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NiteRider
Digital Pro-6 Light
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Submitted by
Dinty Moore
a Weekend Warrior
from Austin, TX, USA
Date Reviewed: February 8, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$210.00 | | Purchased At: | REI | | Strengths: | Variable light intensities | | Weaknesses: | Battery | | Bottom Line: | When my battery died, I called NightRider and their replacement cost was about $ 175. I went to Batteries Plus and they rebuilt the thing for 50 bucks. Works great. Hindsight though, I would probably go ahead and buy a better LED or newer technology light that doesn't take this heavy of a battery. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian Stevenson
a Weekend Warrior
from San Mateo, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: April 18, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Santa Barbara Trails | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$150.00 | | Purchased At: | Sports Chalet | | Strengths: | Solid light distribution.
Able to conserve battery life with 3 5W,10W,15W settings.
Durable | | Weaknesses: | Wished I did my homework about Ni-Cad Battery maintenance when I first got the Digital Pro-6. My battery is dead and there's no way I'm going to spend $110.00 each for both my and my fiancée's replacement batteries from niterider. We've had our light for approximately 3yrs. | | Similar Products Used: | Older Specializes 4 C Cell System. | | Bike Setup: | Older 99'(?) Scott full suspension mtn. bike with XTR and King headset. Decent ride, but wouldn't mind upgrading the frame. | | Bottom Line: | Has worked well when used, but not used that often. Good light distribution, at least for single track. Used for a handfull of occasional night rides and the Hi-Tech Challenge Adventure Race.
The light is great until it's time to replace the battery!
I've been searching to the ends of the internet for prior knowledge on how to replace this battery! I haven't had any luck.
I opened up the battery housing. It's just 5 D's in series and some insulation spray foam.
I have an Digital Pro-6 Charger...not the newer Brute that NiteRider has as the replacement. I need to find out the following:
1) Will my old charger be able to charge NiMH cells?
If not, I might invest in the Brute for a quicker charge and support for NiMH. My Pro-6 has 5 x 4.5Ah batteries.
2)If I do go with the Brute Charge and NiMH, will my Digital Pro-6 work ok with NiMH? I'll purchase 5 NiMH D's or Sub-C's as close to the same mAh as possible (currently 4500mAh)
If anyone has any tips, let me know. I'll post what I find out once tested. I haven't tried Niterider support, but I assume they'll stick to what their manual says and say x batteries are only compatible with x system and x charger...they're making money on replacement batteries. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Micki
a Weekend Warrior
from Seattle
Date Reviewed: November 1, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$149.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Well built light head, bulb lasts long, nice camlock mount, remote switch, gauge | | Weaknesses: | Connector broke, I had to solder it on | | Similar Products Used: | Cygolite Nite Rover
Jet Lites Starfire I Dual Beam
Niterider Digital Evolution | | Bike Setup: | Gary Fisher | | Bottom Line: | This light lasted almost 2 commuting years in Seattle rain. I expected it to last a little longer but maybe that's the average. The battery no longer holds a charge and the connector broke off inside the light housing. It's hard to reach but I have managed to solder it back. The light is fairly bright, but narrow. It's a good light for commuting when you need a little something more than a light just to be seen. The gauge showing how much light you have left is helpful and changing light levels is cool. I had a problem with the first charger, but Niterider sent me a new fast charger to replace it. The customer service then was good, but they did not respond to a query I sent them a month ago about the connector. It was out of warranty anyway. I believe it does a good job for what it is designed for, however, I think the connector thing was a poor design. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Justin
a Cross Country Rider
from San Jose, CA USA
Date Reviewed: May 5, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$189.00 | | Purchased At: | Calabazas Cyclery | | Strengths: | Light seems SOLID!, ease of setup, 5 hour charge time, fuel gauge. | | Weaknesses: | battery connector to the light, it came off after like 2 rides. It still works but just make sure you dont lose the piece. Basically part of the connector on the headlamp itself, comes off, if you pull straight out. placing the connector in, still no problems with the light | | Bike Setup: | Cannondale F600 custom | | Bottom Line: | This is for the Digital pro 6 with remote 2001 model. This light is very bright on 15 watts, but 1:45 hour run time, 6 hours on 3 watts(which is soo dim who would bother) I do like the fuel gauge, and the way it has a reserve so you can try to pedal home fast :o) Value is at 4 chilis, overall 3 chilis, if that connector wouldnt have broke soo fast maybe it would have gotten a better rating | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Todd
a Cross Country Rider
from Phx, AZ, US
