The completely redesigned Cat Eye Stadium 3 with Metal Halide bulb technology gives you the equivalent of 80+ watts of halogen light. Now with a 12v Ni-Mh water bottle battery, a top tube mounting ballast, and a redesigned lamp body, the Stadium 3 is ready to turn night into day.
• 21 watt metal halide bulb
• 3hours run time
• 3hours quick charge
• 12volt Ni-MH battery with battery indicator
• 3,500 candlepower
Submitted by
Mountain bike fiend
a Cross Country Rider
from Eldorado CA USA Date Reviewed: October 23, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Eldorado National Forest
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
BRIGHT!! Super Tuff, super reliable
Weaknesses:
none, it's everything you could want in a light
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Fancy XC with blingy blings on it
Bottom Line:
I've been running this light for about 5 years now. It's been magnificent. Incredibly bright! I mean BRIGHT - like avert your eyes look into the sun bright. It's amazing how bright it is. Did I mention it was bright? ;-) When I turn it on when other riders are around with their lights, it's just NO contest. You can't even see their lights when the astrodome light comes on! And if you don't have it set right, on the road oncoming cars will high beam you! (easy to fix just angle it down and off to the right a bit). And it lasts a full 3 hours, the battery charge capacity is huge.
The unit itself is very heavily built. The light is mounted inside an armored aluminum shell that it brutish tough. I've gone down many times, sometimes very hard with this light on my bike. It always comes out fine, a few scratches and scuffs but it just keeps on rocking. All the hardware and wiring is top quality and heavy duty. It's designed to take a beating and keep on ticking. This thing is otherworldly in its quality, it's like it's from another time. It reminds me of the heavy duty quality of American consumer products manufactured in the 1950's. Really, this light is designed to be a day to day commuter light for the really hardcore "I ride 7500 miles a year" kinda rider. Get one if you can, the CatEye Stadium 3 is the Rolls Royce of ALL lighting systems.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonas Jarnestrom
a Racer
from Sweden Date Reviewed: September 8, 2007
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
Norwegian internet shop
Strengths:
Excellent brightness, very sturdy house, quick charge, aggressive on on-coming motorists.
Weaknesses:
Flickering and color changes, aggressive on on-coming non-motorists, Pretty lousy on-road performance due to very wide off-road oriented beam. Inadequate reflector size, depth and beam width disperse the light to where it's of no use. Unregulated DC-converter gives declining light during discharge cycle and is probably damaging to bulb at end of discharge. "Low-battery" indicator gives little clue on remaining battery duration, always on for old battery. Bulb-life specified in on/off-cycles means lamp not suited for frequent on/off's, i.e. many short rides. Unventilated house captures moisture that condensates on front lens. Reflector goes dull at "12 o'clock" position diminishing downward beam sector, quick fix is to turn reflector upside-down. According to a norwegian tester, lamp went out during down-hill when hi-intensity shaking. Allegedly hard to find replacement bulb.
Similar Products Used:
Cateye 5+20W halogen, Mila headlamp 10/30W + many others
Bike Setup:
Road racer, touring road bike
Bottom Line:
Advertized power output of 80W equivalent halogen power is ridiculous. My lamp was a little weaker than a 55W Golf low-beam. There is a "power-volume" in the converter that was quite conservatily set in my lamp, probably in order to meet advertised battery duration. Some kind of dimmer device is sorely missing. For on-road use a light profile of a car low-beam would be much preferrable. In order to see well at high speed you are forced to set the lamp in a blinding position. On unlit bicycle paths you can easily make an on-coming rider crasch due to blinding, so it's understandable that cateye discourages on-road use. All the cons considered it's still a wonderful lamp, worth every cent. Shame on Cateye for discontinuing it instead of refining it further. I think the technology is close to ideal for bicycle purpose.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tom hayden
a Weekend Warrior
from dekalb,il. 60115 Date Reviewed: May 31, 2007
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Locomotion Winter Park,Fl.
Strengths:
Brightest light in the bicycle universe.
Weaknesses:
Charge cycle. Do not let it go much more than three hours,or you can shorten life and run time of battery.
If they say they did'nt see you,they were'nt looking!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
oli watson
a Weekend Warrior
from derbyshire Date Reviewed: January 5, 2007
Favorite Trail:
drum hill
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
from a friend
Strengths:
very bright, easy to mount, adjust. very wide angle beam. fairly long burn time. comes in a sturdy box. very noticable on the road. good depth, robust bulb housing. charge time=burn time. only 1 cable comes to the bars making the cockpit clutter free.
Weaknesses:
bulky, no smart charger, no convineint switch on bars, bulb changes colour over bumps. limited or no spares available. big ballast unit,heavy, bulb colour has a purple tint.
this light is bloody bright! i have been flashed on the road, and get moaned at for riding behind other people because of the bright beam. it has an excelent spread of light, with no real concentrated beam area,it is a fantastic unit if a little bulky, but the lack of parts/bulbs could be a real problem in the future.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Christopher Goebel
a
from Tucson Date Reviewed: November 3, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Local Stuff
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
Rock solid light, excellent construction and bright as daylight.
Weaknesses:
It weighs a lot......it's heavy.....did I mention it weighs a lot?
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Stock TREK Fuel 90, Time ATAC pedals
Bottom Line:
This light rocks....if you can find it these days as its been discontinued for quite some time. I've had mine for 5 years now and it's still working like a champ. It's bright as day and tough as nails. I've dropped the head a few times and it's still going. Cateye customer service KICKS ASS!!!! Not sure what all the other people on here are talking about. I connected the battery and charger wrong and fried em both a while back. Called cateye and talked with Jeff in customer service. Said to send both back back in for free, yes I said FREE replacement. This light was out of warranty for at least 3 years....and both the battery and charger were replaced free of charge and returned to me in less than 3 days after arrival in Colorado. Simply put, this light rocks, and Cateye customer service kicks ass!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom Dibley
a Cross Country Rider
from Southampton, UK Date Reviewed: October 3, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Tunnel Trail, Santa Barbara
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
Hargroves Cycles Ltd
Strengths:
Incredibly bright, long run time, like riding with a range rover behind with it's Xenon lamps on.
Weaknesses:
Big battery, the discharger thing is in the way and the coiled cord is a little fidly.
Similar Products Used:
Various Cateye and vistalight, but this is the only serious off road light.
Bottom Line:
I bought this light when it was regarded as a "dream light" and was hideously expencive. It is still the brightest lamp i've seen and run time is an impressive 3 hours which I will stand by. When riding with my buddies, their 25 Watt lights are not viseable if my light is sharing the ground. It really does turn night into day and it gives you the confidence to ride just as fast as if the sun was out. Charge time is only 3 hours too, which is brilliant.
Nowadays, there are far more expencive lamps on the market which require a smaller battery for almost as much light and lasts for even longer. Compared to modern standards, the water bottle shaped battery is big and clumbsy, especially with it's piggy back difuser, but as big as it looks, it's really not very heavy.
