NiteRider Digital Pro 12-LCD Reviews

Home | Reviews | Manufacturers | NiteRider | Older Lights

NiteRider Digital Pro 12-LCD

MSRP			$ 389.00
# of Reviews			32
Average Rating			2.72/5

More Products from NiteRider

Submit a Review

Where To Buy

Webcyclery

Submit a Review

Submitted by greg patrick a from carson, ca Date Reviewed: November 9, 2006
Duration Product Used:	More than 3 years
Strengths:	Definitely NOT customer service or repair.
Weaknesses:	It needs a lot of customer service and repair, bringing us back to (see above).
Similar Products Used:	High intensity LED headlamps (Princeton Tec, Black Diamond, etc.) Cateye 500
Bike Setup:	Commuter.
Bottom Line:	So the folks at the Night Rider CS and repair department are either completely incompetent, or else they go out of their way to screw with people sending in things for repair. Three weeks ago I sent in a battery for repair. I spent lots of money for this ‘new’ battery to replace the old battery that turned off every time I hit a bump. The new battery is less than a year old. After not hearing from NR for two weeks, I called. “Yep, it’s got a broken connector” they told me. “We fixed it, but we need money from you.” It isn’t covered by the warranty. I asked why, and they told me the battery was too old. I explained that it was less than a year old, but the guy told me the date code (1605) on the battery says it’s over a year old so it isn’t under warranty. Once I produced the correct RMA from the pile of RMAs for NR on my computer, he was unable to further contest that the battery was in fact less than a year old. He then told me the battery warranty was only 180 days. True I said, but it’s a connector, not the battery, that failed. He said I’d need to pay. I told him to take the repaired cable off and send it back to me and I’d install a connector that actually worked on it myself. NiteRider’s warranty website states: "1-Year Warranty: Cables and Connectors, electronic components, printed circuit boards & HID bulbs and ballasts." Pretty clear to me. Yes you read that correctly. They sold me an old (date coded April) battery for full price in November, then wouldn’t cover it under warranty because it was too old! Even thought the part is under warranty per their own printed policy! Nice little scam they have going there. But it gets better! I yelled, screamed, threatened to write nasty letters, all in a very nice, professional phone voice and the guy on the other end, who sounded like he could care less, told me they’d comp the repair. Cool I think, they’re actually a stand-up company doing the customer right. Wrong. I just received the ‘repaired’ battery and the cable is too short to even reach the headlamp! They shipped the battery with a new cable that is only a foot long as opposed to the coiled, much longer stock version! I have half a mind to drive to San Diego and bludgeon someone with it personally!!! Actually, I think I’ll just make this forum my blog each time I’m wronged by the lovely folks at NR. To be continued, I’m certain.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by greg patrick a from Carson, CA Date Reviewed: November 7, 2006
Favorite Trail:	anything without goathead thorns
Duration Product Used:	More than 3 years
Strengths:	Great when it works. Flash mode is amazingly efficient at making me visible in traffic. Rear tail light is super bright. Bulbs and head unit are bombproof.
Weaknesses:	Breaks too often to be reliable. Leaves me in the dark regularly. Lights go out when I hit bumps. Recharging is cumbersome. Connector side loads against headset when handlebars are turned, causing failure. Requires a solid backup system to be mounted at all times. Batteries break and are un-repairable. Replacements cost $100 bucks. Tech guys tell you to squeeze the connector with vice grips to make it work right, then tell you it's a good design and want to charge you 20+ bucks to replace it after you finally realize it isn't ever going to work right.
Similar Products Used:	3W superbright headlamps mounted on helmet never give me a problem.
Bike Setup:	This bike is my daily driver. Don't drive the car unless I can't do it on my bike. Regular steel frame mountain bike with lights, reflectors, and more reflectors.
Bottom Line:	This is a great lighting system when/if it happens to be working. Repairs are needed often and are expensive. Requires a backup system to be installed at all times for those times when it fails. This is my fourth failure in six years. I expect a lot more quality for the money. Will probably not purchase this brand again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Steve a Cross Country Rider from Poconos, PA, USA Date Reviewed: September 1, 2006
Duration Product Used:	6 months
Price Paid:	$275.00
Purchased At:	Speedgo.com
Strengths:	Good idea that battery fits in waterbottle cage.
Weaknesses:	Waterbottle style battery is junk!!!
Bike Setup:	Giant XTC NRS 1
Bottom Line:	I used this light system 5 times, if I'm lucky. The battery needed charging, but my microbrute charger would not charge it. I sent it back to Niterider so they could "Power boost" it. They called me and told me that it can't be recharged, basically it is trash now, but they did tell me that I could replace the battery for $190. $190?? You're kidding me. Do yourself a favor and stay far away from this company. Products are way overpriced.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Chris a Cross Country Rider from Audubon, NJ, USA Date Reviewed: April 3, 2006
Favorite Trail:	Just Started Trail Riding!
Duration Product Used:	3 months
Price Paid:	$350.00
Purchased At:	Performance.com
Strengths:	Durability, Weather Resistance, Many Light Output Levels, Ease of use. When charged and running smoothly, the unit performs like a champ for road commutes. Very bright light. Drivers will think you are a motorcycle at 20W or 32W setting.
Weaknesses:	You must charge the unit at least once a month or else you will have to go through the 10 to 12 charging cycles over again to reach the theoretical 100% charge level. I have also read in another review that the pins must be aligned just right. I suspect this is true, since I sometimes notice the micro-brute charger is lit green when it should be red from a near zero level battery. When I reseated the cable, the problem was solved, and the battery was being charged. Anyway, if you are not the type of person that has a good deal of patience, I would not recommend this unit. If you like to solve problems on your own, then maybee. Run times are not as good as claimed. I have never attained the full 10 bars of charge capacity, but 9 isn't too bad.
