I am talking about the dual beam bar mount Spectrum. It's a good set of MTB lights, at a medium price (but I got a deal on mine).
The 10 watt bulb is a wide angle beam, which is better off road than the Vistalite 10W spot (I can see further ahead when it's pointed down, and more to the side). In fact it almost makes the high beam superfluous, though with the VL I was convinced I needed a dual light. I think having the 15 on the helmet would be a better way to go. The 15 is a spot beam, and is better for use on the road on my way home from the trail. Off road I find that it doesn't add much to visibility in most situations.
The plastic mounts are suspect, but haven't broken yet, and replacements ARE available (my LBS had 'em). My other high powered light, the Vistalite 5xx, has a better bracket that doesn't leave anything on the bike (I still use it on my road and commuter bikes).
I don't need any more light than this- too much light at night ruins the mood. All in all, except for the merely OK mounting brackets it's a pretty good light set. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
A Wheelman
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto
Date Reviewed: March 30, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | dark and twisty in the woods, or moonlit and open with no lights (eek!) | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Good value for price, | | Weaknesses: | The mounts. I cut my knee the first day I had them (before it got dark) - then I moved em towards the cmap, rotated them forward under the bar, and had no more problems. The mounts stay on the bike, and I don't like plastic brackets that stay on the bike, but that's just me. It makes it hard to move the set between bikes, especially if I don't want to leave the mounts on the road bike. | | Similar Products Used: | Vistalite 500, Cateye 500, those funky Union lights with the lines, Union generator powering a Sanyo light, Mini Mag-Lite taped to my handle bars | | Bike Setup: | Bridgestone MB-2 with Manitou shocks, flat bars. | | Bottom Line: | I am talking about the 10/15 watt Spectrum. Good lights for mountain biking. My other high power light (a Vistalite 500 single) is arguably better for other applications but not off road.
The 10 watt has a wide angle beam which makes it, by itself, better for trail riding than my 10 watt spot beam VL-500. The flood pattern is like adding another light to the VL- I can see further ahead while still lighting up what's right in front of my tire, and I can see more to the sides.
Because of that, the high beam is almost superfluous. I think the 15W spot would be better on my helmet than the bars, I don't use it much because it doesn't add a lot of visibility in most cases. I do use it on the road on my way back from the trails, or on straight flat sections.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rich
a Weekend Warrior
from Phoenix, AZ
Date Reviewed: January 17, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | South Mountain, Mormon/National | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Weight
Powerful
Bright | | Weaknesses: | None so far | | Similar Products Used: | N/A | | Bike Setup: | '99 Cannondale F2000 w/ Titec Riser bar | | Bottom Line: | So, I feel like an outsider here being that I am from USA. However, I have heard that the riding in Vancouver, BC is amazing, so any product used up there must be of good quality. Anyway, I got the 10w and 15w Spectrum bar and the Firefly helmet light. i have only used them a few times, but they are by far the most value added upgrade that I have made.
Lots of light when needed. I typically use the 10w bar and the helmet light when riding. Easy to set-up and good burn time. I will give a more detailed review when I put some miles on these things. But so far, they are great. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dan
a Cross-Country Rider
from Cambridge, Ontario
Date Reviewed: January 4, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Light and compact are added bonuses. Awesome light output. Canadian. Non-American | | Weaknesses: |
Crappy rubber switches come off to easily. Re-charge time for the battery | | Similar Products Used: |
None | | Bike Setup: |
'99 Marin Rocky Ridge | | Bottom Line: | Great system for the cost. I use my lights about 3 nights a week and they light up the trails and roads | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rodney
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary Canada
Date Reviewed: December 5, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
good run time I just run 6 wats on the bar. | | Weaknesses: |
No problems have used them in 2 24hr races have worked great | | Similar Products Used: |
This the only lights I have used | | Bike Setup: |
1999 Cannadale Super V900 head shock front rear fox coil over | | Bottom Line: | This is a great light pluse it is Canadian that makes it even better I have a 6w and 15w I only use the 6 unless its a very bad down hill the run time is great the batter runs for every on 6w a secound batter is great. The light has been on a few hard crash's but still works in rain for 5 hours snow and mud. I would give it 5 but have never used anything but blt. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Baldwin
a Cross-Country Rider
from Watlington, Oxon
Date Reviewed: November 14, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
All over the chilterns ( know them like the back of my hand). | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
With 6 Watt and 15 Watt bulbs the lights give good versatlity for both road and trail. Even fast single track.
