The Nightsun Team Issue offers all the power
and reliability you've come to expect from Nightsun,
Proven over the past 10 years to be the most reliable
and popular on-road and off-road bike light
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from USA Date Reviewed: December 5, 2001
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Good light and burn time
Weaknesses:
Customer support is primarily designed to sell more product.
Bike Setup:
Ibis Bow Ti
Bottom Line:
I've used night-sun products for about 10 years but I will never buy another product from them again. To make a long story short - my battery charger went out and they refuse to sell me a new one!!!!!! The battery is almost new because when this happened before they talked me into buying a new battery with the charger. Said the old battery was the problem. Of course, with the new battery charger I got 3 more years out of the old battery. Now I have an almost brand new battery and no way to charge it. I'm going with Light & Motion and guess I will try to sell my night sun stuff (to someone with a charger!). Buyer beware!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Clifford Nilsen
a Cross Country Rider
from Auburn, Ca USA Date Reviewed: November 1, 2001
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$199.00
Purchased At:
California Bike and Snow
Strengths:
Nightsun Team Max, I have had the NightSun dual beam lights for at least 5 years. I am still on the same battery and the same bulbs. They give me triffic visibility at night. I have not have any trouble mounting them or marring the finish on my handle bars because I was smart enough to put electrical tape where band go.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
cateye's
Bottom Line:
The NightSun is a good product and if you lose any of the parts the company sends you them free of charge.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a
from Los Angeles CA USA Date Reviewed: August 30, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Montana de Oro St Park (CA) singletrack
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
(This review is for the Team Issue) The light is plenty bright on low beam, and super-bright when the high beam is used; easy to adjust the position once on the bike. NiCad battery gives a long run time compared to NiMH batteries that seem to be proliferating in other lighting systems - 3 to 4 hours depending on battery used.
Weaknesses:
It's a pain, compared to more modern designs, to mount the lights to the bike, and I'm always worried about maring' up the nice finish on my handlebars. Perhaps Nightsun has an easier method now (I've had these lights for a good half dozen years). I can live with it. NiCad batteries seem a bit pricey. NiCad battery is heavy compared to NiMH batteries.
Similar Products Used:
Niterider Digital Night Owl II, Headtrip II, Cateye halogen something or other...
Bike Setup:
Specialized 2001 Stumpjumer hardtail
Bottom Line:
This review is for the Team Issue lights, which use a NiCad battery designed to fit in a water bottle cage.
Wow - I'd forgotten these lights were rated, with the orginal 40w battery, for up to four hours on low beam, which looks to use a 10w bulb.
I've been happy with the lights. True, run time for the low watt light is now down to about 2 bright hours - the fact that I deep discharged the light a few times (why didn't I read those directions!) probably didn't help. Still, two hours for a six year old+ battery is just 25 minutes or so under under the run time of the Niterider Headtrip II I've used. And the Team Issue runs several minutes longer than a new Digital Night Owl with the light set at 15w.
The trade-off: the Nightsun NiCad battery is a lot heavier than the NiMH batteries that power the Niterider lights, but when they are new, you benefit from a lot more run time with the 'Cads.
So, if you like long run times and lots of light, and you don't mind the extra weight, these are fine lights, IF you can put up with the awkward system to attach them to your handlebars. Also, the super-bright setting of the high beam should only be used sparingly. Too bad you can choose to use one bulb or the other, but that's getting a bit picky.
Also, I know many other people have expressed more than a little annoyance with customer service - I've had no problems, with prompt answers to my e-mail and reasonably friendly phone support. In fact, I just purchased a new 30w battery and I hope to get close to three hours of ride time...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Reno
a Cross Country Rider
from somewhere in oregon Date Reviewed: July 22, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
eaby
Strengths:
realy bright durrable
Weaknesses:
battery
Bottom Line:
The XC is a very nice light.
I can make replacement nightsun batteries. They would cost about 80.00 bucks. They would be 4.5 AH nicad. Wich is more powerfull than nightsuns stock batteries. I can make them into a a pack that will fit in a water bottle cage. You would be able to charge the pack with your standard nightsun charger. However you would halft to attach your connetor form your dead water bottle battery. I'm thinking of putting them on ebay. I can also make 4 AH nimh batteries that fit in your pocket.
Anyone intresed?? Email me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Cross Country Rider
from Branford, CT, USA Date Reviewed: September 13, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Trumbull
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
North Haven Bike
Strengths:
Durable and reliable
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Nite Rider-Nice but the beam was too narrow.
Bike Setup:
Voodoo Bizango XT w/Judy XC
Bottom Line:
I would buy this light again. I bought this one in 1997 and haven't had any problems with it. Unfortunately, I did lose a few small parts recently, so I emailed the the guys at Night Sun and within an hour or two they got back to me to make sure that I got the parts I needed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John mcchesney
a Cross Country Rider
from Steilacoom, Wa, USA Date Reviewed: April 17, 2000
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
brightness, lack of "spottiness" in beam
Weaknesses:
lack of seperate adjustablity in location of hi/low (this may have been solved)
Similar Products Used:
Union something--now that was a piece if c---!
Bike Setup:
Kona Kiluha w/AMP fork
Bottom Line:
I used this light for 4+ years of commuting/fun night rides. I did have one experience with a premature bulb burnout, but the is easily overshadowed by the many times I drained the battery(I'm not the most maintainance-driven guy) and asked it to do its job. Many, many, crashes--the system took it like a champ. Anyone who wants a excellcent light set needs to look into Nightsun. I never had any problems with customer service, and would much rather talk to folks who know their equipment than a receptionist--even if they don't kiss my butt.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul
a Cross-Country Rider
from Plainfield, IL Date Reviewed: October 12, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Very bright on high
Weaknesses:
appearance
Similar Products Used:
vista light
Bottom Line:
I just bought the team max used & when I first got it I thought about selling it, because its rather large & heavy (the battery bottle is filled with wax?) Although not the prettiest or most sophisticated light on the market, this has got to be one of the brightest. on low the 10w bulb puts out about as much light as my vista light 12w & on high it will freeze a deer from 100 yards. It's the brightest I've seen (although I have'nt seen the cateye stadium or nightsun tri-beam & I hear they're VERY bright) I came across a shifty looking character on the trail tonight, I came around the corner & there he was just hanging out smoking. He startled me but, I blinded him. His hands went up to protect his eyes & I could hear him cursing as I rode away. The mount holds the light securely & in a good position on the bars so you'll have room for your computer, mine even has a fiber optic cable to light up the computer screen. It'd get 5 stars if it used the smaller type bulbs & if the battery didnt weigh so damn much. As it is I cant give it less than 4
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob Info
a Cross-Country Rider
from Downingtown, Pa Date Reviewed: August 20, 1999
Favorite Trail:
French Creek
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Bright, good light pattern
Weaknesses:
Not a spiffy as some other units. Mounting system is a bit of a hassle.