Similar Products Used:	No, but have a simple LED light just in case the system needs a tune up.
Bike Setup:	Cannondale RUSH 400. Awsome Bike!
Bottom Line:	Not reliable enough for the price tag. Read many reviews before making a good lite purchase.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Richard Melhuish a Weekend Warrior from Modesto California Date Reviewed: February 23, 2005
Favorite Trail:	american river. Sacramento
Duration Product Used:	2 Years
Price Paid:	$400.00
Purchased At:	Performance Online
Strengths:	Fabulous lighting. Got the tail light also.Great Customer Service. Even though my light had a problem out of warranty they fixed it right away....at no charge !!
Weaknesses:	Cable connectors have to be lined up dead on ,other wise it's possible to get the dreaded error message on the control head.
Similar Products Used:	Actually have two sets of lights from Niterider.
Bike Setup:	Specialized with disc brakes
Bottom Line:	Two things. My unit required me to calibrate the unit after xxx amount of hours. Don't bother....That procedure contributed to my recent problem I beleive. Also the BIG ONE !! Be very carefull plugging the battery into the lamp etc. If yopu mis-align those pins on the cables the unit will give you error messages. Although Niterider recommends you unplug it when not in use, I leave mine connected all the time. I commute daily so the battery drain is minimal. So my advice.....when connecting the battery SLOW DOWN and make sure the two cables are lined up. After doing this I have had zero problems........Two Thumbs up to Niterider for their service........Happy Customer in California.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Steve Low a Weekend Warrior from Orinda,CA, Date Reviewed: December 26, 2004
Favorite Trail:	Downeyville
Duration Product Used:	2 Years
Price Paid:	$350.00
Purchased At:	Performance
Strengths:	bright whenyou can turn the light on.
Weaknesses:	Batteries do not keep a charge.
Similar Products Used:	any light system
Bike Setup:	Santacruze Bullit
Bottom Line:	Nightrider Pro 12 digitel sucks the big ones.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Scott a Cross Country Rider from Cupertino, CA Date Reviewed: October 30, 2004
Duration Product Used:	1 Year
Price Paid:	$350.00
Purchased At:	Cupertino Bike Shop
Strengths:	Lights up the trail! Good info from LCD. Easy to adjust light output. Goes into reserve mode at low battery or if there is a problem.
Weaknesses:	Reliability, but Niterider knew of problem and was quick to fix
Similar Products Used:	NightSun (customer service attitude caused me to switch to Niterider)
Bike Setup:	Santa Cruz Superlight
Bottom Line:	The DP12 LCD has everything I need in a light and more! It provides a ton of light, the LCD gives all the information I want, and the light has safety features if needed. I did need the reserve mode two weeks ago unfortunately. Turns out the programming in the light's circuits failed and it required a reboot. I have an an early version of the DP12 so I had to send it in for the reboot. Niterider was very responsive with an RMA and fixed it within a week. They even upgraded the circuitry to the newer version so I can do a reboot on the trail if needed. In addition to the DP12, I have a Digital Headtrip and just bought a Cyclone HID so my two sons can ride with me. I would not consider anything but a Niterider because they are the best, and they take care of their customers!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Nick a Cross Country Rider from Santa Barbara, CA Date Reviewed: October 17, 2004
Duration Product Used:	More than 3 years
Price Paid:	$350.00
Purchased At:	Bicycle Bobs
Strengths:	Very reliable
Weaknesses:	Heavy. Expensive.
Bike Setup:	Used for commuting and trail riding at night. I also have the Nite Rider tailight attached.
Bottom Line:	This light has operated virtually trouble free for me for over 6 years. The only time it stopped working was when I rode once in torrential rain. I sent it in to NR for repair and I had it back within 10 days. I've blown three bulbs, but the light switches to the other bulb when this happens so you don't even have to stop riding! If you commute or trail ride several evenings a week, then this light is for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Jon Heeley a Cross Country Rider from California Date Reviewed: September 16, 2004
Favorite Trail:	Too many!
Duration Product Used:	2 Years
Price Paid:	$250.00
Strengths:	High power (when working)
Weaknesses:	Beam pattern too narrow. Flimsy attachment of light to bracket. Incredibly unreliable charging and charge capacity
Similar Products Used:	Turbocat 32SR
Bike Setup:	Kona King Kikapu, Bianchi BUSS
Bottom Line:	First off I am usually a cheerful optimist. But I have been incredibly disappointed with this product. It has never worked properly despite being returned twice. The main problem is the battery will not charge properly. The battery is supposed to have some sort of'brain' to know how much charge is left, and to just recharge appropriatly just by plugging it to the charger. Well forget that. If there is any juice left in it after a ride it has never charged up fully the next time. The number of times I have come in from work looking forward to a night ride only to see that after being plugged in all day it is only at one third capacity! The only way I have occasionally got it to fully charge is to completly run the thing down prior to recharging. This defeats the object of payimg a premium for the so called smart charger. I returned the product twice through customer service. The charger was replaced with a newer model (no improvement), I have done a battery calibration numerous times (no improvement) More! the light is loose on the mounting bracket causing a slight beam shake when off road. The screw that holds the 'mounting tab' to the light body fell out. What a shoddy design - -one self tapper holding the light on! I bought this product on the strength of the name. Well all I can say is be very careful about your decision!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Elvis Karate a Racer from Kalamazoo, MI USA Date Reviewed: September 3, 2004
Duration Product Used:	2 Years
Purchased At:	LBS
Strengths:	The waterbottle battery didn't fall out of the cage when riding.
Weaknesses:	Reliability, design, Niteriders lack of customer service.
Similar Products Used:	Nearly everything