Good battery life. Tidy and light. | | Weaknesses: |
The rubber covers over the switches are easily lost and once water gets into the switches they fail to work.
This is the only weak spot but it is a big one, as mine failed on a fast wet decent . | | Bike Setup: |
Kona cindercone Rockshox forks | | Bottom Line: | Good lights crap switches, The only flaw. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alan Grandy
a Cross-Country Rider
from Toronto
Date Reviewed: November 14, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Ravenshoe | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Great battery life | | Weaknesses: |
Serious problem in all the RCA jack style connectors | | Bottom Line: | Ensure that BLT has fixed the wiring problems before purchasing. If so support a Canadian company (Norco) & buy the BLT lights | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim Reeve
a Cross-Country Rider
from Ottawa, ON
Date Reviewed: October 20, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
commute to work! | | Duration Product Used: |
more than 3 years | | Strengths: |
long lasting and very bright. I have used the dual light system for over 6 years, replacing several bulbs and fuses. Also, I have just replaced the battery. Excellent reliability and performance. The lighting pattern is very good, with no dark or hot spots. They keep working in heavy rain, cold and other severe weather conditions. | | Weaknesses: |
Since this is an older system, the fuse is not resettable. | | Similar Products Used: |
lower powered bar mounted lights. | | Bike Setup: |
attached to a Cannondale T-700 for commuting use | | Bottom Line: | highly recommended. dual lights allow use at slower and higher speeds. battery use gives over 2 hours. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave
a Weekend Warrior
from Linnard
Date Reviewed: October 12, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
After almost 3 years of on & off use they're still working great, even after not using them for nine months (make sure you recharge it occasionally). Bright enough to travel tracks in the pitch black at a safe & reasonable speed. Bright enough to get a bit more respect from other road users. Price is good and I like the way they don't clutter up my bar by hanging underneath. Takes about 10 seconds to remove lights and battery. | | Weaknesses: |
Had some problem with the lights not working properly on some thin Ti bars, seemed the tightening hex bolt was pushing onto the wires, so I taped up the spade connectors and thickened the bars with some old inner tube and no problems after that. | | Similar Products Used: |
None. | | Bike Setup: |
Clark Kent Ti mtb. | | Bottom Line: | I'd recommend these lights to anyone. Would definately buy them again. PS I've got the 10/15w Spectrum. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tony
a Cross-Country Rider
from Toronto Ontario
Date Reviewed: September 29, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
I have the BLT Fireball light set. I upgraded the bulb from the standard 10W to a 20W. The light works great, both on straight and curving single track . My vision allows me to ride flat out, (almost hit a skunk last night).
I usually ride 50 to 70 minutes at night and so far the light has remained consistently bright (no brown out).
The water bottle battery and its connectors work well, never had a failure. | | Weaknesses: |
Using the 20W light (which maybe a little over kill) and riding for approx. one hour, the recharge takes 8-9 hrs. | | Bike Setup: |
99' norco sasquash | | Bottom Line: | Great light, won't break the bank. I'm looking forward to racing with it! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Clive Roy
a Cross-Country Rider
from Toronto, Ontario
Date Reviewed: August 28, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
I recently upgraded to BLT's Spectrum dual-head lighting system. Priced at only $150 (Canadian) this affordable system is comparable to systems that cost 2-3 times as much. It was easy to install, is compact, has a quick-release mount and kicks out some major candle power. Peter Stacie-Smith (peterss@norco.com), BLT's rep, has also provided me with a superlative level of customer service by giving me advice regarding recharging the battery and answering several queries from me. By purchasing 2 handle bar mounts (part#30-0650) and a dbl power wire (part#30-9671), at a cost of less than $20 (Canadian) I'm able to easily mount/transfer this sytem to my 2nd bike. | | Weaknesses: |
Replacement bulbs are costly - but probably the same can said for other lighting similar lighting systems; | | Bottom Line: | Powerful, run times of 90-150 minutes (depending upon if one or both headlights are in use),affordable, compact, easy to install, quick-release mount, able to transfer to different bikes | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Clive
a Cross-Country Rider
from Toronto, ON
Date Reviewed: May 1, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
more than 3 years | | Strengths: |
After owning my BLT light system for over 7 years, I've finally had to replace the SLA (sealed lead acid) waterbottle style battery. This longevity and reliability is indicative of the quality of BLT's entire system. With respect to convenience, you can't beat the waterbottle style battery - particularly if you do night cycling several times a week.My dual-light BLT system is so bright, that my bicycle is often mistaken for a motorcycle as I'm cycling along roads and city streets. What more could you ask for. If you can't find BLT's web-page, do a search using their distributor's name - NORCO.