Date Reviewed: March 11, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Dynamite | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$130.00 | | Strengths: | Weight, overall funtionality, helmet attachment | | Weaknesses: | none yet | | Bike Setup: | road, mountain | | Bottom Line: | This was a factory replacement for a 5 year old dual beam that finnaly gave up. They were great to work with, always available and supportive. I will probably upgrade to the HID in a year or 2. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Pasadena, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: November 20, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$180.00 | | Purchased At: | Local Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Fool-proof charger, compact light head, LED "fuel gauge" | | Weaknesses: | Variable power output useful primarily for climbing and/or extending burn time | | Similar Products Used: | Nightsun Team Issue, Niterider Classic | | Bottom Line: | This light has a fairly narrow spot beam which is good for seeing straight ahead but bad for seeing along the sides of the trail and/or road. The 10 and 6-watt settings are useful primarily for low, low speeds (e.g. climbing) and for saving battery life to get you home. Many people think the concept of having a "fuel gauge" is useless; I think it's a good idea because I no longer have to guess how much time I have before things go dark. My experience with the fuel gauge is that it's fairly accurate.
I would buy this light only if you don't ride at breakneck speed; otherwise, I would recommend going with a dual-beam setup or an HID system. When riding on the road, I've found that even having a 12/20-watt setup (such as Niterider's Classic) with both bulbs firing isn't sufficient when going over, say, 25 mph. Consequently, I've ordered Light & Motion's ARC (HID) light and will see how that system works out.
In sum, then, if you're serious about riding fast at night I would go with as much light as you can afford. Otherwise, the Digital Pro-6 will serve you just fine. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
john
a Racer
from bflo, ny, usa
Date Reviewed: November 15, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | alleghany state park | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$125.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | durable, light weight, waterproof, readily availible parts and accessories (the tail light is highly reccomended), manufacturer stands behind product, bright (motorists notice you and you can get up to speed at night), reasonable price, nicad batteries really last a long time with smart charger and digital headlamp (years). i haven't really used them much for trail riding, but they are perfect for year round, all weather niteriding in my medium sized city. | | Weaknesses: | on/off switch has broken three times over the years. niterider has fixed it promptly each time, tho' if you do alotta niteriding, you might consider buying an extra headlamp. | | Similar Products Used: | 2.5 watt vistalight with four AA batteries. | | Bike Setup: | several; road (ultegra 9speed), 'cross (ultegra 8speed), mtb (XT 8speed), bmx (ACS 1speed). | | Bottom Line: | one could definitely do alot worse. while there do seem to be alot more choices now compared to when i first got a decent bicycle light, i can definitely say that niterider (the product as well as the company) is something that can be counted on for the long haul.
if someone is just starting out, it might seem like alot to be spending $170US (including tail light) on a lighting system, but i would say that it's definitely a bargain if you want to ride fast and safe at night. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James
a Cross Country Rider
from Portland Oregon
Date Reviewed: May 30, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$180.00 | | Purchased At: | Fat Tire Farm | | Strengths: | Very bright, easy to use, well made. | | Weaknesses: | Pricey and the battery is heavy, but then all batteries are heavy and mountain biking is not a cheap sport... | | Similar Products Used: | cats eye | | Bike Setup: | kona hardtail, bombers, rhyno lites, avid, xt | | Bottom Line: | There are a lot of ~$30 lights out there but they are for being seen, not for seeing. This lite allows me to bike at high speed in the middle of the night which puts it in a whole other catergory. However, beware of animals when doing this. I have come damn close to plowing over small to medium sized critters on several occasions. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sky
a Cross Country Rider
from Seneca Falls NY USA
Date Reviewed: May 28, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Letchworth state park | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$180.00 | | Purchased At: | Geneva Bike Center | | Strengths: | Bright, Long run time (2 1/2 hours on 15 watt) useful power management system. Niterider got me a new battery in just over a week when i broke the connector.
plug and forget charger works good on this thing. | | Weaknesses: | heavy battery (over a pound, it does make the bike feel different) Weak connector. I broke the damn thing after 3-4 rides. | | Similar Products Used: | Niterider Digital Headtrip | | Bike Setup: | Gary Fisher Sugar 3 disc, raceface cranks, mostly stock otherwise. | | Bottom Line: | A decent light. that's not cool at all that the connector broke. I was mighty pissed. It'd get a five if that never happened. Light systems should be reliable above all. If the thing broke out in the woods that could be really bad. someone could get hurt or frozen or something.
to niterider's credit they replaced my battery (to which the connector is attached) in just over a week. if you have trouble go to your dealer. I sent my digital headtrip in for a recall and it took them well over a month to repair it.