Bottom Line:	I bought this light about 2 years ago, and it didn't work correctly straight out of the box. The shop sent it back and got another one. I have used it less than one dozen times and it seems to have less funtions each time. Currently only the 20 watt light illuminates if the light comes on at all, but for a little while only 32 watts would illuminate. I was 24 hour Wisconsin 2 weeks ago and the Micro Brute melted at the neutral charging station. I didn't know it was hot until I burned my hand unplugging the thing. I have tried to contact Night rider and they don't care. In talking to the local shops it is the same story, we don't carry Niterider any more because there crap sucks and they wont service the product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by james condino a Cross Country Rider from bend, or, usa Date Reviewed: May 16, 2004
Duration Product Used:	1 Year
Price Paid:	$375.00
Purchased At:	bike shop
Strengths:	godd power, two bulbs- agreat system when one burns out
Weaknesses:	six month lifespan;fails to live up to its claims;niterider does not boak up its products.
Similar Products Used:	every light system that I have been able to get my hands on
Bike Setup:	litespeed hardtail, full xtr setup
Bottom Line:	I average 200 nights a year of riding on the trail, on the road, and as a daily bike commuter. I have been doing this for about 12 years, so good light systems are not new to me...The bottom line is that I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER LIGHT FROM NIGHTRIDER AGAIN AND WILL NEVER RECOMMEND ONE!!!! This makes me sad, because I think they have the best designs and are about the only light that will withstand everyday use in the wet winters of Oregon...This light broke three times in eighteen months. I sent it back and niterider treated me like an idiot. The last time I sent it in, they lost if for several months, returned it and said it worked fine (it didn't work at all), and then when I sent it back they told me that they would not recognize the warranty, but for $200 they could fix the problem. I spent ten years telling everyone I know to buy Niterider lights and selling 100s of them in stores....now I'll spend the next ten years telling everyone to buy anything else!!!!! A bum product once in a while happens, but awfull customer service is another issue...the rumor on the streets is that they were bought out by a couple of corporate dorks who only care about money....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Scott a from Bethesda, MD Date Reviewed: April 8, 2004
Duration Product Used:	2 Years
Price Paid:	$300.00
Strengths:	When the light works, I appreciate the multiple wattage levels and ease of switching. This feature extends battery life.
Weaknesses:	Entirely unreliable. I sent it back once for repair, but there has been no change in the results. The light goes out for no apparent reason too frequently. I've relied on tricks to fix it, but I'm giving up.
Bike Setup:	Commuter
Bottom Line:	Do not purchase this product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Rob Morse a Racer from Aptos Date Reviewed: January 22, 2004
Favorite Trail:	Big Slide
Duration Product Used:	2 Years
Price Paid:	$325.00
Purchased At:	Performance
Strengths:	Good light when it works
Weaknesses:	Totally unreliable. 3 of us have the same set-up and all three of us have had problems! These lights are junk. They consistently fail without warning. Replacement batteries are expensive.
Similar Products Used:	Nightsun, Jet, Viewpoint, home made, Cateye, etc.
Bike Setup:	Turner w/xtr, fox shox, disc etc.
Bottom Line:	Don't do it!! I also have the Digital Head Trip as do 2 of my friends and each of us have had to send those back for repairs. At least they didn't charge us for the repairs but that is a small price for potentially getting left in the dark on a trail 15 miles from home! Nightrider needs to work on their reliability. I demo'd the Jet several years ago and that will be my next light.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by John Carden a from London UK Date Reviewed: November 20, 2003
Duration Product Used:	2 Years
Price Paid:	$400.00
Purchased At:	London Bike shop (now closed)
Strengths:	Has never worked long enough for me to find out!
Weaknesses:	Unreliability, battery, digital lamp control and charger have all failed at different times. Response from Nightrider or UK distributor (not trading anymore) has always been reluctant and delayed. Have had to buy cheaper lamps to keep going on the bike at night.
Similar Products Used:	No other high end lights used
Bike Setup:	Various road bikes
Bottom Line:	I currently have this £250 setup out of use and am ordering a £70 Smart system to keep me going. Problems have been: Lamp control failed - replaced after I sent it back. Battery failed - complete new system supplied (I am not mentioning the difficulty that I had convincing them that it was not some mis-use on my part that had affected the lights) Light control failed, stuck on 12 watt setting, I lived with that, at least it worked and I could ride. Battery still discharges quickly if left for say 2 days off charger. If I left it on the charger the light would go out and the trickle top-up charge was not taking place. I'd find out when I had less that half a charge when going out Now the charger has melted and I am stuck without lights. *Niterider are steadfastly are refusing to answer my emails. The UK distributor has a disconnected phone and no website anymore, so i assume they have ceased trading. The shop where I bought the lights has also ceased trading, so I'm kind of up a gum tree without a paddle, if I may mix my metaphors.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Richard a Weekend Warrior from Modesto California Date Reviewed: August 15, 2003
Duration Product Used:	1 Year
Price Paid:	$300.00
Purchased At:	Performance Online
Strengths:	System gives excellent visibility
Weaknesses:	Have to disconnect cables daily to conserve battery life
Similar Products Used:	2 simpler Niterider systems. Very reliable both stolen!!
Bike Setup:	Specialized Stumpjumper System has tail light with optional extension cable