It's never failed me and has held it's battery life after more than three years of ownership. I worry though as if the scary bright bulb blows, then i'm screwed as they are not supplied anymore. Other than that, this is a SUPER bright 84watt equivilent light that i've found very reliable and is like switching the sun on when you turn up at your night ride start point. On your own if it goes wrong though.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pete
a Cross Country Rider
from Kingston, UK Date Reviewed: November 29, 2005
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
In UK from distributors
Strengths:
Very bright and broad beam. 3 hr re-charge time.
Weaknesses:
Unreliable - I feel I need to carry back up light. No technical or spares support from Cat-eye. Re-charging process is fiddly. Battery discharges over time if not used.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Audax or ATB
Bottom Line:
Has failed only once. Got Ballast unit repaired by electronics specialist. Works fine after that.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Bennett
a Cross Country Rider
from Clitheroe Date Reviewed: September 8, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Merlin cycles
Strengths:
Good very bright light
Weaknesses:
My bulb went after 50 hrs riding and 12 months ownership. Cateye can't wont replace the bulb and i've been advised to bin it. Not good!
Bottom Line:
Good light but if it goes wrong your stuffed. Hoping Cateye will refund or replace with an equivalant
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JESUS PADILLA
a Cross Country Rider
from LEON GTO, MEXICO Date Reviewed: February 3, 2005
Favorite Trail:
comanja
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$425.00
Purchased At:
PERFORMANCE BIKE
Strengths:
EXCELLENT WIDE AND BRIGHT PATTERN, IT LASTS 3 HOURS AND CHARGES THE SAME TIME, VERY WELL MADE, THE BALLAST ATACHED TO THE BULB SEEMS HEAVY BUT IT IS NOT.
Weaknesses:
I DON'T LIKE THE COILED CORD IT IS TOO LONG,
Similar Products Used:
LUME LIGHTING STRADA HID. GOOD BUT NOT AS GOOD AS THE ALL MIGHTY CATEYE STADIUM 3
Bike Setup:
SWEET GIANT 2004 NRS 1 WITH XTR AND XT PARTS AND A FOX FLOAT RLC
Bottom Line:
THIS IS THE BEST PERIOD, IT LIGHTS THE TRAIL WITH A POWERFUL AND WIDE BEAM( its beam is wider and brighter than any hid on the market) WITH THIS LAMP YOU CAN GO AS FAST DOWNHILL AS YOU DO ON DAYLIGHT (i am using a lume strada hid on my helmet and both lamps give me an unreal and amazing light , with both lamps i got confidence to go really fast, the strada gives a lot of reach to see far corners and the cateye lights everything near 100meters so altough not necesary the strada it enhances the visibility a lot) DON'T BE AFRAID TO PAY ITS PRICE YOUR SECURITY COSTS A LOT MORE IN THE LAST NITE EPIC RIDE (HERE IN MEXICO A LOT OF RIDERS SPEND A LOT IN BIKE PARTS BUT NOT ON LIGHTS) THERE WAS A GUY WHO WAS USING A CHEAP 2.5 WATTS TOY LAMP TO ILLUMINATE THE TRAIL BUT HE WAS RIDING REAL FAST SUDENLY HE FELT BECAUSE HE COULD NOT SEE A HOLE ON THE TRAIL THE RESULT WAS BROKEN COLLAR BONE AND 3 RIBS, HE HAD A MAJOR SURGERY AND SPEND ALMOST $8,000 DOLLARS IN THE PROCESS SO THINK ABOUT IT, IF YOU LIKE TO RIDE AT NIGHT SAFELY INVEST IN A REAL LAMP AND THE CATEYE CERTAINLY IS THE BEST ONE
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rachel Sykes
a Weekend Warrior
from England Date Reviewed: December 26, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Watergrove, Rochdale
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
Mike Cookson Cycles
Strengths:
I have used this lighting system since 1996 and have been very pleased with the results, now after about 9 years my battery pack runs for just less than an hour. Not bad given that the set is very old, my sender unit seemed dodgy from the start though. On taking bit hits the light went off for a few seconds, dodgy went you are going full pelt down hill and it's pitch dark!!! I now want to relace the battery pack and the cheapest I have seen is £135.00. I have also tryed to see if the just the batteries can be replaced but it's hard to find a manufacturer that does D2 batteries.
Weaknesses:
Heavy and costly, very little product support from Cat eye.
Similar Products Used:
Vista light
Bike Setup:
Marin Mount Vision...love it.
Bottom Line:
Overall I have been very pleased with the performance of this product and after many years it still works!!! If your not very serious MTBER buy a cheaper set there's lots to choose from.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tony
a Cross Country Rider
from UK Date Reviewed: November 19, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$400.00
Strengths:
Looks quite good
Weaknesses:
Does not perform Does not charge Does not last (duration)
Similar Products Used:
Lunicycle & Specialized
Bike Setup:
Epic Marathon with upgrades to hope M4 & hubs
Bottom Line:
Worst piece of bike kit i ever bought.
Tech support from Cateye was insulting to the intelligence and completely unhelpful.
I wouldn't reccommend this product to anyone.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jason woodruff
a Cross Country Rider
from modesto CA USA Date Reviewed: October 22, 2004
Favorite Trail:
DRY CREEK modesto CA
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
world of wheels modesto CA
Strengths:
incredable light output .brigh'light,of the blue and white spectrum that covers all you need for singel track ,and safe road use if pointed down as to noght to blind car,s [ive had proplems with car,s locking braks thinking im an out of controle car or motercycle heading at them.
Weaknesses:
cost,waight,cost of repairs,time of return from cat eye service.
Similar Products Used:
nightrider dig, evalution.
Bike Setup:
TREK LIQUID 25 WITH LIQUID 20 REAR END . HAYES DISK . PHYSLO XC fork. fox floter talas shok, full bontrager.
Bottom Line:
If you have the money and the need for a powerfull light then I recomend this top end light. not for weekenders. BE ready to dish out big money for repairs. and long long turn around times from cat eye servics and repairs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
hanns re'
a Downhiller
from malibu, cali Date Reviewed: April 27, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Dark Hollow, BrianHead, UT
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
cambria
Strengths:
Amazing bright Power. This is the light to have if you are serious about your night riding. It's so bright I have to lead my fellow riders every time. I've compared it next to my xenon lights in my car, and the stadium 3 is just as bright. It's a fantastic light and it looks cool too.
Weaknesses:
the price, if your not serious. but you're going to end up following someone who has one if you don't have this one.