On the plus side I love the thing when it's working. so buy it at your own risk. and always carry a backup. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Sacramento, CA
Date Reviewed: March 26, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Dark ones (look out for skunks though) | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$200.00 | | Purchased At: | Christmas present | | Strengths: | Long battery, has emergency features (SOS), pluyg and forget charger. | | Weaknesses: | Not a flood bob, will replace when I burn this one out. A pain and the butt to tun on and off (gotta hold for 3 seconds each) Quick relase is not that secure, if it gets tapped it can fall off. | | Similar Products Used: | Nightrider Classic | | Bike Setup: | Ventana, XT, Mach 5 | | Bottom Line: | Value: Is better than Classic and Night Owl at same price. But a bit more complicated than the Classic (cause it's digital) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross Country Rider
from Woodinville, WA
Date Reviewed: January 15, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$150.00 | | Purchased At: | Ebay | | Strengths: | Good clean bright beam. Durable. Waterproof. LED Battery Indicator a nice touch. Quick release handlebar clamp. MicroBrute charger makes getting out onto the trails faster. | | Weaknesses: | None so far. Maybe the price but I got a great deal on Ebay. | | Similar Products Used: | NiteRider Dual Classic | | Bike Setup: | Klein Attitude Comp, SID XC fork, XTR drivetrain, Chris King Headset, Syncros seatpost and Selle Italia Flite saddle. | | Bottom Line: | I have always regretted selling my NiteRider Dual Classic. When I saw a new NiteRider Digital Pro 6 Remote up for auction on Ebay I couldn't resist. I almost forgot how great these lights were. Even though I have the single beam model it is still plenty of light for me.
NiteRider did their homework and added some nice touches. The quick-release handlebar clamp was one of them. I hated having to put on the clamp that came with my previous NiteRider. This one goes on and comes off in a breeze but with plenty of adjustable clamping power.
Having the LED battery read-out is a plus. I now can better maintain my battery by actually knowing how much juice remains in my battery. And with the MicroBrute Charger recharging the battery takes half the time of what it used to take for my previous NiteRider Dual Classic.
I only use the 15 watt mode for riding. I haven't used the 10 or 6 watt option but I can see why they it's there. In the case one is running out of juice switching to 6 watts can buy you more light time until you get to your destination.
In conclusion, NiteRider makes the "King of Lights" no other company in my opinion comes close in quality and durability.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sean 'O'
a Weekend Warrior
from S.F., CA, U.S.A.