Bottom Line:	Various issues in the beginning terminating in a melted charger. Calibration seemed impossible. Finally mailed it back. Had a great response from NR and unit was fixed outside of the warranty period and returned to me promptly at no charge. My confidence in the product is returning although I have not calibrated the battery yet. If it is'nt broken why dicker with this step?? I use it daily to commute with. Works very well now and no complaints afetr 3 months of daily use. Customer Service was prompt. I would agree that a 1 800 number is reasonable.....even a tube of toothgpaste has one of those!! Would buy from them again based on the Customer Service I received....If you buy this system you MUST get the tailight and extension cable if on a rack. If safety is a concern this unit RULES. Probably was sent to market without any BETA (in field) testing I imagine.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by James Graham a Cross Country Rider from Chillicothe, Texas Date Reviewed: August 1, 2003
Favorite Trail:	none
Duration Product Used:	1 Year
Price Paid:	$250.00
Purchased At:	eBay
Bike Setup:	Vison R-42 Recumbent
Bottom Line:	I have used this light for 1 year now. It set over last winter for 3 months, charger connected, but not used. When starting back riding this spring it took about 6 charging cycles to get the battery back to full use again. I used the light 5-6 times per week. I mostly ride during the day and use it for safety reasons. I have been told by freinds they can see the light coming long time before they can see my bike. I adjust the light level for the time I plan on riding so it pretty much fully discharges each time. Two weeks ago I changed the light to my recumbent bike. It started giving me a ERR on the screen but the light continued to work. I called Niterider and was told to send it in for repairs and was told two week turnaround. Two weeks to the day I recieved the light back, new display, and new charger, NO CHARGE!! Maybe I was just lucky that I got a good one, but I have only had that one problem and it was taken care of!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Keith Benson a Cross Country Rider from Austin, TX USA Date Reviewed: July 28, 2003
Favorite Trail:	Emma Long
Duration Product Used:	Less than 1 month
Price Paid:	$379.00
Purchased At:	Bike Shop
Strengths:	Great product if you like being stranded in the dark.
Weaknesses:	The fancy schmancy high tech digital doohickey should have gone through more R&D before release.
Similar Products Used:	Nite Rider Storm
Bike Setup:	Ventana - Super Ego build
Bottom Line:	I followed the setup directions exactly as specified in the manual. So, by my first night ride I had a full charge on the display and things were beautiful and bright. The ability to easily scroll through the different light settings was a great feature. About 10 minutes into the ride my buddy had a technical problem so I stopped, turned off the Nite Rider and used my flashlight to help him out. A few minutes later his problem was solved and I climbed on the bike and pushed the buttons to flood the trail with light. What's this? Low battery? It went from a full charge to empty in the matter of a few minutes. I unplugged, replugged, shook it and did my best voodoo dance but nothing worked. It was running on reserve and about to shut down. Fortunately I had my trusty (non-digital) headlamp system so I wasn't stranded. I took it back home and attempted a recharge only to find it wouldn't take a charge. That was enough for me. My local bike shop had heard the story before and exchanged it for an HID system. Bottom line...You probably have a 50/50 chance of getting a working one of these. I guess you pays your money and you takes your chances. But who wants to find that out 9 miles into a night ride? Great idea...poor execution.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Yas Katagiri a from Minneapolis Date Reviewed: May 13, 2003
Duration Product Used:	2 Years
Price Paid:	$250.00
Purchased At:	e-bay
Strengths:	Bright, convenient controls
Weaknesses:	VERY, VERY, VERY unreliable. For the 2.5 years I've owned it, I've had to send it back 3 times! The first time was when it was brand new and not even used. The chip was bad! Now, it looks like I may have to send it back in a fourth time. Absolutely rediculous! I have been fortunate enough to have a contact at niterider that has taken good care of me but it still doesn't make up for the fact that I have to send it in once or twice a year for repair. In addition, I've had to pay for shipping everytime. So far I've spent close to $100 on shipping alone!!!!! When the stupid thing works, it is a great light but reliabilty is non-existant! I've put so much money into this thing I'm hesitant to abandon it but after malfunction #4 I think I've had it. DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY ON THIS PRODUCT!!! BUY SOMETHING ELSE. A MAGLITE STRAPPED TO YOUR HANDLEBAR WITH A ZIPTIE WOULD BE MORE RELIABLE! I also SCUBA dive and it is frightening to see that this company makes dive lights too! Holy cow, when you SCUBA Dive and your light goes on the blink during a dive, it could be a life or death situation! I certainly wouldn't risk my life with this company!!!!!
Bike Setup:	RANS Recumbent
Bottom Line:	A piece of poop. Save your money! There are plenty of other more reliable light systems out there that are a lot cheaper!!!!! Please, please, those of you that read this and are thinking of purchasing this product, believe me when I tell you that it is not worth the plastic it is made from.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Craig Pack a from Okinawa Japan Date Reviewed: March 30, 2003
Favorite Trail:	Spider loop
Duration Product Used:	1 Year
Price Paid:	$250.00
Purchased At:	E-bay
Strengths:	I've used this light on my road bike on average twice a week for the past year. So far so good. No fatal flaws. Most people would mistake the light from one coming from a scooter or motorbike.
Weaknesses:	The whole light system is about 3 lbs which is felt when climbing. Usually the battery won't charge completely unless I repeat the charging sequence a couple of times.
Similar Products Used:	None
Bike Setup:	Klein Quantum/Campy record
Bottom Line:	To expensive but nice.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Brian Stevenson a Cross Country Rider from Boulder, CO, USA Date Reviewed: February 6, 2003
Favorite Trail:	not telling
Duration Product Used:	2 Years
Price Paid:	$389.00
Purchased At:	Boulder Sports
Strengths:	Versatility
Weaknesses:	Poor circuitry (Nite Rider told me this), battery, micro brute charger
Bike Setup:	Fat Chance Yo Eddy, K2 Enemy Cyclocross