Similar Products Used:
nightrider & specialized fireballs (should be cld rabbitballs)
Bike Setup:
Every riders dream: Foes fxr w/Curnutt ti, Xmax disc tubeless, ALL XTR '04 drivetrain, Hope disc brakes, and Fox Talas RLC
Bottom Line:
You really get what you pay for. Let's face it, our sport is not cheap, but you get your money's worth on most components. Well, The Stadium 3 will not disappoint you. It's worth every penny.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick
a Cross Country Rider
from Portland, Maine, USA Date Reviewed: April 4, 2004
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
PerformanceBike.com
Strengths:
Extreme, extreme brightness. I got pulled over by a Biddeford Cop once and he asked me to re-aim the light because I was blinding drivers. That's a good sign! This light also provides a very clean, crisp "white-blue" light that makes the road just come alive in front of you at night. You can see all the cracks in the road and everything! The light is widely dispersed, so it covers a very wide path in front of you. Lastly, extreme durability!! I was side-swiped by a drunk pickup truck driver, on a summer evening in 2002. My light was on. I was doing 15mph and he was doing around 20mph. Combined impact of 35mph put me in the hospital and trashed my bike to bits. BUT, my light was STILL ON after the crash!! It survived the crash, and it proved to the arriving policeman that my light was on and the driver of the pickup was clearly at fault. I was amazed the light survived. I'm still using the same light I bought back in 2000- but I have since bought a new battery for it. Way to go Cateye!
Weaknesses:
As a manner of inconvenience only, the light does take 30 seconds or so to come "fully on", just like a "stadium" light at football fields. But a light this bright is well worth the wait. Also, the bracket that attaches it to your handlebars is designed for smaller frames. You may need a rubber homemade shim from a plumbing supply store to make up the difference. Also, the bottle battery combined with a separate ballast unit may be a bit hefty for some people's taste, but I don't mind. The brightness more than makes up for these minor inconveniences.
Similar Products Used:
NiteRider Headlights, and cheap "$20" lights from Wal-Mart.
Bike Setup:
2001 Raleigh c700 commuter bike (replacement bike after crash!), clipless pedals, Cateye Stadium 3 light, & NiteRider Tail Light.
Bottom Line:
Yes it is expensive. But it is well worth it! I have had numerous, numerous occasions where this light has saved my butt. Especially at those scary intersections where the car is at a stop sign, and may not see you after a quick glance to his left or right before entering your path! I even ride with this light on in the DAY time, and it draws attention, helping to keep me safe. At night, you WILL blind cars if you are not careful. Most cars look at me in complete bewilderment because they were expecting a motorcycle, and didn't think they would see a pedal bike!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
H
a Cross Country Rider
from Melbourne, Australia Date Reviewed: March 20, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Big Pats Creek Track
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$999.00
Purchased At:
Melbourne Bicycle Center
Strengths:
A brightness that will wake the dead, 3 hour run time, 3 hour charge time. When the Cateye manual recommends that you should not use the Stadium on public roads you know you're onto a winner.
I ride cross country and I commute to work. I have been cut off, side-swiped and had taken a trip in an ambulance because of enemy number 1: vehicles of the automobile variety. No longer. NOW there is respect. The Stadium is extremely bright by nature of it's piercing bluish-white light. This does not blend in with the traffic's yellow halogens, making you stick out. If you still feel the traffic does not care you exist, aim the light horizontally. I did this from day one. Even when the light is horizontal everything in front is lit so well that I even saw a beetle crawling on the path riding at 20km/h. Upon purchasing you will be convinced that it lights up almost everything in your path. However, if believe that you're not conspicuous enought stand and face the light from 30 metres. Or get someone to ride towards you with the light on and let the light do the convincing. Unless you're wearing a clown suit, no item on yourself or your bike will make people stare at you more than the Stadium. If the pedestrians weren't taking a second look at me they were shielding their eyes. In Aus if you're mad enough (at traffic) to purchase the Stadium buy from the Melbourne Bicycle Centre (www.bikes.com.au). They sell the light for $999 as opposed to all other stores that charge full retail at $1200 AUD. Still a lotta money though hence the 4 chilli rating. All the above, of course, has to be qualified because I have made a huge jump from the Smart light to the Stadium. I have not tried any other HID light. But Cateye has been in the HID business the longest(?) which allows for a refinement of their product. So when I narrowed it down to the (new) Nightpro Extreme and the Stadium, the Stadium won. I also read that the Stadium is brighter than the Nightpro anyway. In Aus I also buy on the basis that if every second bike shop stocks the brand, getting spare parts should be less of a problem. Unlike Cateye far fewer stores stock brands that have HID lights (e.g. Nightpro, Nightrider, Light and Motion). A big thanks to all the previous Stadium users who posted reviews on mtbr. I wouldn't have even considered the Stadium otherwise.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon Douglas
a Cross Country Rider
from Paisley Date Reviewed: November 27, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Depends
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$262.00
Purchased At:
Wheelcraft 01360 312 709
Strengths:
Incredibly bright and even more noticable because of the blue type light. Reasonably light weight.
Weaknesses:
Expensive. The prospect of eventually having to replace the bulb (expensive) or battery (expensive). The charge set-up is poor because you have to remove the battery cap leaving it hanging on two fragile looking cables (I have to charge the light each night).
Similar Products Used:
Cateye NC-250. Dead after 4 years of daily commuting. Not bad and one of the reasons I stuck with Cateye.
Bike Setup:
Work bike: Old OCLV Mtb frame with mudguards. Luxury bike: Trek Fuel 100 Fast Bike: Dooleys Road Bike
Bottom Line:
After suffering years of "I didn't see you" (you didn't look) from car drivers, I've now got some respect. It was nice to see the taxi driver (spit), parked on the wrong side of the road with his lights on, having to shield his eyes when I was cycling towards him!
I don't understand why the manual discourages you not to use these lights on public roads because they're too bright! That's the reason I bought them!! Apparently I'm also bad because I point them horizontally (directly into the drivers eyes) but as long as I'm seen, I don't care.
Anyway, part of my route home involves pitch black cycle paths and it feels like I'm in a car with full beam on. I'm also looking forward to a proper off-road ride with them. Most car headlights tend to look dull yellow in comparison to Stadiums.
As far as durability is concerned, I don't know. My Dad has used a set for 3 years now and recently managed to discharge the battery a bit too much to the point where he's negatively charged them. He soldered together some Ni-MH cells from a web site to make a new one - much cheaper than the Cateye original.
As far as performance is concerned, I can't rate them highly enough. The 3hr run time is longer than my old light in the 12W setting! Give me a few months and I can report back on the durability.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lee Wild
a Racer
from UK Date Reviewed: November 2, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
Portsmouth. Cycle world
Strengths:
Overall, very good lighting. A coiled wire connection from battery to ballast.
Weaknesses:
You use for 3 hours and charge for 3 hours. If you atre like me and make severall short rides you'll lose track of how long it has been used for. I was often worried if I would overcook the battery as there is no recharge indication. There s a light that comes on to say that it is getting low but I found this to be inacurate. Not a prob' if you get familiar with it.
Similar Products Used:
Cygolite (10w 5w). Light and motion, Arc.