Date Reviewed: January 7, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$150.00 | | Purchased At: | bikeworld.com | | Strengths: | This light system is great! It takes bumps, dumps, and rain. Very dependable light. It recharges in 3 - 4 hours, I don't know why the manufacturer says it takes 12 + hours?? I highly recommend it, still strong after one year of (ab)use! The light offset system is strong and hasn't come loose, despite alot of reviews I have read stating this was a problem, and I have given it my fair share of pounding. | | Weaknesses: | None detected yet in over a year. | | Similar Products Used: | Battery operated junk. | | Bike Setup: | '99 Gary Fisher Big Sur | | Bottom Line: | This is a great, rugged, durable product at a very reasonable price. I bought it through the 'net, and have no regrets. This light works great at all 3 levels, and recharges fully and quickly in about 1/3 the time it is listed at. Take a few minutes to fine tune the mount clamp the first time you install the light set, don't over tighten the silver band, and you should have no problems down the line. If it slips, cut a piece of junk tube for the bar and you'll be fine. Enjoy ! ! ! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jonah
a Racer
from Tucson AZ
Date Reviewed: November 14, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Continental Divide Trail | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$199.00 | | Purchased At: | Local Bike Shop | | Strengths: | The light is easy to set up with a good remote feature | | Weaknesses: | Battery life, customer service, brightness compared to other
quality systems on the market | | Similar Products Used: | Light and Motion, NiteHawk | | Bike Setup: | Trek STP300 | | Bottom Line: | I bought this light hoping to purchase a quality system that was lightweight and bright. The Digital Pro-6 w/remote has a spot beam and really isn't very bright beyond that, even on 15 watt setting. But the biggest disappointment, however, is the burn time. The light claims 2.5 hours of burn on 15 watts, but I get around 1.75 hours. I thought Niterider boasted their great batteries and burn time. I actually sent the battery back to the company in San Diego. After about a week I called them to see if the battery should be repaired or replaced and I was put on hold for 30 minutes. When I finally got through to Warranty, they told me the battery will be looked at tommorow or something. They said they were backed up with repairs (ugh!!) and call them on Monday to hurry them up. Not a good sign. When I called on Monday they put me on hold three times for total of 50 minutes only to tell me that the battery was fine and they where sending it back. When I recieved the battery, I recharged it and clocked it at 1 hour and 48 minutes on High. To say the least, I am NEVER buying a Niterider again. I like my NiteHawk better. It's a tank of a light, but its bright and will burn forever. I recently bought a Light and Motion Dual system that is much more adjustable, waaay brighter, and burns up to their claim (and lighter). I would really recommend these systems. I think Niterider has just overgrown into a big, ugly company and they haven't kept up with the technology of the ever growing competition. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ToddW
a Cross Country Rider
from Washington, DC
Date Reviewed: September 20, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$179.00 | | Purchased At: | Bikeworld | | Strengths: | Good illumination w/tight beam; multiple settings; nice quick-release handlebar mount; easy to install and use. | | Weaknesses: | Bulky battery; no spare bulb included (at least that I could find) | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | '97 Specialized Stumpjumper Pro; Judy XC fork w/Englund Air cartridges/ 517 rims-DT Rev spokes - King hubs / Avid SD 25 brakes/ Gore cables/ WTB saddle / RaceFace bottom bracket | | Bottom Line: | All I can give at this point is my initial impression after 1 week of use: good illumination, ease of use and reasonable price make this a solid lighting package. I've used it both on and off-road with good results. One negative so far. On the two lowest settings the light interferes with my cycling computer ('97 Specialized Speedzone wireless) making it useless. I think one of the reviews below made this observation as well! Not too big of a deal since I don't really use my computer a night anyway but I do like to know my total mileage at the end of a ride. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andy
a Weekend Warrior
from New Brunswick, NJ
Date Reviewed: May 10, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Easy re-charging. Put the battery on the charger after a ride and forget about it. | | Weaknesses: | A little pricey. I have the one with a remote switch which is even more expensive.
The remote version was all they had at the store when I bought. For riding where you are constantly adjusting the light level depending to obtain the longest possible burn time this might be convenient. However, I turn my light on when I start and off when I finish; reaching for the switch is not really an issue. | | Bike Setup: | Cannondale road bike. | | Bottom Line: | At 15 watts it provides just enough light for my road riding, dark country roads with few or no street lights. If I had to do it again I would probably fork over the extra cash for the 30 watt digital pro. Sometimes when riding fast on dark roads I find it hard to see small obstacles such as ice, sharp rocks or metal. Potholes and glass usually show up well. The light is certainly bright enough to be seen by cars. The best part of this light is the charging system. I would fry my battery with a regular charger that required me to unplug the battery after it was finished charging. Who has time to remember such things? | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sean