Bottom Line:	The bottom line is the lighting system is not reliable. I have had my light to warranty twice (always a struggle). I followed the break-in instructions to the letter and still experienced early burn out and inconsistent readings from the LCD screen. I charge the light and store it in my bedroom between rides and have found the battery to hold a charge for only about 24-36 hours, after which the burn time seriously dimishes. I use the light alot (2-3x a week in winter and weekly fall, spring summer) and find more frustration than not. My advice, spend less money and get a more reliable light.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Mark a Cross Country Rider from Olympia, Washington, USA Date Reviewed: December 12, 2002
Favorite Trail:	Capital Forest
Duration Product Used:	Less than 1 month
Price Paid:	$350.00
Purchased At:	trade in through NiteRider
Strengths:	more light than you could possibly need when working, cool LCD readout for wattage, battery meter
Weaknesses:	cables too short, tail light will not work with typical road bike rack mount, very poor customer service, no 1-800 number, very weak connections (will not stay together under slightest bumps)
Similar Products Used:	NiteRider classic
Bike Setup:	Trek 930 SHX, Cannondale T2000
Bottom Line:	Traded my NiteRider Classic system including tail light to Nite Rider for this "new technology" light. New tail light cord was too short to reach connector, and no extension is available. Customer service told me that it was my problem. Headlight worked OK for about the first 20 minutes, then battery level showed low. Completely charged battery again, but when connected to light, showed less than half full. Read about "resetting" the light, but didn't help. Too bad that NiteRider had to change their product line so that none of their old models are compatable with their old stuff. They had a good thing going. My Classic headlight/tail light system worked great. I commute to work 9 months of the year, and it worked great. Both the battery and charger went bad at the same time.....go figure. I had to file complaint with the Better Business Bureau to get Customer service to refund my money seeral months after I sent them the light back! I wouldn't waste your money for this "top of the line" product. Go with a company that has some customer service.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Grover a Cross Country Rider from Houston Date Reviewed: November 14, 2002
Favorite Trail:	Rocky Hill Ranch
Duration Product Used:	3 months
Price Paid:	$370.00
Purchased At:	Online at Performance.com
Strengths:	Appearance, easy to use, very durable, extremely bright, reliable, battery "fuel gage", multiple brightness levels, 2 bulbs, extremely long runtime. Very firm and easy to adjust mounting, "reserve tank" mode.
Weaknesses:	No "1-800" number, or online customer support. No spare bulbs included. See below for more info.
Similar Products Used:	None
Bike Setup:	Cannondale F-2000 XTR
Bottom Line:	I purchased this light online through Performance. The unit was received in excellent condition with no problems noted. It was a bit pricey, but after using this light I think it was money well spent. It performed flawlessly for about two hours when the 12 watt bulb burnt out. This had to be a fluke, since these bulbs are supposed to last for 1000 hrs or so. Since the bulb is one of the items covered under warranty, I attempted to contact Niterider through their online customer support. I was immediately sent an automated message stating that the online method of contacting customer support was unavailable. Since I had a 24 hr race in 2 weeks I elected not to pursue further corrective action through warranty and bought a bulb from a local bike shop for 12 dollars....probably cheaper than calling Niterider and sending the unit back, and definitely a quicker fix. This bulb is more than likely not made by NR and looks very similar to bulbs made by WIKO. I hesitate to blame NR for this defect, since it obviously worked when it left the factory. I should also point out that the "bulb out" sensing feature worked as advertised. The 20 watt bulb immediately came on after the 12 watt went out. This feature can be a lifesaver in a night race. You will need a 7/64" allen wrench to access the bulbs, but they include one of these with the bulb, however it would be a good idea to purchase a set of jewelers screwdrivers, since you will need a small one to remove the bulb from the wiring harness. Now on to the race. The weather was absolutely nasty. The cold, wet, rainy, muddy conditions gummed up every component on my bike...except this light. It worked flawlessly even after several nasty spills, and was so bright that I found myself rarely using the 32 watt mode. 12 watts was bright enough to handle most of the race course, and some instances I was able to see sufficiently in "walking mode". When more light was needed, a quick flick of the conveniently located dimmer switches brought both bulbs to life, putting 32 watts of halogen light on the trail. The battery fuel gage and time remaining was useful in conserving battery life, and through proper management was able to keep my recharge time to a minimum after every use. After a 2 hour race lap using all brightness levels at different times, I still had over 2 hours of battery time remaining in 12 watt mode. The cables are easy to connect, even in the dark, and hold very tight. I recommend using a silicone based sealant such as Dow Corning DC-4 to seal the connections if you plan on riding in bad weather. Don't believe the hype about not being able to use this light until the "calibration" after 10 or so charge cycles is done. This unit is ready to use after the first charge. Bottom line: Read the instructions when you get this light. If you have problems with this light, you either have poor reading comprehension skills or you ended up with a lemon. With the exception of the burnt 12 watt bulb I had NO problems with this light and have not had any as of this date. This system is very bright and is only outshined by the HID systems. It makes up for this in its list of features. I'm giving it a 4, only because I think it should be easier to contact the manufacturer if a problem does arise.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by James a Cross Country Rider from Chillicothe, Texas Date Reviewed: October 16, 2002
Favorite Trail:	any
Duration Product Used:	3 months
Price Paid:	$250.00
Purchased At:	ebay
Strengths:	LCD screen, variable light intensity, tail light option
Weaknesses:	Need more adjustments.
Similar Products Used:	Vista
Bike Setup:	GT Agressor I