Bike Setup:
Caad 2. Mavic hope hubs with Mavic open pro rims
Bottom Line:
Well, you know when you have something different. I reckon nearly everyone I passed took a second look. Maybe because of the color of the light but certainly the brightness. It has quite a strong hint of blue which is very different to any bike light I have seen,any light come to that. My neighbour across the road came rushing out of her house the first time she saw it coming through her window looking a bit panicky not knowing what it was. Aliens were mentioned. :-) These lights gave the natural surround a different color. Anything whitish glowed with a very light blue or purple. These lights can not be looked at, head on which explains the odd oncoming car flashing their lights at me. To me this was a good test. As mentioned in other peoples reports, cars did mistake me for a motorcycle. I only have the use of one hand and I was able to fix these lights on okay. It is a bit fidley. The battery is in the style of a bottle, which is connected to a ballast which weighs very little and is velcroed on very effectively onto the frame and from there a lead goes to the lamp which has a horizontal swivel. The ballast has the on/off switch. There is no comparison to any normal bulb set up equipment. I gave my Cygo lights away and never want to see them again. HID has got to be the way to go. My friend has a "Smart" set up and he was convinced his light was not working properly when he came out with me. The truth is my lights drowned his out. I sent my STADIUM's back after I had a problem with them igniting and waited for the next year and got some LIGHT AND MOTION,ARC (02 November 03). Obviously I can not give a 100% comparison report because I will be comparing my L & M with my memories of the STADIUM. The L & Ms have a whiter light. I really can't say which gives out the more light but the L & Ms is definatley whiter. If I remember rightly the STADIUM gave out a more even and maybe a little more "near" spread of light. I don't think they were as good as the L & Ms distance value, that may be because of the L & Ms whitness but the near spread of the STADIUM is very good. Unlike the STADIUM, the L & Ms throw out a narrow hotspot to the centre of it's beam. If the STADIUM is pointed down too much you get a a very close hotspot in general which is a bit much especially on light coloured roads and would put slight blotches in your sight. Blind the oncomers I say. I am not sure but I think the STADIUM was more dazzling to look at than the L & Ms which seem to have the same spectrum of light as most car headlights. The specrum of light on the STADIUM is different to anything on the road which makes me think is why it stands out so much. It is very different and noticable. I can not see that any other bulb can beat the HID systems. I was not upset with this light system apart from the recharging as mentioned above. When I had them I did not think I would ever buy another set. I got the L & Ms this time around because they were in stock and I got them a little cheaper. I have only used them once so far but then I have only had them for less than 24 hours. I reckon the Stadiums for off road and L & Ms for road. Either way I don't think you'll regret getting either. Any questions to datmin01@hotmail.com
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Istvan Fekete
a Cross Country Rider
from New Westminster, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: August 17, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Bottom Line:
This isn't really a review, I just wanted to let people know that according to Cateye (I e-mailed them a few days ago) the Stadium 3 is still carried and supported by them. They gave me no reason for it being missing from their website though.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul Krombholz
a Weekend Warrior
from Jackson, MS, USA Date Reviewed: August 11, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
Bike Rack
Strengths:
This is a follow-up to my previous review. CatEye replaced my lamp for free. The new lamp appears to be brighter and hotter than the old one ever was. In addition, the light appears to be focussed on a somewhat smaller area. Now, All I need to do is get a new bottle battery.
Weaknesses:
I can no longer find the Stadium 3 on the manufacturer's web site. It apparently has been discontinued. I hope that development of this type of light has not been abandoned and that there is a Stadium 4 in the works. Perhaps the Stadium 3 light is brighter than it needs to be for commuting, but the promise of this type of light is that you get more light per watt-hour of battery capacity. If at all possible, I would like to see a 10 watt bulb instead of the present 21 watt bulb. Needed improvements in battery technology would obviously be the extension of battery life by increasing the number of recharges the battery can take.
Bottom Line:
The Stadium 3's technology provides much more light per watt-hour of battery capacity. CatEye should continue to develop this promising technology.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Demolition H.O.M
a Racer
from Huddersfield, UK Date Reviewed: June 25, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Penines
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
Wiggle.co.uk
Strengths:
Very Bright and useful beam pattern, perfect for x-Country riding . Used it at 2003 Saab Mountain Mayhem race.. it worked well, lasted 3hrs and 10 minutes burn. Easy to fix on and take off. No other light system comes close to this beauty!
Weaknesses:
Can't see the red warning lighgt when riding- Something to fix on the Stadium 4?. Hard to get hold of extra battery pack.
Similar Products Used:
Homemade system, Smart light, Sigma light
Bike Setup:
GT Zaskar + Pace rc36 + Hope C2
Bottom Line:
Only worth spending on if you are going to use it more than once off-road. Excessively priced for commuting purposes unless you want to get revenge on inconsiderate motorists.
( Please don't do this!- "Ride on pavement on wrong side of road, on a country lane, with no street lamping- Adjust the light unit to point slightly up, and watch the traffic scream to a halt as the driver thinks there is a drunk heading towards them!")
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul Krombholz
a
from Jackson, MS, U.S.A. Date Reviewed: April 26, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
Bike Rack
Strengths:
Powerful light with good coverage. Cars give me more respect than they did when I had a weaker light. The three hour charge time and light weight of the AC adaptor is also nice.
Weaknesses:
The light often changed color when I hit a bump. It burned out after an estimated 100 to 150 hours of use during the 13 months I have had it. I now have to send it back along with the attached ballast. Thus, I lose the unit for a month or so. They should design a unit with replacible bulbs unless the ballast often needs replacing, too, and I see no reason why it should. The manual warns against touching the lamp. Actually it never gets hot, only warm. The manual says the light will go out 10 minutes after the red power indicator light goes on. this may be true when the battery is new, but, after 10 months of use, the red light comes on after about an hour of use, but the lamp stays on for at least another hour, although it declines to about half the original intensity. I can't see the power indicator light directly. I have to put the palm of my hand near it and look at the reflection off my palm. Also, Cat Eye should design a bottle battery where you can replace just the batteries in the bottle without having to buy a whole new bottle unit. I was unable to find the cost of a new lamp on the Cateye web site. Since my battery has lost about half its original capacity, I am looking probably at close to 200 dollars to replace the lamp and the battery. Ouch! It would also be nice if they could make the lamp more easily moveable so thay I can aim it lower when I am on the street and higher when I am on the trail without getting off the bike to loosen the bracket bolt.
Similar Products Used:
NightSun dual beam (10W + 21W)
Bike Setup:
Specialized Allez (until the frame broke last month) Now a Trek 520 touring bike.
Bottom Line:
It is by far, the brightest light available commercially, except possibly some of the two-headlight halogen bulb units that will drain your battery in a half hour or so if you use both beams. It is expensive, and so is replacing the lamp and the battery. You should have a backup unit you can use when the metal halide lamp quits.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Thomas
a Cross Country Rider
from Ithaca Date Reviewed: April 18, 2003
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
I Love Jesus Bikes
Strengths:
Unbelievable brightness - awesome! Recharges fast. Time taken to recharge the batteries equals its thoroughput, practically. Awesome! very nice!
Weaknesses:
The stupid band only comes in a dorky purple
Similar Products Used:
flashlight
Bike Setup:
the best
Bottom Line:
If you want the best light out there and you have the clams to shell out, then this is the one for you. The battery is a little heavy - but it has to be, really. My battery went dead for some reason - i think i had water damage to it - but eventually it short-circuited. I sent it to cateye and they sent me a brand new battery!!! they didn't even make me pay for shipping. Unbelievable product, and unbelievable company. all the other lights are flashlights. This has gas inside
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gregg Smith
a Weekend Warrior
from Portsmouth, NH USA Date Reviewed: March 7, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Mt. A
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$380.00
Purchased At:
Webmountainbike
Strengths:
This is an update to my previous post. Great light, it has opened up the night for trail riding.