Similar Products Used:
Vistalight, Nightsun Team Issue.
Bottom Line:
A very good product. Although maybe not look as slick looking as a nightrider, it provides everything you need in a light, excellent light pattern, long burn time, and tremendous high-beam output. I haven't had any bad experiences with their customer service, I called up about a piece I had broke, and they sent me out a new one, and they were courteous with questions I had about an older Team XC I had bought used. While the mounting system is a bit inconvenient, it is simple and sturdy, and the light base extends in front of the handlebar, around all your cabbles, which works better than above or below the bar.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dave
a Cross-Country Rider
from missouri Date Reviewed: August 17, 1999
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
When it worked it was better than a flashlight.
Weaknesses:
*Staff at Night Sun *Not a well sealed system *Poor wiring *Cheap construction/materials *Mount system
Similar Products Used:
Nightrider-Own Cateye Stadium- Own
Bottom Line:
Like a lot of reviewers, I find it necessary to ride at night due to a busy schedule. I've owned and currently own several lighting systems. I purchased the Night Sun Max several years ago due to its high light output. After using it for an entire season, I finally made the decision to throw it out in the trash....it was finally at home. The lack of thought and the quality of the wiring is apparent to anyone examining it. I learned the valuable lesson not to make purchases without actually seeing the product in person. The bulb is protected behind a plastic lens which readily scratches with normal use, and allows the elements to easily penetrate the system. It is difficult and expensive to replace the bulbs, which often fail due to the excessive rattling that takes place inside this shop class quality housing. The handlebar mount is too silly to discuss. I purchased a nightrider system at the end of the season,and have been using it for three years without the need to replace even a single bulb. Much better construction. I also currently own a Cateye Stadium light which has massive power output, but has similar quality control and design issues as the Nightsun. The worst part of Night Sun is the people you are forced to deal with. Other reviewers have expressed how poorly they were treated by the owner of Nightsun and his staff. How true! They believe themselves to be exceptionally gifted. Any problems you experience with their product must be your fault. My brother who also purchased a light was instructed that a problem with the wiring must have been his fault because he changed the bulb himself. He's a design electrical engineer...don't think so. I could go on but you get the point. I really have good feelings about the Nightrider product and their support of cycling.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam Lowe
a Cross-Country Rider
from Scottsdale, AZ Date Reviewed: April 6, 1999
Duration Product Used:
more than 3 years
Strengths:
1. Reliablity and simplicity.2. Ni-Cad battery and charger system allow human error mistakes - like time I left it charging for two weeks!3. Bright as nuclear fireball.
Weaknesses:
1. Ugly, Ugly, Ugly!2. Mounting straps will break at some point.3. Connector is cheesy, but no problems yet.4. Too much high end power - can't use the high beam very long. Needs to be 10 / 15 / 20 maybe?5. Did I mention it was ugly?
Similar Products Used:
Only one I have tried. I am going to buy a NiteRider Head Trip. I think there products are more advanced with the nmh battery and digital control. Also seem to have the edge on customer service.
Bike Setup:
Used on MTB's and road bikes in all kinds of weather and conditions.
Bottom Line:
I have had the NiteSun Team for about 4 years. It has been very reliable and very bright when I needed it. I have used it a lot and it has held up well. However, from other reviews I am glad I have not needed NiteSun customer service (knock on wood).Favorite story - came in late from road ride in total darkness. A pickup truck started to turn left across in front of me. I flashed the high beam at him and he locked up the brakes. Feel the Power! I prefer to use it on the trails at night, but every bit of respect that you can get on the road is so sweet!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pat LaRoue
a Cross-Country Rider
from Richmond, CANADA Date Reviewed: April 4, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Chickamus Challenge
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Brightness that lights up the trail. Durability. Looks. Ease of installation.
Weaknesses:
Toggle power switch could use some type of quick release mechanism that would attach it to my handle bars without the use of zap straps or velcro.
Similar Products Used:
BLT's;
Bike Setup:
Rocky Mountain Blizzard limited edition; Rock Shok XC's
Bottom Line:
I am very happy with the purchase of my Nightsun XC's. Performance wise, for over two years, they have always done the job. Pure power, battery life and ease of installation. On the single track at night, the low beam does the a great job. Get into a tight spot, thumb switch to the high beam and bam... 45 watts of pure sun! Hey, the guys I ride with love the fact that I light-up the trail for them. In a recent mishap, I needed a replacement part. Contacted the Nightsun tech rep by e-mail on Saturday of the Easter long weekend. To my surprise, he got back to me within the hour letting me know that the part was on its way, free of charge. Once again I was reassured that I made the right call going with Nightsun. I'm the Director of Service & Support for a large personal computer manufacturer. And hey, I've delt with customer 'issues' before. Nightsun customer service did as much as possible to see that I was back out on trails asap. There's nothing more I could of asked for. That's why I went with the best!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew Were
a Cross-Country Rider
from Christchurch Date Reviewed: March 17, 1999
Duration Product Used:
more than 3 years
Bottom Line:
I've had my team issue for just on 4 years now and one of the mounting straps broke recently. I emails NightSun about purchasing a replacement. a prompt reply indicated that they would send me not one but 2 straps for no charge. Show me a cycle accessory company that will stand behind there product for that lenght of time. Most offroad products you'd be lucky with 6-12months warranty period. These lights are a rarity here in New Zealand but they work, and replacement parts are easily obtained via the internet. Incidentally in 4 years I've replaced each bulb once and my battery has just died -it got a lot of use! Thanks NightSun!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kevin peters
a cross-country rider
from pa Date Reviewed: February 21, 1999
Bottom Line:
I spent a long time looking at all the current light systems on the market (thanks to the internet). The jist of it all was the NightSun XC is the best bang for the buck when you consider the wattage, run time, and price. 10 Watts, 4 hours run time, for less than $200. It can't be beat. I read some crappy reviews on their customer service - and my experience has been just the opposite. I broke the plastic mount body, and they sent me another FREE within 5 days. I also sent several e-mails with technical questions, and each time it was answered the same day. Sundays included !!! The NightSun XC simply rules.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bart
a cross-country rider
from Dallas TX Date Reviewed: February 17, 1999
Bottom Line:
My Nightsun is about 2 years old, and I usually go for a night ride at least once a week. I have not had any problems with it. It is just the ticket for a night time party. Just stop for a minute, look up in the sky, and you can see a million stars. I can pick up my bike by the handlebars and point my light to the sky, and hit high beam, and signal to all the space aliens out there. I know they can see me!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
J. Wagner
a cross-country rider
from Date Reviewed: January 29, 1999
Bottom Line:
Four of us competed at the 24 hrs of Adrenalin last October. 3 of us had the Night Suns on had the Marwi lights and all of the Night Suns failed. After the second charge up, the rate that they charged decreased until they would not charge at all. I could understand an isolated incident, but all three. Not a very durable charging system! The Marwi system worked great. We have since replaced all the Night Sun systems with Niterider 12E systems. Do It! Niterider has great support and the durability and performance blows away the Night Sun.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Richard J. Wolf