a Weekend Warrior
from San Francisco, Ca. USA
Date Reviewed: January 23, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Quality, technology (RISC), brightness, ease of installation | | Weaknesses: | Long recharge time | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized 'AA' battery gizmo | | Bike Setup: | Gary Fisher Big Sur | | Bottom Line: | Very easy to install, quick detachable mount, mount offsets to center it, very bright at 15 watts, two other brightness settings save battery when climbing, and with optional head band can be mounted on helmet without noticeable weight. Bottle carrier battery with Velcro strap holds well even on tough ruts. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Hymie
a Weekend Warrior
from So Cal
Date Reviewed: January 9, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: |
all | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
3 light levels, automatically goes to reserve mode (6 watts) when running out of juice, nice charger, not to heavy, durable, battery fits in my camelback, nice helmet mount | | Weaknesses: |
None so far | | Similar Products Used: |
12 vold car light strapped to my dome | | Bike Setup: |
hard tail with z2 up front | | Bottom Line: | got mine on sale bout a year ago at superblow for $149, great light, get one. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Spud
a Weekend Warrior
from San Ramon, CA
Date Reviewed: December 23, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Anything paved... | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Bright, battery life (roughly 75 minutes at 15 watts), quality | | Weaknesses: |
It wasn't cheap: $165 from Bikeworld.com | | Similar Products Used: |
None | | Bike Setup: |
Bianchi Veloce | | Bottom Line: | I use this on my evening training rides along a couple of seriously busy roads. People can see me, and I can see the debris in the road. Tough to ask for more... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
berrywise
a Cross-Country Rider
from Stillwater,Mn
Date Reviewed: December 19, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Holzinger Lodge | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Light is strong enough to be used by itself, unit has held up after quite a few night time crashes. Battery still gets very good run times. | | Weaknesses: |
Handlebar clamp is poorly designed. | | Similar Products Used: |
Specialized Proview, Vista Light, Schwinn Mod | | Bike Setup: |
Schwinn Homegrown | | Bottom Line: | I won this light about a year ago and I have been very impressed with it. I started out using it on my bar but later bought a helmet mount. The bar mount is very poorly done. Most light systems offer a quick release clamp so you can take the clamp on and off your bike. Niterider uses a small screw and nut which can be easily lost and is time consuming to remove.Prices for aftermarket pieces are kind of pricey as well. The longer cable (really helpfull for helmet mount) is around 30 dollars. I have yet to buy it so it is kind of stressfull on the short cable when I run it on my helmet.I have found it works great on the helmet with another light (flood type) on the bar. Makes for a great combo.I point out some of the negatives but the positives really do out number the negatives.bw | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Frank
a Cross-Country Rider
from San Diego
Date Reviewed: December 6, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Noble Canyon | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Plenty of light for 90% of terrain
Variable light output stretches battery power
Smart charging | | Weaknesses: |
Smart charging | | Similar Products Used: |
None | | Bike Setup: |
S-works FSR | | Bottom Line: | I can't imagine the need for more than the 15 watts this light puts out on high. This combined with a Headtrip would be the perfect setup. The smart charge is only a timer, so if your battery is 90% full and you just want to top it off, it will try to charge it as if it's completely empty. Also, the people at Nightrider are great! I took a good spill one night and ripped the rubber grommet off the power button. I stopped by to see if I could buy a replacement (I figured it would cost at least $10 - you know how replacement parts can be), and they gave it to me for free! Not only that, they replaced it for me while I waited, all free! You just don't get customer service like that often enough in any industry. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ron
a Weekend Warrior
from Woodbridge, California
Date Reviewed: July 28, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Brightness
Light itself appears strong
options to brightness | | Weaknesses: |
The clamp...Looks ready to break on me | | Bottom Line: | Great light.......Bright.........cars really notice you......easy to charge.....get the digital model.......My only concern is the clamp | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
singapore slim
a racer
from singapore
Date Reviewed: January 28, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
The digital 6 is a great lighting system BUT has anybody else discovered you can't use it with some wireless computers? My Cateye wireless 2 computer gets a 0 mph/kmph reading and the timer, ave speed, EVERYTHING gets locked up when the digital 6 is used in any setting EXCEPT 15w full power.It seems the digital processor in the light's head is interfering with the signal the wireless computer receiver gets from the transmitter.