Weaknesses:
I've had to make a hood for it when riding on the street. I keep getting high beams flashed at me because it is blinding to oncomming cars. **Poor, poor support from Cateye**
Bike Setup:
Specialized Enduro S-Works, XTR (frame upgrade when a weld split on Comp frame. Thank you Specialized and LBS!)
Bottom Line:
Love the light. Excellent for off road use. After *many* hours of use the bulb reached the end of its life. Maybe a bit prematurely, but lasted through lots of rough technical trail riding. When I contacted Cateye to get a replacent bulb (the ballast and bulb are attached and must go back to Cateye for replacement) I was told that it will be *at least* a month before they have any stock. I ride 5 days a week and in the winter its all in the dark. I find a month+ for bulb replacement to be unacceptable. I now have to buy another light so I can continue riding- it won't be a Cateye! My revised ratings:
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Duane Marsh
a Weekend Warrior
from Auckland, New Zealand Date Reviewed: March 6, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Branford Bikes, Branford CT
Strengths:
Very compact package. The Ballast fits into my frame very conveniently. The battery being the shape of a water bottle makes for easy storage on bike. The wide white beam the lamp puts out shows up everything very clearly so I am able to cycle as fast whether it is day or night. The 3 hour charge time is a bonus.
Similar Products Used:
Cateye Daylites II/Twin HL-RC230
Bike Setup:
Wheeler road frame; Ultegra; Mavic Ksyrium wheels
Bottom Line:
Powerful, wide, white light which is very reassuring to be behind. Quite expensive but if you want a light that gives you confidence while riding at night this one would be hard to beat.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gregg
a Weekend Warrior
from Portsmouth, NH Date Reviewed: December 27, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Mt. A in Southern ME
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$380.00
Purchased At:
Internet
Strengths:
Bright light, excellent pattern, long battery life. First time I tired it around the neighborhood I got a "Look there goes an alien!" Can do technical trails at night with no problem.
Weaknesses:
Fussy to transfer between bikes. HEAVY. Have to tape a hood around the top when street riding or will blind oncoming traffic.
Similar Products Used:
Various halogen lights, all had very bright but pencil shaped beams
Bike Setup:
Specialized FSR Comp XTR,discs
Bottom Line:
Very expensive, but has opened up the night for riding off road. After a major impact into the ground the lamp went out leaving me in pitch black. Restarted lamp and found no damage except for my halogen back-up lamp that sheared off at the mount. Will blind anyone that is oncoming, almost too bright for road use without a hood. Only need one light for safe riding at close to daylight speeds. If you street ride only this isn't your best choice (you can get by with something much cheaper), but for trail riding metal halide is the way to go if you can pony up the $$$.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Carl Monaghan
a Weekend Warrior
from Antrim, N Ireland Date Reviewed: December 9, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Tardree forest, near Antrim
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$460.00
Purchased At:
Armstrong Bike Dock, Belfast
Strengths:
an awesomely bright light with long run time
Weaknesses:
delicate and v. expensive mine broke after only 4 weeks and it cannot be fixed AAAAAAAArgh!!!! I was so impressed with the brightness however that i bought another one.
Similar Products Used:
caTeye ABS
Bike Setup:
2002 kONA bEAR dEE lux
Bottom Line:
AAAAAAAAArgh!!!!
Do not buy this unless you have enough of a sense of humour to laugh it off if it breaks.
It is essential if you live in the countryside however.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
martin kells
a Cross Country Rider
from Penkridge, Staffs Date Reviewed: November 12, 2002
Favorite Trail:
anywhere
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$375.00
Purchased At:
two wheels
Strengths:
very bright,well manufactured and so far robust . Burn time of the battery 2.5 hours ish.
Weaknesses:
cost and its only one light as them thar trails are mighty dark if your one light goes out!! Its quite heavy compared to other systems i looked at but these are all small points, far out weighed by the strengths.
Similar Products Used:
none,
Bike Setup:
kona nu nu, yep the lights nearly cost as much as the bike, the bike being 2nd hand
Bottom Line:
I'd buy them again, yes its a lot of cash for a light but its a lot of light, compared to dual light systems it compares well especially if you want a helmet and bar mounted light as you will need an extra battery, get a discount (£50 for me)from the shop and it does nt seem so bad.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
TD
a Weekend Warrior
from Gainesville, Florida, USA Date Reviewed: November 5, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Breckenridge-Vail, CO
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$390.00
Purchased At:
webmountainbike.com
Strengths:
Seems to be even slightly brighter than 2 PIAA 002X Xtreme white auxiliary lights (35 watts/each). The white light makes reflective surfaces much brighter. It would be nice to have a road version with narrower longer beam. By keeping the light pointing down low enough so drivers don't flash their high beam back, there is enough light ahead to see what's on the road at around 18-20 mph. Other strength: long run time per charge.
Weaknesses:
Separate ballast unit. It's not too heavy but there isn't any good place on the bike to mount it. I mount it on top of the top tube and all the way to the head tube of my road bike and still bump my knees on it a few times when standing off the saddle.
Similar Products Used:
HID lights on my car.
Bike Setup:
Trek OCLV 5200 road bike with 4 LED flashing units in the back.
Bottom Line:
LOVE IT! cars don't cut in front of me like they used to when I had a 10 watt halogen light.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul Newman
a Cross Country Rider
from Aylesbury, England Date Reviewed: October 9, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Any trail that doesn't kill me !
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$270.00
Purchased At:
Phil Corley Cycles
Strengths:
BRIGHT ! But's that's only half the story, sure this IS as bright as car lights but it's the beam pattern that puts the light where you need it. If this lamp was tightly focussed you could probably light up the new moon but that's not much use if you can't see what your about to wipe out on. The light is distributed so that you can see off to the sides and obstacles at head height.
3 hour recharge.
Seems well built, time will tell though.
Gauranteed to upset your mates with their halogen outfits !
Weaknesses:
Ballast mounting is a bit dodgy, it's heavy but anything that runs this amount of light for 3 hours would be. The indicator light that's meant to show 10 minutes left comes on with about an hour left on mine - not a major problem as you can't see it when riding anyway !
Gauranteed to upset your mates with their halogen outfits !
Similar Products Used:
Varous CatEye halogen set ups.
Bike Setup:
2002 Specialized Stumpjumper Pro - totally standard at present
Bottom Line:
It would be easy to say that you should only buy this light if you do loads of miles at night but that's not the point. The point is that you should buy this light because it's the only light that truly lets you see where you're going in the dark. You will enjoy riding at night, you will crave the night, you will become a creature of the night ! Metal Halide rules, if you can afford one buy one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Colin
a Weekend Warrior
from Scotland, UK Date Reviewed: September 29, 2002
Favorite Trail:
very many!