a weekend warrior
from Eureka, CA Date Reviewed: January 6, 1999
Bottom Line:
My NightSun Team Issue battery started not being very bright this fall so I pulled out the paperwork from when I purchased it only to find that I bought it in early November 1988--giving me 10 years of service, so I can't complain at all. I e-mailed company about it and got prompt and very complete explanation of my problem (deep cycle discharge/recharge I thought was good;very technical and helpful. I need a new battery, but 10 years aint bad! Bright dependable light. My brake/derailleur cables cast reflection upward and some kind of shade over lights would be a help.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alan Sherrill
a weekend warrior
from Watsonville, CA Date Reviewed: December 28, 1998
Bottom Line:
I had the 7.5/20 system for 4 years, at first with bulb burn out problems. Yes, the contact guy at Nightsun was a pill. Bulb quality improved. System lasted four years, using it 5 times a week. Planned obsolesence, couldn't get old system battery so replaced with XC. I get some water intrusion into low beam so moved the lens retaining ring and it is okay. Light is fantastic. Low beam is sufficient for the road riding I do. Connecting wires to new bulb is like doing neurosurgery. That needs to be improved. Overall, system is great. Plenty bright. No charging problems. Nightsun even sent me a cool T-shirt for free when I wrote them saying what a great product it was. Pays to be positive.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
CHRIS
a downhiller
from LA, CA USA Date Reviewed: October 27, 1998
Bottom Line:
Between racing, working 50 + hours a week, and raising a family night time is the only time i get to train. There is a group of us that rides 2 times a week. We all have nightsun and have for 2 years. I can tell you we beat the shit out of these lights. We have hit trees, poles and rocks. The worst we have done is replace the bulbs, and mounting brackets. It provides the best amount of light for fast decents and technical singletrack. I use them because they work well. However, the customer service is the worst i have ever dealt with. The local bike shops won't even carry them anymore because it is so bad (REALY) AND IT SEEMS NIGHTSUN COULD CARE LESS. I deal with a lot of manufactuers becuase we break alot of stuff. I have never dealt with bigger idiots. you can't even walk in to buy part's, they don't take walk in's. the light works well, but the customer service is brutal. I have to believe if they got there shit together they could sell alot more lights.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Not an idiot
a cross-country rider
from God's Country, CO Date Reviewed: October 27, 1998
Bottom Line:
All the Nitesun reviews referring to Tobin George as a rude, arrogant loose cannon with no sense of customer service is absolutely correct. If you own a Nitesun and like it, I am glad for you, yea they do put out the light. But good freakin' luck if/when you ever have to contact the company for any reason. You will be cursed at, called an idiot, and ultimately hung up upon. For the money, you can't beat turboCat lights, the helmet lite with the narrow spot beam is only 6watt but way way bright and runs for 4-plus hours. It's gotten me home many times when my nitesun crapped out. And Tom at turbocat is the world's nicest guy. Nuff said.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe Coty
a weekend warrior
from Columbia,SC Date Reviewed: September 25, 1998
Bottom Line:
I've owned the team issue dual headlight model for nearly 7 years. At the time this purchase approached the value of my bike, but it quickly justified its price. It casts a motorcycle like beam that instills confidence to ride in either heavy traffic or back country. Most light systems I've tried like Cateye are proportionately more expensive as they only help to be seen but leave the cyclist squinting for potholes and other obstructions. Not so with the Night Sun. I can relax and enjoy the ride at normal speeds. It has never left me stranded as the run times are consistant. I wish I could say the same for my camcorder, laptop, and cell phone batteries. I rarely start my ride in the dark reserving the hour of high beam for coming home. On occasion when I get lost, switching to low beam promises twice the run time at higher lumens than other sytems on their high setting. Though I really like the luxury high beam affords. Few purchases have worked as dependably up to my expectations as the Night Sun. I reflect fondly on my savvy in selecting this light system.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob A
a cross-country rider
from Ca Date Reviewed: September 5, 1998
Bottom Line:
I got my Nightsun about 2 years ago. It has worked fantastic so far. I use them about once a week for most of the year, except when it's real sloppy out. I usually am out at night for 2 to 3 hours. The battery lasts the whole time, as long as I save hi beam just for the downhills. I don't know what kind of Nightsun somebody else has with glue&wax. Mine doesn't have either, but I didn't buy some old, used, recycled light as I guess he did. Of course I did pay more than $50, but the $200 I spent seems worth it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt Bell
a weekend warrior
from MA Date Reviewed: September 3, 1998
Bottom Line:
Thesets are GARBAGE. CRAPY wires that are glued to the back of the housings, TERRIBLE handlebar mounting. The water bottle battery uses WAX to fill the voids...can you say HEAVY. The only thing that SUCKS worse than these lights is the customer service. Lucky I bought these used for 50 bucks, they are hardly worth that.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Willy
a weekend warrior
from Scottsdale,Az Date Reviewed: August 12, 1998
Bottom Line:
I've had my Max model for over 3 years and it still works great.I have'nt had any problems and it's plenty bright enough for my riding.It does the job it's supposed to do.I would recommend Nightsuns for serious off road use.You could spend more money on other lights,but there is no need to.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Barry
a cross-country rider
from Va Date Reviewed: June 19, 1998
Bottom Line:
I purchased the team max direct from Night Sun in 1993 for something like $260.00. The first night I rode with it the 7.5 watt bulb burned out. Next day I called Night Sun to get a replacement and was told “FU_K YOU” and called an “idiot” by the owner, Tobin George. Then he hung up on me. The dumb ass didn’t figure out that I would protest the charge on my credit card and return the junk and be done with him and Night Sun. After ingesting his medication for the day he figured it out and called me back and proceeded to kiss my butt offering to remove the charge form my credit card, replace the burned out bulb, let me use the light for 6 months and if I was satisfied with it after 6 months he would charge it back to my credit card. I said yes.The light was bright but a piece of junk. The 35 watt hi was intermittent at best and the mounts broke in a month. After five months I sent the remains back to him with a note telling him I would be happy to try the same deal with another set. Even he wasn’t fool enough to do it again. There are too many good light sets available to have to deal with Night Sun and it insulting group of UN-support jerks.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SteveM
a cross-country rider
from NJ Date Reviewed: June 16, 1998
Bottom Line:
I have my lights a year. I love them. I have emailed Nightsun with questions and they always get right back to me with straight forward, helpful answers. I have not had any problems, and If I did, I would bring them to my LBS where I bought them and I am sure it would all be taken care of, hassle free. I would recommend them to anyone.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gary Dempster
a racer
from San Francisco, Ca 94114 Date Reviewed: May 5, 1998
Bottom Line:
I've had the Team Max system since 11/95. My battery is now dying fast, after 21/2 yrs, I am bummed about that. Also, I've snapped the connectors twice, and the old style connector between light and battery sucked too. the new one seems much better. The customer service for Nightsun is notoriously bad, I think the owner basically answers the phone himself, and he is an engineer type of guy. Helpful, but not really friendly, and don't dare ask for a warranty or any free stuff. Anyway, turnaround for repairs and new parts is great, and the actual light works fine. I haven't tried any others, so I can't compare, but the high beam works on any trail I've ever tried. I'm curious to try his new helmet light. Oh, one more thing...I switched to gripshift, and now have great difficulty fitting the light on my bars correctly. The nightrider is much more compact, if you have gripshift, I even spent $65 on a wider handlebar and its still a problem!! Now, I have to spend $150 on a new battery, or try a new system. Don't know which I'll do!!!! Overall, I'll give it 4 peppas, 5 for function, 3 for style, and 1 for cust. service!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tommy2Pants
a cross-country rider
from Pittsburgh Date Reviewed: April 20, 1998
Bottom Line:
Decent, but not great product. Owned Nightsun system since 1992. The commuter battery (3 hr rating) is lightweight, but can leave you in the dark on long rides and/or when you use the high beam. The premium battery, although heavier (still slightly lighter than the NiteRider battery), is the ticket for longer rides and high-beam use. My original low beam used a 7.5 bulb which provides long run times, but could be slighly brighter. Then I made a mistake and contacted NightSun people to ask them if I could use the 10 watt bulb from single unit in place of the 7.5 watt. I was greeted with rudeness, arrogance, and ignorance. Oh well - their bulb prices are out of line anyway. Summary: decent lightweight light system (some of it a little mickey mouse), m decent value (Team Max especially), with at least one jerk standing between you and good service if you need help. NOTE: The NiteRider system is definitely a better engineered system, but is slightly heavier, has a spot for low beam and a flood for high beam which I am not fond of.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Vest
a cross-country rider
from Charlotte, NC, USA Date Reviewed: February 6, 1998
Bottom Line:
I've had nothing but good luck with NightSun's lighting package... Everything fits nicely on the bike. the quick release mounting system is top-notch, and the low beam is quite adequate for the average ride. Anything over 15 mph will tempt you to crank up the high beam for a few minutes. Running both lights a few weeks ago, I managed about an hour and 10 minutes of run time in 40 degree wet weather. Last summer in Tsali, we ran the lights for about 3.6 hours in two nights without a recharge (of course this was low beam for the most part). I sometimes find myself wishing for individually adjustable hi and low beams so I could point 'em where I want 'em, but I've been really satisfied with my purchase. With my new VL 520 for my noggin (helmet), I expect to have a real bright time next time out. Just Ride It...
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Blair Pike
a cross-country rider
from La Canada, Ca. Date Reviewed: February 6, 1998
Bottom Line:
I've been riding with a NightSun lighting system on my bike since 1991. Its performance has been nothing short of spectacular. Only recently has the light begun to grow dim. Hell, car batteries don't last seven years! I'm actually looking forward to buying a new one from Night Sun the because of the great results. This product is a prime example of getting what you pay for. It may be a bit more expensive, but show me another system that lasts this long. To all you ham fisted monkeys out there who keep breaking the connectors, Be careful ! You paid good money to buy the best lighting system available, at least you could try to take care of it!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott Forward
a cross-country rider
from La Crescenta, Ca. Date Reviewed: February 5, 1998
Bottom Line:
I've been using Night Sun since it's conception, which I think was the inventor of decent night lights. I have nothing but positive experiences with how they work. The evolution of mounting options and light styles is what keeps me coming back to them, but the main reason is because they seem to work the best. Several buddies use the other brands and they always comment about how much brighter and more focused mine seem to be. I've needed no warranty, I'm not sure if that's because I'm more careful or if in fact the product is superior.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bart
a cross-country rider
from Fort Worth Date Reviewed: January 12, 1998
Bottom Line:
After riding with some old VistaLite 430s for four years I picked up a set of these. On my first ride a friend went out with me and used my old lights so I was able to compare. I was very careful during the ride so I could return these afterwards. With both beams on the two 10w bulb of the VistaLite made these look dull. For the extra $100 these were not worth it. The VistaLites do look goofy but at night who is looking at your lights. If you want to night ride but don't feel like dumping over $200 go with some cheap VistaLites. The Nightsuns were not adjustable and I found this to be a major setback. If style points were all that mattered go for the NightSuns.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff Felz
a cross-country rider
from Los Angeles Date Reviewed: December 30, 1997
Bottom Line:
Have had a NightSun Team edition for five years, and I use it for three hours, 20 miles, every Thursday Night. I have not had one problem on my climb and downhill singletrack, with falls, water and dirt. It is the best mountain bike product that I have ever owned.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Barshop
a cross-country rider
from Los Angeles Date Reviewed: December 28, 1997
Bottom Line:
I've been using the bike mount dual lights and the helmet single for over five years. They've worked great and I've only had to replace three bulbs total in this time (That averages 5 years per bulb). That's good since I give them alot of use. The batteries are still giving me full charge time, which is better than a friend who has Night-Riders for the same length of time, and had to replace a battery unit.Best thing about Night Suns over all other units is the way they project their light: bright and with no dark spots. Their illumination is simply alot better than all the other light systems I've seen other people use over the years.Finally, I don't know about other peoples experiences, but whenever I had to replace bulbs, the people from Night Sun got them out to me fast and with no hassle.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Gold
a weekend warrior
from Los Angeles , CA Date Reviewed: December 28, 1997
Bottom Line:
I have been using the Night Sun lighting system for more than 4 years. I have one for my handlebars and one for my head. Each week on Thursday I go riding for 3 hours on dirt. The lights work very well. The lights provide enough light to ride on all surfaces and under all conditions. In fact I rarely use the handlebar light because the head light (old model 2 lamps) provides enough light alone.I would and do recommend Night Sun Lights to everyyone with whom I ride.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kelly
a cross-country rider
from Gradena, CA Date Reviewed: December 17, 1997
Bottom Line:
I commute to work and use my lights everyday. I broke the mounting bracket when I transferred the lights to my other bike. It seems like the part was a little flimsy. What do you expect when you want the thing to be lightweight? I sent the broken part back expecting to get the run-around; instead, I received a replacement in two days. When I called the company I spoke with an employee that sounded more like an engineer than a customer service representative. He was all business and no nonsense. I appeciate him not wasting my time. Overall, I feel that they produce a top quality product and recommend it to anyone without reservation.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
nat
a downhiller
from Glendale, Ca Date Reviewed: December 15, 1997
Bottom Line:
My night sun had a connector problem. When I called there coustomer service number the guy asked me to send it to them. They fixed it in three days the light has worked perfectly ever since. I want to get a helmet light to go with it but i don't see it on this review. Has any one checked out the sun sport?