| | Weaknesses: |
SLA battery weights more than similar NiCd battery but SLA's do not exhibit the memory effect observed in NiCd's. | | Bottom Line: | BLT lights are dependable, easy to install, powerful, and a competitively priced (with respect to other 6-12 volt lighting systems). | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Aids
a Cross-Country Rider
from Vancoouver Island,British Columbia
Date Reviewed: April 4, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Lost of light. I use a 6 watt and 15 watt hndelbar light. The 6 watt is usually enough light except for the really technical stuff where th 15 is enough. | | Weaknesses: |
Hard to mount the water bottle style battery on some bikes (Trek VRX 300). I have also had problems with the fuses. | | Bottom Line: | Great lights for the value. Stand up great in all weather and the have more than enough power. I don't see why people would want more. I see guys with five lights on their bikes! Why don't you sketchers ride in the day if you need that much light! Lately I have had a lot of problems with the fuses burning out. I think it is the batteries fault. Before you buy them, make sure that your shop will take care of these problems should they occur. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Christian Lee
a weekend warrior
from Ontario
Date Reviewed: March 11, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
These lights are an excellent value. I bought my 1999 BLT Explorer for $130 (canadian) with the better LED charger, and I have ridden with them all throughout the winter. I find that the battery works great, and that I have had no problems with it. I mounted my lights upside-down so that they wouldn't get in the way of the cables. It looks great that way. I plan on getting another BLT Blitz to complement my Explorer. Another thing is that the 1999 lights are 3 times smaller and more compact than the older models. Get these lights! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nico
a weekend warrior
from Coquitlam,BC
Date Reviewed: March 8, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I think these lights are great! I have the Explorer under-bar system as well as a Blitz 15 watt helmet light. I could probably do with one or the other but together, they really kick butt! I really like the quick release mount for the Explorer. I can leave my mounts on the bike and just click in my lights when I'm ready to do it in the dark. The helmet light is also easy to mount and really lights it up. The lights have a good burn time and easy to use controls. And you get good bang for your buck as well. If you haven't explored the trails by night, then get a set of these lights and get out there. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shoky
a cross-country rider
from Vancouver
Date Reviewed: February 1, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I have been using BLT products for some 8 years now. Originally, I had the dual 'union' headlamp system - a bit of a dinasaur, but still functions well, using the same batteries I use on my 2nd generation BLT light system (big plastic lights).I love the bottle-type gel cell concept and the fact that BLTs systems cost half or less than NiteSun or others and yet do the job well enough. My old 6V Union lamps run for at least 8-10 hours on a single charge (in single mode - great for commuting, I rode a 20km one-way night commute for a month between charges)! I like that I can buy replacement RCA wires anywhere to fit my various bikes. Living in Canada, Norco (Who own BLT, I think) has made all the little replacement parts and upgrades available at most neighbourhood LBSs. Obviously BLTs are not the pinnacle of bike lights, but they are 'light' years beyond disposable battery lights.I have been so satisfied with my old BLTs that I just bought a Firefly 10W helmet lamp system for $100 Cdn to complement my BLT bar lights for negotiating the more technical trails here.For the $, these lights are great! If you need ultra high-performance, prepare to pay $300-$500 Cdn to get anything better. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Poplawski
a cross-country rider
from Victoria, BC Canada
Date Reviewed: January 27, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
This is my second review here...I've had better luck the last 2 years with my batteries, and BLT's lights are designed better now-much smaller and brighter. The cables have always been durable.I use an entry-level type system--I've always wanted to try BLT's higher-end products, but I've always felt I got a decent value for what I paid. BLT systems are very simple to use and are reliable. If you ride at night, you need to see/be seen and if you find BLTs at your favourite bike shop, buy them! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Derek Gale
a weekend warrior
from Victoria BC
Date Reviewed: January 26, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I just received this note from BLT in response to my earlier review of their Firefly light. It shows that BLT does care about their customers and that it sometimes makes sense to contact the manufacturer directly to give 'em a chance before slinging mud.Hi Derek,I just took a quick cruise through the MTBR site and clicked on BLT. Saw
a few great comments before hitting yours. As product manager for BLT