Bottom Line:	This light has performed flawless for me. I ride 4 to 5 times a week at night. I added the tail light a week after getting the headlight and so far I had NO problems at all. The variable light is great as I usually get started right after dark. About the time I finish riding I am on a semi-major highway and I turn it up to 32 watts. I get home, put the charger on and its ready to go by the next night. Do to my handlbar arrangement I had to modify the bracket some so my light was flat instead of tilted. I think the bracket needs little more adjustability. Other than that, the light is awesume. I highly recommend this light!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Charley a Cross Country Rider from Redlands, CA Date Reviewed: September 30, 2002
Favorite Trail:	The one I'm on
Duration Product Used:	Less than 1 month
Price Paid:	$200.00
Purchased At:	Performance
Strengths:	Wide variety of wattage choices Quick charging Solid construction
Weaknesses:	Original Micro brute charger was received damaged
Similar Products Used:	Nitpro Lights n Motion
Bike Setup:	Marin Mount Vision
Bottom Line:	Getting ready for a 24h race, my buddy and I both bought the lights from Performance who had a deal on reconditioned sets. Unfortunately, both came with Micro-brute chargers that were broken. I called Niterider and was connected with Vanessa in customer service. Told her the problem and that time was tight. Without hesitation, she asked for my address and overnight shipped 2 new Micro-brutes. No hassels,no questions,no charge, no problem. I dont know why other reviewers have bad mouthed Niterider's service. It was amazing, Vanessa rocks!!!! The light works great, battery time was as promised. Just a hint to others who have had problems- READ AND FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS for charging and calibration! This light set is for serious night riding, the cost is high but the product delivers. 4 Flamers for value but 5 giant hot ones for Vanessa and Niterider customer service!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Brent Parker a Weekend Warrior from Greensburg PA Date Reviewed: August 29, 2002
Favorite Trail:	Whitetail resort
Duration Product Used:	1 Year
Price Paid:	$150.00
Purchased At:	Employee purchase
Strengths:	Very bright, stout light. I THREW mine a while back during a mild fit of anger :-) and it still works fine. The battery life indicator is awesome.
Weaknesses:	I originally purchased a niterider Dig. pro 12 back in 99' or 2000, since then I have had to send it back twice for various problems. First time the battery wouldnt hold its charge (this was after a year and a half) the second time was immediately afterwards, the computer was shorting out and would not turn the light on. Their customer service was great, They knew my light was like a year beyond its warranty yet they still replaced it twice. MY new light seems to have a sub par cable connection, it flicks off on occasion when crossing logs or curbs, I think some tape will fix this though.
Similar Products Used:	Vista lite 530 (back in 98') great light, outdated now though.
Bike Setup:	Giant Mcm SE, Handlebar light setup
Bottom Line:	Bottom line... hmmm the light is great however I think the general consensus is that the niterider durability is somewhat lacking. The lights are bright, and very strongly made they shouldnt break in a crash like some other lights. I would recommend running a helmet + bar combo with their lights because they do tend to have occasional problems. BTW i purchased my light on employee purchase thru a mtb shop, so maybe they gave me special treatment on my warrany.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Nir a Downhiller from Israel Date Reviewed: August 13, 2002
Favorite Trail:	DH/FR/XC/ROAD
Duration Product Used:	6 months
Price Paid:	$380.00
Purchased At:	NY
Strengths:	A lot of light (If its work)
Weaknesses:	A lot of error, bad service from NR
Similar Products Used:	hand made light(I developed), specialized-fireball
Bike Setup:	specialized bighit DH,W RaceFace,Azonic,OutLand,Answer and mor...
Bottom Line:	I bought my D.Pro LCD last 7 months in N.Y. this product too independent: all the time the lamps on / off(connector problem). usually the LCD light not work. and the battery empty sometimes 1 hour and sometimes 10 minutes. I it's very bad product for 380$ !!! i'm think is it best NR product !!! I sent Email to NR but NO ANSWER THERE. keep your self form NR products
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Jonathan a Weekend Warrior from Seattle Date Reviewed: April 1, 2002
Favorite Trail:	Lewis River
Duration Product Used:	3 months
Price Paid:	$375.00
Purchased At:	online
Strengths:	See previous review.
Weaknesses:	Quit working!
Similar Products Used:	XCR Pro
Bottom Line:	Well, I guess I will get to find out about Niterider's costomer support since my Digital Pro 12 LCD (2002) just quit working. I suspect a problem at the light with the connection to the battery. First contact not very promising - their customer support server is not responding! I still like the light but...well...it doesn't!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Sergio Quiroz a Cross Country Rider from Hermosillo, Sonora, México. Date Reviewed: January 22, 2002
Favorite Trail:	Tremo´s Track
Duration Product Used:	3 months
Price Paid:	$280.00
Purchased At:	jensonusa.com
Strengths:	Lots of light! cool lcd screen, shows you the remaining burn time. Light weight, long burn time even with the 32 watt setting.
Weaknesses:	Cables sucks, too short with out the extension and too long with one. You got to get the conections very secure so they don disconect with vibrations or tree branches.
Similar Products Used:	Vista light (old model), Nite rider dual classic, trail rat, digital evolution and digital pro 12 lcd.
Bike Setup:	Sugar 3 2000, full XT
Bottom Line:	I have years using Nite Rider products, and never had a problem with them, but with the new models 2002 the first nite rides i had problems with the wiring, my lights went off in two different nights (guess it got disconected with vibration or tree branches), I was about to kill my self. Those sopouse to be systems designed for SERIOUS niteriders, they shoud have teste that kind of conectors, i never had problems with the conectors in the older models, but besides that every thing is great. Nite rider products seam to give much brigter light than other systems no matter the watts are the same. Ideal buyer: The frecuent and technical nite rider, for technicals and long rides Suggestion: Check on those conectors.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Jonathan a Weekend Warrior from Seattle Date Reviewed: January 11, 2002
Duration Product Used:	Less than 1 month
Price Paid:	$360.00