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason Pratt--Morton Machinery
a weekend warrior
from los angeles, california Date Reviewed: December 11, 1997
Bottom Line:
I very rarely have time to do alot of day riding so I mostly ride at night. I would be lost without my head lights!! This is a great product! It makes night riding safer as well as more fun. I currently own several of these units and I have not had any problems from them. They have proven very reliable. Hey, Im a fan!! I hope this product continues to stay on the market so us Night Warriors can continue to rage on! And if there is anyone out there who has any negitive thoughts about this product then your all probably sexually frustrated! Maby you need some light in your bedroom!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Rogo
a weekend warrior
from Los Angeles, California Date Reviewed: December 9, 1997
Bottom Line:
The Nightsuns have been terrific for me. We have a regular Thursday night ride, and have never had a problem. The run time is great, the bouncing never jogs the lightbulbs out, the strength of the beam is perfect for night riding, and most of all they're very light. I wouldn't ever consider anything else. The one time I used another set of lights, Night Riders, they blew out in the middle of the ride and I returned them to my local bike shop; Helen's in Westwood Village. Don't waste your money buying anything else, especially Night Riders.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a downhiller
from Lake Tahoe, NV Date Reviewed: December 8, 1997
Bottom Line:
I've been using the Nightsun Dual Beam Lights in Rain, Mud, and Snow for the past four years and have never had any problems with the lights. I have recommended them to my friends and now most of them are using the same light set from Nightsun. I've been riding for about seven years now and think that the Nightsun Lights are the best in the market.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Neal Segler
a weekend warrior
from Ridgecrest.CA Date Reviewed: December 8, 1997
Bottom Line:
I bought a Sunsport light from Nightsun about 5 months ago. I have been using it regularly to commute back and forth to work. I have found that is also very usefull for other than bicycle related chores. I have been perfectly satisfied with the product. It does everything as claimed by the manufacturer. As a side note, it seems to me that this site is a little biased toward those who advertise here.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Al Bane
a weekend warrior
from La Crescenta, Ca Date Reviewed: December 5, 1997
Bottom Line:
I have a Vista light mounted on my handle bars that just does not cut it for trail riding. I called Nightsun to check out the XC and was surprised that they suggested I keep my Vista light and add their SunSport helmet light. I got my Sunsport from Performance for $90. Nightsun claims it is 6 watts but it is very bright and really works well with my Vista. The mounting straps took some time to fit thru my helmet vents, but the mount is very secure and very lite. The battery is small and lite also. The light runs the 2.5 hours Nightsun claims and uses a Ni-Cad battery. Looks like a good deal for the money.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nuke
a racer
from Guam Date Reviewed: November 29, 1997
Bottom Line:
I have had my Night Sun for 7 years. I have leaved on the East, West Coast and now on Guam. I have bought all the upgrades for this light over the years and it has work good. The company does suck and to make money they should change their attitude and service procedures. On the connection issue, I sent my light to Nite Rider and they installed their connectors to my light, the switch and the charger for a decent price. Now I don't have the muddy night ride problems I had before with the crappy Night Sun connectors.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gearhead Gino
a racer
from Covina, CA Date Reviewed: November 25, 1997
Bottom Line:
It Seems that the people who give this product a bad rating all say the same thing. I've had this product for ever and I can't stand it... Hmmmmm. I can imagine the improvements have come a long way and a 5 year old light next to one of those other vendors lights (that only last a year until the mount breaks) probably isn't as bright. I use these lights and plan to use them until they are dinosaurs too. In fact, I'm glad to know that I will have them that long. I'm happy if I get a year out of a $400 pair of forks. But by then theese 45 watt dual beam 5hr NiCad leaders in any price range will be starting to pay there toll and other new lights will more advanced and brighter. But so will the new NightSun line as well, only cheaper.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a cross-country rider
from Hawaii Date Reviewed: November 13, 1997
Bottom Line:
I have been using the XC model for two weeks now. The 10w light seems weak against the street lights but when there are no street lights, the broad beam works great. When I hit the high light, seems like day time. The switch is small in size(looks like it came off a stereo) and sometimes hard to find. The battery contacts looks lame but are positive locking. So far, impressive performance for the price.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kyle
a
from Virginia Date Reviewed: October 20, 1997
Bottom Line:
I have been using the original team issue for 5 years (with a 10 watt low beam, rather than the standard 6)with mostly good results. I also own a Night Rider 15 watt beam. From a light qaulity standpoing, the Night Rider is pure white, brilliant. However Night Sun has two things that nobody else addresses as well. One, the low beam is a flood, which is proper, especially for mountain biking. Two, the run time on low is unmatched for the money. Night Rider would be well served to offer flood reflectors as an option.The mounting system of Night Sun is quite bad, and from the original Team Issue, the mounting holes are far too wide. Some rigging of a psuedo bracket allows them to work on real bikes, although for the price, a little logic would help.Nightsun has one hole, however. They do not make a single low beam light option. With the Nightrider on the helmet, all I ever use is the low beam. The high beam gets used when the low beam blows (once a year, with a too high priced bulb). A single lamp could solve their laborious mounting system with a simple clamp perhaps. The company is without doubt the worst I have ever encountered, and have numerous stories from others with even worse experiences. Please count yourself lucky if you don't need assistance.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aaron Sutton
a cross-country rider
from Santa Cruz, CA Date Reviewed: October 19, 1997
Bottom Line:
The company SUCKS! I tried to return a defective battery and they told me that that first- I damaged it, and second- If it was defective, they would charge me to test it! They don't respond to their e-amil, they just told me to call instead. What the heck is the purpose of e-mail then? The light is poor quality. It is straped to the handle bars with cheap tin or like material which breaks. The lamps work themselves loose from the frame and rattle. The lenses are cheap plastic, which melts.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Warren
a racer
from Sechelt.BC Date Reviewed: October 18, 1997
Bottom Line:
OK I get it. Nightsun sucks to deal with (Tobin and his lights), but that doesn't mean you can't do any about the lights. I bought the nightsun team max and had every thing go wrong with it. Bad connections, burnt out lights, and broken mounts etc. After exhausting my efforts at the nightsun brick wall tech support about light replacement, I decided that the hardware store would be a better source of support. I bought those cheap 50 watt halogen track lighting bulbs w/ reflectors ($2 / blub). Make sure that you buy the flood and the spot beam. As well, I bought the 10w, 20w, 35w replacement blubs and some JB Weld. I knocked out the 50 watt blub from the reflectors and sodered the old contacts onto the 10w blub and 35w blub. Cemented the new blub into the reflectors, and VOILA, way brighter lights. I have the 10w flood beam and a 35w spot beam. I get 2 hours of riding using mixed lighting, but most of the time I just use the 10w low. I've tryed the 20w flood low with the 20w spot high, but I had to carry a 3rd light because I would run out in 30 minutes (this setup was unreal while it lasted). So, out of the box, nightsun sucks. But, with a little hardware and sodering savvy, Nightsun's are fine.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wayne
a cross-country rider
from La Verne, CA Date Reviewed: September 5, 1997
Bottom Line:
I've had the Team Max for almost three years without a problem and I night ride almost every week. The low beam quality isn't as clear as my friends nite rider cyclops, but the high beam rules.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric Y
a cross-country rider
from La Habra Date Reviewed: September 4, 1997
Bottom Line:
This is the best off-road light you can get for the money!!! I paid $169 for my set at a Supergo sale. The 10 watt low beam light has a very broad light pattern so it doesn't even seem that powerful, but that should be the purpose of a handlebar mounted light system. For pinpoint accuracy, I use my NightSun XC as a broad beam (10 watt mode) for my handlebars and a 15 watt NiteRider Digital Pro 6 (very focused) on my helmet. The reason you need the focused light on your helmet is because it is easier to point out specific objects as you are riding with your head not your handlebars. You don't need all those bells and whistles on your handlebar mounted system!!! For this reason.... I give the NightSun XC a five star rating!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a racer
from Kilington, VT Date Reviewed: July 28, 1997
Bottom Line:
I have never had a problem with this light set and I think it is simply the best out there.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bryan
a racer
from Date Reviewed: July 25, 1997
Bottom Line:
I love my Team Max. Never had a problem. I night ride a lot and they've never winked out. They're also bright enough to make crickets stop chirping. I just don't like the switch.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a racer
from Seattle Date Reviewed: June 20, 1997
Bottom Line:
It always works and survives night rides in muddy Captital State forest and daily commuting in Seattle. Seeing how Seattle is so dry I have no idea if they survive adverse weather.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg Horwath
a cross-country rider
from Bethlehem, Pa Date Reviewed: April 8, 1997
Bottom Line:
I Recently purchased the new Night Sun XC. So far, it works great. The light has plenty of wattage for even the steepest descents and the battery keeps on going. My buddy and I both bought the XC at the same time, when we do a descent with both high beams, the trail looks like daytime. We even did a rocky descent with a third guy who had no light. I must admit the battery contacts are lame, and the switch is a bit small, but ok. So far so good
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Art LaValle
a cross-country rider
from Eastern , MA Date Reviewed: February 28, 1997
Bottom Line:
I have an early version of the dual beam nightsun handlebar mount setup and a later version of the helmet mount trailblazer. Pretty good light coverage especially the helmet mount. I have only one instance of a burned out bulb on the older dual beam setup .. I didn't like the replaement bulb price. With the helmet light, I find that if I don't forcefully snap the battery connector on the light starts winking while under way.On the one occasion I had to call Nightsun I got to talk to their resident unpleasant customer service rep .. more than likely also one of the principals of the company. If I were to make one suggestion as to how Nightsun could improve their prospects for surviving in this overcrowded bicycle light industry, it would be keep your engineers away from the phone and in the backroom working on improving product and hire a nice pleasant sweet young thing to answer the phone
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick
a racer
from PA Date Reviewed: December 20, 1996
Bottom Line:
I've had a Team Max for over a year now and love it !!! I use it at least once a week, sometimes two or three. It has not had an easy life (no road work for this light !!!). I still have the original bulbs and battery. I leave the battery plugged in when I'm not using it. This would kill a normal ni-cad, but this is what Night Sun reccomends. The unit is crash durable and very powerful. I still get well over 2.5 hours of riding with judicial use of the high beam on fast setions. I have run the battery very low one time to see how long I could run the high beam. (It was a little less than one hour). I am very satisfied with my Team Max. The company is not very easy to deal with, but my LBS takes care of me in that respect. The only problem I have is mounting the unit on multiple bikes as my computer and HR monitor handlebar mounts take up a lot of room in the cockpit. I suspect the metal mounting clips will eventually break from flexing due to mounting and dismounting stresses.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
cryoman
a cross-country rider
from Albuquerque, Pusan, Arlington, MA Date Reviewed: December 6, 1996
Bottom Line:
I've read all the crappy Nightsun reviews but mine has worked extremely well for over 5 years. Have had extraordinarily good luck with bulbs and have built my own easy snap-in/on mounting system using a large Fastex buckle (Note: credit for this fabulous idea goes to Sean at Albuquerque Cycle Center). Although they have always looked klugey and their mounting systems (all 3 that I have purchased) are 1st year engineering school rejects, Nightsun delivers the Watts on the trail when and where I need, it time after time. My buddy, Pete, says he didn't fully charge his Nightrider Classic last week as he went dead and I escorted him down the hill via NightSun - I think I simply had the more powerful, most reliable system. Regarding Nightsun's condescending attitude in customer support, it's a shame. I think they must be CalTech drop-outs or wannabees that never got through Manners 101. Remember, vote with your pocketbook.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Simon Elston
a downhiller
from Montana Date Reviewed: November 4, 1996
Bottom Line:
As a pro rider on the national and international race scene i have to train alot in the winter .I have used these lights for the past 2 years and have had nothing but great things to say about them especially now that the price has come down,strong lights ,strong battery great all round lighting system.I am not sponsored by this company and purchased these lights after much deliberation and testing the market place .Just go to a 24 hour race and see the lights they use .