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$370.00
Purchased At:
wiggle.co.uk
Strengths:
Very bright, excellent life (mine seems to go for over 3 hours, maybe coz it's so cold up here!!) Also, for what it is, not that heavy IMHO!
Weaknesses:
It isn't daylight.... not as bright as some people on here seem to reckon. Anyone got two?? ;)
Similar Products Used:
Cateye 230
Bike Setup:
Orange Sub 5 2002
Bottom Line:
All in all, a great package. If you want to ride in the dark for over two and a half hours, I take my hat off to you.
Not astoundingly bright (unless there's something wrong with mine!), but easily the best one-solution system.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Victor Tan
a Racer
from NY Date Reviewed: September 28, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$360.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Bright light, bluish hue, wide beam, looks beautiful on bike. Coverage is almost 180 degrees, cars will see you and you'll get respect from them. The distance is very far. You get attention from other people, most people like it.
Weaknesses:
heavy, ballast taking up space, on/off switch not on light but on ballast. Cars will sometimes high beam you if you point it in the wrong way. Bulb can be costly to replace
Bike Setup:
Mongoose G2 2001
Bottom Line:
This light is worth every penny, you pay more for the best. Definitely worth it for the brightest bike light available. Often, many cars stop or slow down because they aren't sure what it is. You won't be disappointed with this light. Hope cateye releases a dual beam stadium.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kip
a Cross Country Rider
from Bristol, UK Date Reviewed: August 28, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
I paid 300 uk £'s not dollars for this lightset and to be honest, the best thing about it for me is also the most disappointing. It's just so simple! (I'm a gadget freak) It works. Light is brilliant, nothing beats it, although I don't think that it's quite as bright as some people have hyped it up to below. It's also lighter than my old vistalite nightstick nimh system (twin lights/twin batteries)
Weaknesses:
could do with a smart charger to make it perfect.
Similar Products Used:
Vistalite nightstick (two different sets) Carrots
Bike Setup:
Trek 9.8 Elite Carbon
Bottom Line:
Unbeatable - expensive, but the best always is.
(I got chased by the local police helicopter on my first ride out - they thought i was a motorcyclist escaping across country and had spotted me from 2-3 miles away.)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin Williams
a Racer
from Chicago, Illinois USA Date Reviewed: March 13, 2002
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Upgrade program from Cateye
Strengths:
Long, wide, exceedingly bright beam that lights up EVERYTHING. Cars stop and let me past because they aren't sure what in the heck is going on, or what's coming. Unlike the first generation Stadium Light which had a narrow, shortish beam, the redesigned lamp housing throws more light. You might look at the Stadium 3 compared to the original Stadium and think that there isn't as much light, but when you put them on the bike, stand back, baby!
Weaknesses:
Weight. This this is HEAVY. I always forget, until I take it off the bike. But it's not rotating weight, so who cares? No similar helmet-mount product to light up the night as nicely.
Similar Products Used:
First-gen Cateye Stadium light, tried a NiteRider Storm, and basic NiteRider.
Bike Setup:
Depends. I swap it on and off of all my bikes.
Bottom Line:
It's expensive, but the best costs more. Put it like this...much of the job of a light is to illuminate. But when you're riding home after that ride, the job of a light becomes to allow cars to see you. I have never, ever had any problems beign seen with the Stadium 3. This is a definite bonus is city settings, when lesser lights can blend into the background.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
johnson
a Downhiller
from san francisco Date Reviewed: January 20, 2002
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
mailorder
Strengths:
the intensity is amazing. love this light.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
niterider hid
Bike Setup:
fully suspended gary fisher
Bottom Line:
if you have the $$$$ definitely get this light. highly recommended!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Spaz noyou
a Cross Country Rider
from oregon USA baby!!!!! Date Reviewed: January 7, 2002
Favorite Trail:
all of them
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
bike world
Strengths:
Just had to avrage out the last review. Stupid jerk form the land of stupid jerks. You should be gratefull we saved your butts in WW1 and WW2!
Weaknesses:
I need some info
Bottom Line:
I'm serously concidering buying thsis light. Has anyone had problems with the ballest on this light? I know Nightriders HID lights have had problems. If you would email mme I would apreshate it. Thanks.
R
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
antony aiken
a Downhiller
from grimsby england Date Reviewed: November 12, 2001
Favorite Trail:
?
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$12.00
Purchased At:
made myself!! ha suckers!!
Strengths:
very bright and i can get a smaller lighter 12v battery!
Weaknesses:
very heavy even with the light battery
Similar Products Used:
my own. and the origional
Bike Setup:
front susspension down hill and trails bike
Bottom Line:
too damned expensive so i made one and it IS!!! exactly the same brightness but it lasts longer and looks better!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ed Deppe
a Weekend Warrior
from Bloomington, MN, USA Date Reviewed: July 12, 2001
Favorite Trail:
MN River Trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bike
Strengths:
Very bright very good coverage. Compared visually to NiteRider, liked wider coverage area. Seems and appears well constructed
Weaknesses:
Slightly overweight, but well worth the trade-off. Worry about the wire that seems flimsy. The wire connects the ballast to the light head.
Similar Products Used:
Looked at NiteRider HID. Also own NiteRider Digital Night owl for back up.
Bike Setup:
Trek Carbon Triple Ultegra Road, Trek 851 Ultegra Road, Fischer full suspension Mountain Bike and K2 Beast Full suspension Mountain Bike.
Bottom Line:
I liked it so much I own 2 of the lights. Make sure that you bring a second battery if you are going to use it for more than 3 hours.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Graeme Hornsby
a Cross Country Rider
from Thringstone,Leics,UK Date Reviewed: June 30, 2001
Favorite Trail:
chamonix valley
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$450.00
Strengths:
How bright? Really does last for 3 hours. Easy to recharge. Well built.
Weaknesses:
Additional ballast is a bit cumbersome and switch not easy to reach.
Bike Setup:
Giant XTC, Shimano XT, Hope discs, Pace Pro Class forks.
Bottom Line:
Used this light at the Red Bull 24 hour race. The comments from other riders said it all. 'nice lights' 'what is that' 'wow I could switch my lights off with you behind me' During the race you could look around parts of the course and see the Stadium riders - they really are that much brighter. If you want to ride off road at night for up to 3 hours, but this light. If you want to ride for more than this buy this light & a second battery.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Navin Poonpipat
a Weekend Warrior
from Irvine, CA, USA Date Reviewed: March 11, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Dark Hollow, Brian Head, UT
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$380.00
Purchased At:
RBMSPORTS.COM
Strengths:
1. The 21W. HID. is equivalent to 60W halogen. The temp. (color)is bluish white so it seems even brighter. BMW, Mercedes and Porsche have been using them for years, for a good reason. 2. Goes for 3 hrs, then a red LED indicates when you only have 10 mins. left. 3. Lamp easily aimed up/down, left/right with one thumbscrew. 4. Driving beam pattern, wide angle with slight bright spot in the center. 5. 3 hr. plug and forget charger. 6. Nice hard shell carrying case. 7. Tough alumimum lamp housing. 8. Everybody notices you, and says something nice (most of the time). 9. No helmet light needed. 10. Go about the same speed at night as daytime.