lights, I would like to comment back so at least you know what is going
on.First, you must have a first generation BLT Firefly. We found this
potential problem out after a first run of only 100 lights and promply
corrected it on all furthor production. In fact all the rest of last
year's Firefly and this year's Firefly and it's big brother the Blitz
all have the switch reversed to solve this simple but annoying problem.Furthor, when-ever there is a call on an old light, we promply offer to
get the light back and re-wire the whole thing for the consumer (at no
charge of course). We would have done this for you as we have for others
if you had called??? We have had lots of discussions about many issues
with Russ Hay bike shop, and made many improvements from the feedback we
get from them and other key dealers across the country, so I don't know
who is telling you we never hear or never do anything about it?In any event... to put your mind at ease, we have corrected the main
point you hate about your light, and my offer is still good to fix up
yours to get you to be a happy BLT customer once again. If I can help
you out, please feel free to E-mail me at peterss@norco.com or here at
home.Hope to help you out soon, Pete
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
islander
a cross-country rider
from Vancouver, BC
Date Reviewed: October 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought the BLT Spectrum 2 last fall and after 1 year's use I can say that's these lights offer good value and performance. The aluminum housing is durable and well-sealed. I crashed my bike into a puddle and completely submerged the lights and they still work great. They are small enough that they fit amongst the brake and gear cables easily.I like the idea of having the lights mounted below the bar because I find they don't get thrashed when I bail. The battery I use is a lead-acid (6V) which mounts in water bottle cage. Its a bit heavy but I found the Profile cages do a pretty good job of holding it. A lot of bikes slag these lights for their cable connectors but I think the RCA-type connections are a good idea because the cable aren't torn when they are pulled, instead the connector simply comes undone. The BNC - screw on connectors cannot come undone w/o twisting hence if you crash, its easier to damage the cable. Finally, the 10W and 15W design is nice because I can switch from 10W on the hills to 25W on the tricky descents hence extending the battery burn-time. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris G
a downhiller
from Vancouver, B.C.
Date Reviewed: October 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have used the BLT lights for about 6 rides. I have the 10 watt bar mount and 15 watt helmet mount. I have been very impressed with the brightness and overall quality. All of my rides have been in wet and muddy conditions on technical downhill trails and there dosn't seem to be any problems with sealing or shorting that some people here mention. The branch turning the light off problem has been fixed on the helmet light I have. Overall I would not hesitate to buy these lights again. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Derek Gale
a cross-country rider
from Victoria, BC
Date Reviewed: September 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Last fall I bought a BLT helmet light. Its my only light source for off-road night rides. Brightness is just fine for low speed technical riding. BUT, DON'T BUY ONE- the stupid design of the on-off switch is potentially life threatening!! The switch is mounted so that if a branch sweeps across your helmet it turns OFF! Very scary when your weaving through the trees in the pitch dark. Repeated calls to BLT from my dealer (Russ Hay's) got a consistent So What? response. If they cared about their customers, BLT would acknowledge their design error and offer to reverse the mounting of the switch so that it stays on. Based on this small but critical design fault and BLT's total lack of interest in customer service I have to give the lowest rating for what should be a great product. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Peter
a weekend warrior
from Vancouver, BC
Date Reviewed: July 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought a set of blt's explorer which includes dual setup - 6w/15w. Man! they are so bright! i paid only $125 canadian dollars for them. It was well worth it. Some other lights you can buy cost about what? $200-$250? I am serious, these harshly kick ass. During really dark trail riding, you only need the 6 watt light which lasts 3.1 hours, but if you go really fast in the trails (40km/h)? you might want to turn the 15 watt high beam on as well. I also really like the quick release on the lights, they are very simple to take off. The lights themselves are lightweight so they don't get misaligned when you do harsh front landings. However, i do not like the fact that they came with brackets to hold the wire that only fits bikes with thin tubing. But that's okay because you can wrap the power wire around your frame to secure it. Basically, BLT has done a excellent job on these lights. I go riding deep into the trails with my 5 buddies and we all have these lights. We light it up like it is daytime!