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ken Welshons
a racer
from Baton Rouge, LA Date Reviewed: October 29, 1996
Bottom Line:
I purchased the Nightsun MAX about 6 months ago and have had zero problems. I really like the lights they hold up very well. In a 24-hour race at Smithville, TX they took a tree head on at about 20mph. The lights were about the only thing that still worked up front. I usually ride about 3 hours a week at night and have yet to have a bulb burn out or battery problems. In reading some of the other reviews people talked about connection problems. Well, I do know you should not leave the battery charging for longer than 20 hours max. A full charge is almost always reached in 10 hours. Over charging cuts battery life by the hour! And never leave the lights connected to the battery when not in use this promotes corrosion on both sets of contacts. Never disconnect any plug by pulling the wires, this leads to all kinds of trouble. Everybody was complaining about replacement bulbs. Well, GE track light bulbs are perfect replacements for the MAX lights (make sure you by 12volt ones not 120volt ones) I know because I have five different wattage GE bulbs that I uses and the best part you can buy them at WAL-MART!!! The GE track light lenses work fine also. I replaced a friends after he cracked one changing a bulb. About the only complaint is the both on hi setting, but it is pretty easy to rewire. I think if you shop around the Nightsun MAX is the best buy for the money. Also try ordering factory direct I did and paid half retail cost (get some friends to order with you. You cannot order just one set) Think about this: you paid for the lights try taking care of them.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Duval
a cross-country rider
from Venice Date Reviewed: October 26, 1996
Bottom Line:
The battery contacts are a joke. They were never ment to be be used in this manner. The lite winks all the time and the bulbs burn out every other week. At $13.50 a pop that is unacceptable. The helmet light has a strap that pops off all the time and overbalances your helmet. You can't see where you are going even when the thing works. The battery leads are too short and have no coil to them, so they are always getting snaged and restricting your head movement. The thing is ugly, ineficient, and not water resistant. I dumped this junk and bought NightRider helmet and bike lights. No more problems! Take a lesson, NightSun, and redesign from scratch. I guess the minimum is one star.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Gardner
a cross-country rider
from Atlanta, GA Date Reviewed: October 12, 1996
Bottom Line:
I've had the Nightsun dual-beam for 5+ years (whatever was top of the line in 1990 - Team Issue I think, 10 + 20 watts) and have had relatively little trouble with it. The connections aren't the greatest, so it loses contact at times (they apparently have changed them since then). Surprisingly, I'm still on my original bulbs! But I only only use maybe 15 or 20 times a year, all on the street. I rewired the switch for low or high only, as the low+high combo was really no brighter than the high only. I picked up their multi-LED tail- light and could not get it to work (I think it had been returned to the store and was already bad when I got it), so I called support. They were not help- ful and I came away feeling offended; can't remember exactly why. The battery and charger are shot now; they were more helpful on the phone this time, offering to test the stuff if I sent it in. BUT, based on 1) cost, 2) how little I really ride at night, 3) my eyesight is better is better than it used to be, and 4) these reviews, I'm going to go with someone else, probably NiteRider.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug
a cross-country rider
from So Cal Date Reviewed: October 10, 1996
Bottom Line:
My nightsun lights were fun at first, a great improvement over cheaper Cateye. But over time the contacts corroded, the swtich died (for a real thrill speed downhill and have your lights go out), the plastic scratched, and the bulb ceramics were actually pounded into dust. I could change the focus of the beam by pulling on the wires which were the only things holding the bulb in place. When the battery died for good I said that's all for nightsun.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Allen Sutton
a cross-country rider
from usa Date Reviewed: October 8, 1996
Bottom Line:
Six months ago I purchased the Team MAX system and have had nothig but trouble with it. The light output from this system is impressive however you can’t use the high beam from more than a few minutes or else the cheap plastic lens will melt. In fact Nightsun even says the Continuous use of high beam is not recommended. This really upsets me because they advertise 45 watt output which is totally useless unless you plan on using it in 30 second bursts. Run-time (battery life) is very optimistic in their literature. My experience using the low beam until a dull yellow glow yields only 3 hours of light. Using the high beam, even for short bursts, will bring the run-time down to about an hour.Weather resistance on the Nightsun is very poor. One night I got caught in light rain and water found it’s way in and contaminated the bulb contacts, reflectors and lenses. Upon disassembly, I discovered how cheaply made these lights are. The lamps are pressed in and held in place by the plastic lens. The bulb contacts are wire crimp. Poor choice was made in the lens material as it scratches to an opaque window in only a few weeks. It seems as if no consideration was taken as to the type of environment the product like this would be subjected to. Very poorly constructed considering I paid $250 for it.The attitude of this company is abysmal. Don’t waste you time calling them for replacement parts or technical support. This company assumes anyone who would purchase their product is a complete idiot. Even in their manual insults the user. The only thing the one page manual says is everything which voids the warranty.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matthew Bernick
a weekend warrior
from Northern New Jersey Date Reviewed: August 27, 1996
Bottom Line:
I've been riding with the Nightsun Team light for 4 years and the Trailblazer (helmet mount single light) for two years. Overall, I like the lights. NEVER burned out a bulb on the Team (I bought the system used too). Dropped the Trailblazer twice and had to replace the bulb. Shorted out the Team twice at 24 Hours of Canaan in very wet conditions. Otherwise the lights have been very reliable, very bright with very long run times. I have guided many Nightrider equipped friends home after their lights ran out 1-2 hours into the ride. I've also crashed hard with the lights many times and have only managed to scratch the housing on the Team and break the switch on the Trailblazer (bad biff). The new Team Max is an excellent value at only $200 US for 45 watts of blinding trail illumination. On a negative note my dealer, who is an absolute sweet- heart, has had such bad experiences with the Nightsun staff that he dropped their products.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dale J. Ekberg
a cross-country rider
from Albuquerque Date Reviewed: July 18, 1996
Bottom Line:
I have used a Nightsun for the past 3-1/2 years with no problems until I burned out my low beam. I looked locally for a bulb replacement and was told to order it from nightsun. I did this and was appalled to find out that it cost $20. I also asked about getting my battery checked locally, they insinuated that I was stupid and I couldn't possibly understand their techno speak about the battery. They refused to give me any specs on the bulbs or the battery. I took the system down to a local electronic supply store and found the same exact bulb for $5. I also found out that the batteries that cost $130 only have about $35 worth of materials in them and if you have a little electrical know how you could make a better one yourself, cheaper !! I've seen nightsuns after a good wreck and they are history. You can drive over a Nightrider with a truck and it still works fine. After my run in with the bad people at Nightsun I've purchased a Nightrider, even though my Nightsun is fine now.