Weaknesses:
1. One power setting, max. No low power setting to extend running time. 2. Charging plug inside water bottle battery. 3. Separate ballast to mount. 4. On/Off switch is on ballast. 5. 15 sec. to warm up and reach full power. Must wait 10-30 sec. after you turn it off before you can turn it back on again. 6. Gives you night blindness after you turn off light.
Similar Products Used:
NightRider Pro-12 Extreme, that I returned, see below.
The brightest single beam available. The NightRider's HID is 10W. and isn't available yet. 3/'01 I tried the NightRider Pro-12 Extreme modified with dual 20W. and wasn't happy with the power output for the price. Plus it'll only last for 45mins. at 40W. So I spent about $50 more and bought the Stadium 3. So if you need LOTS of power and ride for less than 3hrs. this is your light. I did a lot of research and comparing, $380 is a lot of $. So this is my first real light and my last. Happy riding and help keep the trails open.... :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick Lawson
a Cross Country Rider
from Yorkshire, England Date Reviewed: January 13, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Thruscross --> Pool, Yorkshire
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
via Internet (scary stuff!)
Strengths:
BRIGHT & WIDE - I've had a couple of different (Cat-Eye) Halogen lights before that make a bright beam but it's about two feet wide and then nothing (or little) off the main beam. This stadium thing has lots of light everywhere - makes the trail as easy to ride as it is in the day (nearly). I even occasionally use it when riding back from work in Cambridge - the cars tend to stay well out of your way - must thing there's an alien landing or something...
Weaknesses:
Heavy and the starter unit is a bit of a pain. I'm a bit worried that the section of the cable from stater to light unit picks up kinks easily. I'd be happier if it used a more flexible cable here.
Similar Products Used:
Cat-Eye halogen somethig or other - only 10 watts.
Bike Setup:
Litespeed Occoee with Pace Pro-class forks, Hope/Mavic wheels with hope discs and XT groupset.
Bottom Line:
It's a lot of money - but then it's a lot of light.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver, CO Date Reviewed: January 9, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Open ones
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$325.00
Purchased At:
mtbr.com market place
Strengths:
Everything including the case. Can greet others by saying "greetings earthlings"
Weaknesses:
Ruins my friends ride when I'm behind. People like to call you a "blue light special"
Bike Setup:
Yeti & Dean. Steel & Ti.
Bottom Line:
Just wanted to submit a follow up to my previous review. This light rocks. All my buds who use the various nite rider systems are jealous. Makes you feel pretty good when they tell you your set up is the way to go. I have about 20 rides under my belt with the stadium-bottom line-there is no comparison
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross Country Rider
from Lakes District, England Date Reviewed: December 30, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Helvellyn/High Street/Coed Y Brenin
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
M&P, Staveley
Strengths:
It works. It burns for 2.5 - 3 hours. It is bright. VERY bright. Charges in 3 hours. Fantastic amount of blue light, ride as fast (if not faster) as daylight. It IS daylight!
Weaknesses:
Expensive. Cost me £280 (not $), but worth it if you ride regular at night - 24 hour races and stuff. Heavy too. Not sure about all the velcro straps yet, but time will tell.
Similar Products Used:
Lumicycle. Almost as good and 1/2 the price.
Bike Setup:
Pace F8 RC 200, Z1 CR, Hope pro closed 2 pot, Middleburn chain set, XT/XTR running gear
Bottom Line:
If you got the cash, ride at night BUY IT!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam
a Cross Country Rider
from Boston, MA Date Reviewed: November 4, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Flume Trail: California
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$425.00
Purchased At:
Performance (Team Performance)
Strengths:
Tremendous amount of bluish white light. I don't ride with a helmet light because this has so much coverage. Other lights seem to be yellow and fizzled in comparison. I've had friends with conventional systems follow me home with dead batteries. The construction is rugged: The light housing is sturdy aluminum, with a quick release. The water bottle battery is shaped perfectly to 'click' into your cage, and it comes with 2 velcro straps to really secure it. 3 hour + run time, 3 hour charge time, and the brightest light I've ever seen. It even ships with it's own hard shell plastic 'pelican' case. Most places have it for retail at $475. I joined Team Performance and got 10% off their $425 price.
Weaknesses:
Complicated setup: 1 handlebar mounted light unit, 1 water bottle battery, AND 1 small ballast unit that straps under your top tube. Also, the light has failed to turn on the first try once or twice. I just waited 5 seconds and tried it again with no problem.
Similar Products Used:
Old Vistalite 430 (I hope this Stadium runs as well after 6 years!), Niterider Dual
Bike Setup:
2000 Intense Tracer
Bottom Line:
Phenomenal Light-I couldn't wait for my backordered Specialized Fireballs Team to show up. I'm glad I went with this one. This is a keeper.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pal Kristoffer Sorvoll
a Cross Country Rider
from Asker, Norway Date Reviewed: October 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Birkebeinerrittet
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$375.00
Purchased At:
Din Sykkel, Norway
Strengths:
This is the best light ever. I commute daily 20 miles (each way) to my job and after I got the Stadium the cars handle me with respect. The light is extremely bright (xenon-light) and it gives enough light to go fast even in complete darknes. Several times have cars stopt when I met them because it is very difficult to see that it is only a bike behind the light.
Weaknesses:
None, but you have to remember the time. After 3 hours and 10 minutes it is all over.
Similar Products Used:
Smart.
Bike Setup:
Cannondale F1000, Mavic Crossmax.
Bottom Line:
The best light money can buy. (At least if you want to carry it)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jojo mojo
a Downhiller
from California Date Reviewed: September 22, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$460.00
Purchased At:
LOMBARDI
Strengths:
THE BRIGHTEST LIGHT I HAVE EVER SEEN. I GET PULLED OVER BY THE CHP AND THEY ASK ME WHERE I GOT THIS THING. GREAT LIGHT FOR NIGHT TIME DOWNHILLING.
Weaknesses:
IT IS A BIT HIGH IN PRICE BUT WORTH IT. HARD TO FIND REPLACEMENT PARTS.
Bike Setup:
GARY FISHER FULLY SUSPENDED/XTR EQUIPPED
Bottom Line:
IF YOU HAVE THE MONEY, THIS IS IT! THE CREAM OF THE CROP! A BIG IMPROVEMENT FROM THEIR FIRST GENERATION CATEYE.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Darren Birkin
a Cross Country Rider
from Nr Leighton Buzzard, UK Date Reviewed: September 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Technical Cross Country
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
Evans Cycles
Strengths:
Light quality and duration, quick recharge time.
Weaknesses:
Extra "ballast" to mount as well as the battery. Battery status light can't be seen whilst riding and is a bit useless anyway as it only shows "OK" or "10 mins left". Mounted above the bar it is kind of in the firing line during a wipe out.