Anyway, congratulations BLT for making an affordable, durable, and easy to use light.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Teschke
a
from Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: April 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
These lights are the best. I used to not want to spend anything on a light and get those cheap ones. But then i saw these ones, they were on sale, so i picked them up. I was expecting just a bit of light. But they provided tons of light, they were sturdy to, no play in them. Easy to install.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Luc Belliveau
a cross-country rider
from New Brunswick,Can
Date Reviewed: March 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought my BLT's spectrum 2s last fall, because i couln't believe
the summer was over so soon and I wanted to keep riding but needed lights
to figure out we're I was going. I had seen these lights all summer at my
local BS but I taught they were only small little sissy lights. BOY was I surprised when the manager turned them on in my face, he then let me borrow them and promised me I wouild want a pair and he was right! I only went and tried two other pairs but they were BRUTAL! So I got these and I'm really happy I get about 1.5 hours out of them using them cautiously. Go Ahead get Some Today!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sven
a cross-country rider
from Toronto
Date Reviewed: March 3, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I ride at least once a week using a helmet mounted single bulb set-up. In comparison with other more expensive systems available the BLT compares very favourably, especially when cost is thrown into the equation (other riders have called my set-up a stadium light). Very durable, easy maintenance. I would strongly suggest for truly bonzai single-track-night riding that you have both a helmet mounted and a bar mounted light set for optimum vision. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Palethorpe
a cross-country rider
from St. Catharines, Ontario
Date Reviewed: February 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is not a review but a request for info. I have a set of BLT
Qb-3 lights but had my bike stolen with the brackets on. My bike
shop tells me brackets are not available alone. Could you please
email me and let me know where I may purchase brackets or could
I purchase some off you. Please reply by email. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ken
a cross-country rider
from Vancouver BC Canada
Date Reviewed: February 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought the spectrum 2s last year when they first came out. GREAT buy.
I paid 150 CAN for the 10/15 watt setup. The lights go UNDER the bars so they are safe in a crash. The lights use a sealed halogen bulb incased in machined anodized aluminum. I noticed a very slight amount of anodizing discoloration due to the heat produced but the aluminum casing dissipates the heat very quickly so no prob. It only gets very hot if you are at a stand still for a long time.
Over all very solid and great value. More info on these canbe found at the NORCO
site. WWW.NORCO.COM
I haved used these for a while now and I take good care of them. The bulbs are still in good conditon. Never a problem yet. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Oliver
a weekend warrior
from Antigua and Barbuda West Indies
Date Reviewed: January 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Lights work great, I've had them for eight years. someone pluged my charger into
a 220volt otlet and fried my battery. If someone knows how I can get in touch with
BLT via the internet, please e-mail me at, beachbums@candw.ag
I have the water bottle style battery incase there are different styles. Any help
would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks Oliver | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sacha
a cross-country rider
from Ottawa CANADA!!!
Date Reviewed: December 13, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought the BLT lights this summer. I needed them for a 24hr race at
Hardwood Hills !!!! YAHHHH!! Anyway on wide open trails they are good
enough, but when you start speeding in singletrack switcbacks...
Wooohhh Nelly!! Know what I mean! I must have crashed and gone strait
past some curves at least twice a lap! Buy these if you don't ride
at night often (my case) or only on wide or not so wide trails, but make
sure there are'nt too many sharp curves!! At speed you see about as far
as you can react if you understand what I am saying?!! Anyway I got em
for 110$ canadian 78$ U.S.? so they are a good deal!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brad Gardner
a cross-country rider
from Ont. Canada
Date Reviewed: November 24, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have just recently become a night rider. Have about 15hrs. in. I have
purchased BLTs and love them for my caliber of riding. I had the oppurtunity
to try different lights. I found BLTs to be easier all around. Thanks for the
great product. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Norbert Perk
a cross-country rider
from Germany
Date Reviewed: October 29, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Hallo,I cannot give you a review on BLT lights, because I'm still not using them.
I'm looking for 6 Volt halogen lighting with 10-30 watts. I have already
a 6 Volt 10 Ah Battery, so I only need bulb, reflector and something to fix it
on my bike.
On Euobike'97 trade fare in Friedrichshafen/Germany I found BLT lights. The German distributor is 'Zweirad Stötzle' in Leutkirch, my local dealer is tri-bike in Ravensburg.