Anyone wanna buy a Nightsun Cheap??
There should be a negative star rating for this one!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a cross-country rider
from Honolulu, Hawaii Date Reviewed: July 18, 1996
Bottom Line:
model: max
Aloha from the islands of Hawaii! Early this summer, I received my first ever night light for biking. Well, atleast anything that I would even consider actual LIGHT! The NightSun MAX is easy to mount and dismount and the handy, dandy waterbottle battery pack works for me, since I always carry my water via Camelbak. My experience of off-roading evreything from flawless single track to fast downhill fire roads to the ugly paved world called city, the Nightsun Max truly lights up the night. In fact, my friends have other brands, ie: CatEYE and there is no comparison. While they were cringing behind me with their meager beams, I let them catch up and just ride in my beam. In fact, they just turned theirs off and road 10 to 20 infront of me and I had plenty of light for others as well. No problems as of yet. After reading other reviews, I hope that Nightsun also reads these and does some serious marketing considerations. Afterall, we are the people, so make us happy. Oh by the wa! y, so far,....I am very happy. Light it up! Mahalo NightSun!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott (Treeboy) Schlachter
a cross-country rider
from Los Gatos, CA Date Reviewed: June 18, 1996
Bottom Line:
I had this light for about 3 years. In that time, I had to re-wire a new switch 3 times, but I got lucky and only burnt 1 bulb. When I first got it, I was very impressed with it. It opened up a whole new world (MTBing at night)! I loved it and considered it one of my best purchases. Now, after trying to talk to the guys at Night Sun a couple of times (once about replacing the switch, and once about finding info on how to test the battery), and after my recent purchase of a NightRider, I have a completely different oppinion. The light is good, but it doesn't even compare to the Nightrider Dual-Beam. Simply put, the Nightrider is built for MTBing, and the Night Sun is NOT. Combine that with the fact that NightRider actually encourages you to contact them with questions (in the owner's manual), while the Night Sun guys are actually universally known to be snobby buttheads...
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ken Fellows
a cross-country rider
from Herndon,VA Date Reviewed: June 14, 1996
Bottom Line:
I've been riding with the NightSun for two seasons now and I had no problems with them. I do a lot of night riding because I'm a working class stiff by day. I like the way the light system easily mounts onto the handle bars and the water bottle shape battery is really coooool. The high beam is bright and persice for technical riding, while the low beam covers a wider area with enough light to get you through the non-technical stuff. The last time my friend and I went night riding we both had to cross a small but deep river from which my bike and I were forced to take a bath. I was submerged under water not letting go of my YO Eddy bike which has a tendency to float away from being so light. When I emerged, I noticed that my bike was still underneath somewhere with its NightSun lights shining through the water. I rode the rest of the trail with my lights elumenating the way.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff Michel
a cross-country rider
from Oakland, Ca. Date Reviewed: June 10, 1996
Bottom Line:
I bought 2 of these lights and must say the beam is great. The durability and reliabilty, well, It Sucks! I've been out on a road ride and had Both connections come loose. After trying to deal with the company, I gave up! They came up with all sorts of lame stuff like road biking in harder on equipment and we never had that problem before. If you must have the Beam what I did was to solder the connections to the bulb and rewire the switch for high, low or off. Better than this would be a four way with the combo as well for over 40 miles per hr. on rutted single track (with boulders and large animals). Otherwise I would look to some other manufacturer for reliabilty and think about what it's like to be out in bum#$% with no headlight, not a pick up in site and it's getting cold.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Khanh Dinh
a cross-country rider
from San Jose, CA Date Reviewed: June 3, 1996
Bottom Line:
I just recently purchased a team max as my second light. My first light was a Gwiz Ultra Death Ray. This light is a fireroad light! This thing shines really far away. Luckily, I don't have any horror stories to tell about this light. I think this light is a true high performance light by definition of the term. It is light, effective, and fragile. It's only purpose is to provide light for a bicyclist. It has no other purpose. I've run into people who have had problems with the wiring and have found out that they do not unplug the system by the plug, but rather by the cord. Granted a Niterider can take this abuse with no problems, not so with nightsun. it was never meant to take that kind of abuse; this may most likely be from the fact that it does not come from a different background such as the niterider. the niterider is built to take abuse, after all, it was designed for search and rescue and scuba diving. As a handlebar light, i think this is a good light. I! don't think i would like nightsun's helmet light. I use a niterider cyclops for that. can you say laser beam?
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Leslie Stanley
a weekend warrior
from Palo Alto, CA. Date Reviewed: May 16, 1996
Bottom Line:
I was impressed with my Nightsun when I installed it, but became very disillioned after a short while. The first bulb burned out after two weeks of use. I thought this would be a warranty item, since I'd only had the system fwo weeks, and called the customer number. Not covered. Okay, I understand that. Bought a new bulb for, as I recall, about $16. (?) Assuming my original one had been faulty, I was shocked to find the replacement lasted only three weeks. At these prices, I couldn't afford to keep the system, even if I'd wanted to.
The real clincher came when I talked to the guys at Nightsun. They implied that I had installed the bulb incorrectly, or had damaged it through hard use on the bike. I assured them I had done neither of those things, and they implied that I ws lying. Wonderful! My commute is 20 minutes each way, only one way in the dark. No way the bulbs shouldn't last longer than they did. But to be accused of lying as well was a real insult.
I returned the system for a refund, and bought a Night Rider system for less money. Going into my third year of ownership now, with no burned out bulbs, and the customer service is wonderful. Go with Night Rider!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a cross-country rider
from Boston, Ma Date Reviewed: April 15, 1996
Bottom Line:
I've bought both the dual light version and the single light trail blazer. I've been through 6 bulbs on the trail blaizer in two seasons. The first one went in two weeks. I ride with a large group of people who do a lot night riding. The Night Sun system puts out better light than most but at the risk of loosing your light due to poor connections and sub standard bulbs. You don't want to have to depend on this system. The company also sucks to deal with when you have problems. I've recentlly sold my Night Suns and and bought Night riders.
Overall Rating:
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