Purchased At:	Online
Strengths:	Bright, lightweight, good battery life and nice features.
Weaknesses:	Cable connecting light to battery is too short without an extension and too long with one.
Similar Products Used:	Earlier model XCR Pro
Bike Setup:	Steelman Cyclocross (used mostly as a commuter) and Davidson 853 hardtail. Steel all the way!
Bottom Line:	When my XCR Pro was stolen (Bast@#ds!) I needed another light quickly. I am a year-round commuter and the XCR Pro had paid for itself many times over by bringing me to the attention of distracted motorists in addition to enabling many evening and night mountain bike rides. I ordered the Digital Pro-12 (2002) online and only then read the reviews on mtbr.com. After reading the first two reviews, I thought I might have made a big mistake! However, I have used the light for about a month now and have had no problems whatsoever. This light is probably the best you can buy. It has all the great features of NiteRider's previous digital models with a few extras, a better display, a great NiMH battery that is lightweight and has a long run time. My favourite new feature is the always-on battery level indicator. My only complaint so far is that the cable connecting the light is too short without an extension and too long with one. I think the old-style "curly" cable was more versatile. I am also a little concerned about Niterider's customer service. It is clear from some of the previous postings that there are some very angry Niterider customers out there! Being the best company is about more than just putting out the best product. Niterider needs to take better care of the few customers that seem to have problems with their excellent products.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Hans Garcia a Racer from San Diego Date Reviewed: January 3, 2002
Favorite Trail:	Marlette Flume
Duration Product Used:	3 months
Price Paid:	$369.00
Purchased At:	online
Strengths:	Being able to monitor the time remaining in the battery is an incredible feature. The handlebar quick release clamp is awesome. The battery charges in less than 5 hours. The battery is light for a water bottle style. You can also plug the battery in whenever you want 'cause it's not a Ni-cad.
Weaknesses:	What if it does'nt have any?
Similar Products Used:	Nightsun, Cateye, Light in Motion
Bike Setup:	Voodoo D-Jab Ti frame, Judy SL, Grip shift, XTR, 26 spoke Sun rims on Ringle hubs, Speedplays, Monkeybars, Syncros Ti seatpost, old Kooka-Racha levers that are not compatible with my V-brakes-this, is my version of anti-lock!
Bottom Line:	I have just recently returned from the Eco-Challenge in New Zealand. Our team (#51 Hotjobs.com/ Helly Hansen) chose Nite Rider lights for what the race director, Mark Burnett promised would be the most demanding Mtn bike leg to date. The 110K course had some very long, steep fire road descents with equally steep hike-a-bikes. What was super cool about Nite Rider's digital 12 pro was the ability to select so many light levels. When we were walking up hill we'd switch to 'ultra low' which is just enough for walking speed and when it came time to bomb the descents we'd just crank it up to 32 watts... instant daylight. The digital screen tells you which watt level you're in and how much time the battery has left in each watt level! This was awesome! Something that Nite Rider doesn't tell you in their ads or web page is that the digital 12 pro has several other light functions including S.O.S! I don't ride alone at night very often but it's cool to have that option of signaling for emergency help. This last Eco-Challenge also had extensive rafting sections with rivers that would divide into dozens of little rivers and then re-join and then break up again, this, I learned is called a braided river. And they SUCK!! Every time you'd choose the wrong river it meant having to drag the 200 lb raft back upstream to find the main river line. Before our second river leg we decided to bring the Nite Rider's 'Storm' light in case we had to paddle throught the "maze" at night. What a key decision that was! The Storm is a 10 watt h.i.d light (high intensity discharge) that shines like a Porsche headlight. This thing is freakin' bright! We passed a river safety official who was standing on the bank of the river and he yelled out "what the f___k is that!!". We did not make a single wrong turn the entire last night of our race. True, they are a bit pricey but I'm a firm believer in 'you get what you pay for' and we were not about to show up to a 7 day, 400 kilometer, 60,000+ feet of elevation gain race with less than excellent equipment. If you ride slow and aren't concerned too much with quality, then this light is not for you. If you are someone who likes to do things right the first time or ride in traffic at night or race the 24 hour races or live in Alaska or want the best light made then this light is for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Doug Sloan a Racer from Fresno, CA Date Reviewed: December 13, 2001
Duration Product Used:	3 months
Price Paid:	$389.00
Purchased At:	mail order
Strengths:	Bright when it works
Weaknesses:	Does not work - DO NOT BUY THESE LIGHTS!
Similar Products Used:	2001 model; Cygolight Night Rover; 2.5 watt AA cell lights
Bottom Line:	Niterider purports to be a smart light. Well, this is the stupidest light I've ever seen. My AA cell 2.5 watt light is more intelligent. First, it won't charge. At least it "thinks" it's not charged. Spend 5 hours getting through to tech support for a "reset" procedure. That might make it work for one ride. Then, it intermittently goes out, won't come one, goes into "calibration" mode only, or won't recognize a full battery. These systems are unproven, untested, absolute junk. While they seemed to hold great promise, reality breaks that promise immediately. Customer support is sparse. It's hard to get through to them, and then they act like either I'm the idiot and can't work the thing, or some goofy reset procedure should cure all the ills. They will not respond to e-mail, unless you call an automated "we don't read our e-mail" response a response. I bought a 2001 (the gray model) and then a 2002 (the black one), and they both do the same things. These are horrible, horrible products. They do not get any worse. They have left me without lights on several night rides; this is dangerous and very aggravating. I CANNOT UNRECOMMEND THESE PRODUCTS STRONGLY ENOUGH! BTW, the retailers are allowing me to return them. Thank goodness.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