Similar Products Used:
Cateye NC250 Cateye DayLites
Bike Setup:
Cannondale F2000SL Klein Mantra Race
Bottom Line:
Well they certainly kick out a decent amount of light - although perhaps not quite as much as I was expecting based on the previous reviews here. The light has a blueish tinge and a broad beam pattern. A 20watt halogen spot is probably brighter but with much less coverage. Overall though, this light does put out more light than other systems I've used and lights up the tail sufficiently for high speed thrashing (but then so do other less costly systems). A good light but perhaps not really worth all the extra cash over a decent halogen system (like the one on my other bike) so looses some value points in my view.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver, CO Date Reviewed: July 27, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Uncrowded ones
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Bright as day, quick charge time, sufficent burn time. Simple mount. Bomber construction, one setting, secure mounting for ballast and battery.
Weaknesses:
Price. No gauge to determine battery life. Brings my bike to the 25lb mark. Not very stealthy when trying to be unnoticed. Cars will high beam you if not pointed down. Bulbs at $100+. 30 second warm up time.
Similar Products Used:
Niterider digital pro 12, cateye micro halogen, night vision.
Bike Setup:
Dean colonel w/ all the chi chi parts
Bottom Line:
This light is absolutely incredible. It lights up the trail and eliminates the need for a head mount light. It almost allows you to ride the trails at a daytime speed. I've only logged three rides with it but anxious to see how durable it is over time.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff Spahn
a Racer
from Dubuque, IA USA Date Reviewed: July 20, 2000
Favorite Trail:
ALL
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Unbelievable light output. Battery is not too heavy. Light color makes things really stand out. Runs a long time.
Weaknesses:
Gets really hot.
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn Mod 3 light system. No comparison.
Bike Setup:
Jekyll 900 SL, Speedplay Frogs, IRC Notos Tires
Bottom Line:
You will want this light. Talk you dealer into getting it for you. The demand for these is high. I ordered mine in January through my local shop. Quality Dist. told him they were hard to get. Finally got it in July. WELL WORTH THE WAIT. Purple/white color of the light really shows the contrast and makes it easy to see. You won't need two lights with this thing, it does more than enough with one. Great Product. It doesn't come on with full brightness for about 30 seconds, much like a stadium light (hey what a great name for it) or a metal halide (that's what it is) light in a fish tank. GET THIS LIGHT!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Momo
a Downhiller
from San Francisco Date Reviewed: March 23, 2000
Favorite Trail:
North Star/Flame out
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
BRIGHTEST HANDLE BAR LIGHT, BAR NONE!!...ONE OF A KIND BIKE LIGHT WITH THE HIGH INTENSITY DISCHARGE COLOR OF HIGH END GERMAN SUPER CARS.
Weaknesses:
PRICE IS A BIT HIGH, $425 BUT WORTH IT.
Bike Setup:
GARY FISHER FULL SUSPENSION WITH CERAMIC SPINS
Bottom Line:
BEST LIGHT YOU CAN BUY ON THE MARKET. YOU WOULD STAND OUT IN TRAFFIC AT NIGHT. IF YOU HAVE THE MONEY TO BLOW, THIS IS THE LIGHT TO GO FOR! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
hammerdawg
a Weekend Warrior
from Houston, Texas Date Reviewed: March 10, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Bright, Bright, Bright! Charges up quick and seems to hold the charge. You cant beat the wide angle beam. HB Mount is simple and unchanged. Light casing seems stronger.
Weaknesses:
A little bulky but, an improvement over the first effort in durablity and securing to the frame. Excellance has it's price.
Similar Products Used:
Team Nightsun, Digital Headtrip
Bike Setup:
Ibis Ti Mojo w/ White Bros SC72UL & XTR
Bottom Line:
This light is the bottom line for night trail riding. It makes my Headtrip's beam get lost in the brillant blue light. If it lives up to the three hour charge and three hour burn time, then it will definitely have set the standard for the industry.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Terje Bolling
a Cross Country Rider
from Norway Date Reviewed: February 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
all
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Enormous light intensity, but most important: The contrast it creates.Ultra bright, sorry, that`s toothpaste...This is the only significant improvement in bike lighting since halogen.And just as dramatic.
Weaknesses:
You will annoy people who have recently spent slightly less money on a lighting system that seems almost discharged,yellow,and dull compared to yours...
Similar Products Used:
All kinds of dual halogen stuff.Modified and tweaked. Up to 40 Watts output.
Bike Setup:
98 GT LTS-1, XTR,no gripshi:t, Magura, Bomber Z1 Bam. Nokian Extreme 296(studs) tires.Snowing in Norway...
Bottom Line:
If you are going to buy a lighting system that doesn`t make your bike look like part of the latest Mars mission (just one lamp body,one switch)but still outshines and outlasts them all, look no further.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Crane
a Weekend Warrior
from England Date Reviewed: January 31, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Monument Valley,Baildon
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Has anybody else out there got a Stadium 3? I have had mine now for two months without problems, however I am getting emails from people who want one but are being told the light is unavailable. What in that case is currently on my bike?
Weaknesses:
Nothing to add to my previous review, still annoying car driversover here in Yorkshire
Similar Products Used:
as above
Bike Setup:
no change
Bottom Line:
Pre production example?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
david
a Cross-Country Rider
from Yorkshire,England Date Reviewed: December 21, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Ilkley moor Ba'tat
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
It's obviously the brightest light out there. A rather eerie blue-white cast, with very little peripheral fade.On some lights you get a central bright area with a halo of lesser intensity light, this is pretty even illumination. Three hour run time, three hour charge time. You can switch it on and off, although this probably cuts the burn time.
Weaknesses:
Separate ballast a little fiddly, also the warning lights are not visible whilst riding.
Similar Products Used:
BLT's of various kinds, Cat Eye's double halogen, I seem to buy a new light set every year, however this is the best i have come across.
Bike Setup:
Merlin mountain,Sids,Hope discs
Bottom Line:
Easily the best light set out there. Expensive and possibly a little over the top for road use, but money well spent, I've only used it six times so cannot comment on durability.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chris holmes
a Cross-Country Rider
from houston,tx Date Reviewed: December 2, 1999
Favorite Trail:
A 32mile trail in Farmington, New Mexico ,
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Incredible distance, I was able to see not only in a straight line directly ahead of me farther than any other light I have used, but also the light enabled me to see in to all turns becauseof the width of the light. The light also allowed me to noticed all branches and face slappers well above my head.
Weaknesses:
the price if your not serious but your gonna spend 3/4 of that amount on any other serious light and not reap any of the benifits. You will still end up following someone with a stadium light when your light shuts down after 1.5 hrs.
Similar Products Used:
no other light even comes close if you are a serious night rider. this light allows you to actually run similar lap time at night as you do during the day because of the brightnest.
Bike Setup:
Kona Explosif frame, XTR group with a Chris King headset, Syncros seat post, Kore stem, Titec Hell Bent riser bars,Mavic 517 ceramic rims with IRC and Hutchinson tires depending on the trail. and oh yeah I have 1997's MTB rated number 1, spokey dokes.
Bottom Line:
Greatest light out there period point blank. I race the Smithville 24hr race in Nov. in Texas and about 2:30am I had three people following me and my light in because they weren't able to fully charge there lights in the three hours between laps.
Overall Rating:
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