At tri-bike I found only a complete BLT-Light-System including battery and charger. The selling price (330 DEM about 200 US$) is much too expensive, because I don't need a battery in a bottle and a charger.How can I buy only the BLT-lights without battery? How much would it cost?regards,
Norbert
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Vince Smith
a cross-country rider
from Lytham, UK
Date Reviewed: September 27, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had the BLT Spectrum 2 dual lightset for nearly a year now. I suppose I would say that the lights have not been extensively used as I only use them in the winter. I have found that the Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) battery is very good. It fits in a standard bottle and is easily recharged without the problems associated with NiCads. The charger even has a signal light which goes out when the charge is complete. The nice thing about SLA compared to NiCads is that they gradually go out rather than suddenly go from bright to very dim.The lights are nicely machined in alloy and the brackets are plastic and the lights just slip into the bracket. The lights have a simple rocker switch facing the rider and are easily switched on and off. They mount under the handlebar and I personaly would of preferred an over the bar fitting like the Vistalite 530s. I do recommend these lights, I have used them off road over a 2 hour period easily but I use the 25W second light sparingly. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lloyd
a cross-country rider
from Michigan
Date Reviewed: September 17, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I used these lights last night for the first time. I road for about half an hour and they were fine during that time. I was very pleased with the light and feel that for a $70 light it is not bad. I am using the style that is a single light and a 6watt bulb. I have not used other lights so I had no idea what to expect but, for the money I would get it.If you can afford 200+ dollars then look at another brand. Remeber that you get what you pay for. I paid $70 and I was not expecting $200 dollar performance. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lisa Mulzet
a cross-country rider
from Vancouver, B.C. Canada
Date Reviewed: May 19, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
These lights suck. I haven't had one good ride with them yet. They burn out within 10 minutes...no it's not the battery. Once I replace the circuit they are fine. The problem is the wiring comes apart and hits my frame causing the lights to short. On a rainy night ride in a 24 hour event, you do not want these babies on your bike. My $30.00 petzl head lamp was better. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Poplawski
a cross-country rider
from Victoria, BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: March 21, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have been using BLT systems for about 6 years and have generally been satisfied with them. They have been durable and sufficiently bright for the commuting cycling I do. My bike is my only transportation and using BLT I have confidence that I can be seen coming. The only disappointment I've had is that I haven't gotten the burn times advertised by BLT, even in temperatures around 5-10° C--they only burn about half as long as they should (at max brightness-they will burn longer but in a dimmer way). If you are in need of long burn times, such as in the bush, see if you can't try a demo of BLT or other brands to make sure you get what you want. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Poyser
a weekend warrior
from Vancouver, BC Canada
Date Reviewed: November 19, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Certainly better than a Cateye light and yes great that they're made in BC...
BUT - still too dim, not enough burn time on the battery and the RCA jacks tend to corrode a bit. Had problems in the cold with the battery and had probs with loose contacts. Good entry light and good value for the bucks but I graduated to a Moon Systems Dual Beam (12 Watt low & 20 Watt high) system.. $300 Can but man I can ride trails at night and in the rain! Good burn time too even though they use Ni-Cd. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nathan P. Neudorf
a cross-country rider
from B.C. , Canada
Date Reviewed: August 27, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Well I am happy to say that I can now see where I am going. These new
BLT Headlights rock and they even name there bulbs: retna ripper etc. I used
to have a cat eye light but that just did not cut it. As I now ride a lot at
night to work and such I decided to upgrade. BLT Headlights are made in Nel-
son B.C. , Canada. Let me tell you they are such a good deal, for the amount
of money you pay, you get a huge amount of light . I ride with a 6 watt wash
beam and a 10 watt narrow or pencil beam. The Headlights can be mounted in
two seperate ways one is a quick relese and the other is almost a quick rel-
ese as well, it just depends on how good you are with your tools. I ride a
combination of street and offroad and the mounting system can handle all the
bumps of either. These lights can be focused to your desire and they are
quite water proof, I have riden in driving rain and they were not effected
in the least. One more thing, I can see the cars and they can see me.
Hope this info. was helpfull to you all. BLT makes Grand lights. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nick
a cross-country rider
from Australia
Date Reviewed: June 14, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
These lights are soooo bright. They are easily as bright as a car light. Although because these lights are so powerfull they only run for a bit over an hour then they are FLAT. | | Overall Rating: |
| |
|
Photo Caption Contest
(sponsored by Maxxis)
|
Enter here
|
|
|
$