Submitted by Philip Core a from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Date Reviewed: November 8, 2001
Duration Product Used:	3 months
Price Paid:	$420.00
Strengths:	Irrelevant
Weaknesses:	Unreliable Zero customer support
Similar Products Used:	Flashlight with faulty battery
Bike Setup:	Gary Fisher Big Sur loaded for commuting
Bottom Line:	See my review filed under NiteRider Digital 12 LCD. I have had two 2001 LCDs and one 2002 LCD since July. They all had the same problem. They needed to be "recalibrated" one third of the time. In other words one out of every three times you plug them in they won't work and you won't ride that night! Nite Rider gave me zero customer support. I spent months trying to get an LCD model from Nite Rider that worked because I loved the features when the lights did work. In the 2002 they changed the cabling completely to try to solve their problem and they failed. My other reviews give much more detail. I felt obliged to post this here so that there would be no mistake that the 2002 has the same problems as the previous model.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:

What's New
»	BEST OF MTBR - Check out the highest rated bikes, parts, & gear!
»	LED BIKE LIGHT SHOOTOUT 3 - We test all the newest products and latest light and battery technology in this comprehensive guide»
»	INTERBIKE - See all the latest 2010 bikes, parts, and gear in our extensive Tradeshow Coverage»

Latest Articles and Reviews:

Photo Caption Contest

(sponsored by Maxxis)

Enter here

Contact Us • About Us • Terms of Use • Privacy Policy • Advertising

MtbREVIEW.com	RoadbikeREVIEW.com	OutdoorREVIEW.com
PhotographyREVIEW.com	VideogameREVIEW.com	ComputingREVIEW.com
AudioREVIEW.com	CarREVIEW.com	GolfREVIEW.com