My only solution - keep the lights, get a fully wired computer and hope the signals this light is giving out doesn't affect commercial airline traffic navigation systems.Has anybody overcome this small but signifant shortfall? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael a commuter and tourer
a weekend warrior
from Sydney Australia
Date Reviewed: December 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I got by on the glorified flashlights for years but got tired of them. Read all the reviews and finally ordered a Digital pro 6 from the US.. They are prohibitively expensive here. It made my night time ride home much safer. The cars really notice me now and I have much better field of vision than I was used to. For city riding the 6w setting works quite well on the side roads and the 15w is good for the busier roads. The mount is a bit dodgy but not a real problem on tarmac. On the plus side it uses very little bar space. A problem with a riser bar with a stiffening beam. I like that the lite is so compact and also that it feels solid and well constructed. The fuel guage is useful and the company website has some good information too. I learnt a lot about batteries from reading it. I liked the lite so much I eventually bought a second one for my back up bike and a pair of the rear red flashers too. This also allows me to keep a charger at home and another at work. Being visible is a very important factor commuting here in Sydney and the front rear configuration really helps.One minor improvemnt I would suggest is a rubber cap for the battery socket similar to the one on the light. I once got the battery wet when it was not connected to the light and it discharged completely. It never gets cold enough here to have battery hassles. I would definetly buy this product again. Indeed I have. 5 Stars | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Connies Linguist
a cross-country rider
from
Date Reviewed: July 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Kick-ass light! It made my riding buddy with dual beam Cygo-Lite very jealous. His battery was dead an hour into the ride and mine still had an hour and a half left on full power. All the little toys like the strobe and S.O.S. features are fun, too (although I hope I never actually need the S.O.S). Buy this light over the regular NiteRider 6 only for the S.O.S. feature though. The light on the charger is just a trick. It doesn't electronically monitor the battery's power level--it just starts flashing green after 14 hours. Anybody with a regular 6 can start a timer when they plug in their battery charger and just disconnect it after 14 hours and get the same result. When I bought my digital 6 the box contained a regular NiteRider 6 charger and not the digital one with the little LED light. I raised a big stink at the bikeshop about it until they replaced it with the digital one. I wouldn't have had to, though, because it's really no big deal. The battery guage on the lite itself is useful to an extent, but I usually just ride for 2.5 hours at a time at night anyway, and since this is the amount of time that the full power lasts, I wouldn't need it. The battery guage on the light is useless to me anyway because I use the light on my helmet (it makes a killer headlamp and fixes problems that other reviewers have mentioned with the mount and not being able to see around corners). Make sure and buy the extender cord if you plan on putting the light on your head. Even in a camelbak, the battery cord won't reach the light on a helmet without the extender. Overall, I can't imagine how a light could be better than the Digital Pro 6. I don't think it needs to be any brighter than it is on the full 15 watt setting, so save your money if you're thinking about a Cateye Stadium Light. The only thing I COULD rip on is the handlebar mount (my light would tilt downwards spontaneously after hitting bumps because the handlebar mount doesn't really work), but since I use it as a kick-ass headlamp, I don't have any beefs with this light at all. 5 mondo chilies (why the hell does everyone say chilies, anyway?) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a weekend warrior
from Pasadena, California
Date Reviewed: June 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I like the fact that the digital pro-6 can be plugged in and forgotten about until the next ride, but I definitely regret not spending the extra $ for the dual beam system because I can't see at all around corners, at least compared to my friends who have the dual beams. And the plastic mount SUCKS! I've already replaced the mount on the light casing twice because it won't hold the light in position (yes, I know how it works), and a number of my friends hav had the same problem. Why make a good light with advanced electronics, etc. and then manufacture a crappy mount? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
keith
a racer
from Los Gatos, CA
Date Reviewed: March 31, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've been using this light for the last 3 months solid, at least twice per
week. It is fabulous. Very well made, and great light intensity. The 15
watt setting is great for going down, and 6 or 9 watt for climbing are
perfect. The light adjustment could have a little finer granularity, that
is how high the beam points. The plug and forget charger is excellent, never
have to worry about it. The fuel gauge is super for keeping track of how much
battery is left. I love this light. Combine it with a helmet mount and you
could ride anything. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tan KAh THye
a weekend warrior
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: March 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Kind of bright....I mean the 15 and 10 watt settings...The lowest(6w??) is kind
of erm...useless. In fact, I find myself using the 15 watt setting the most
often.
Now I've sort of become the lighting technical guy in my group of mtb
bikers....
Unless you're really going fast downhill at night, I think this will serve
you well.However, I find the handlebar mount not so good. The angle adjustments of the light is not fine enuff....So you have to sort of like experiment the position of the mount and the light b4 you set off.Not really a major problem....Irks me off...but I'll give it 5 chillies
anyway. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a cross-country rider
from Oklahoma
Date Reviewed: February 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The best part about the Digital Pro-6 is that I plug the battery into the charger when I'm finished, and I don't have to think about it until I'm ready to go again. Have used it on tight single track on leisure rides and lots of gravel roads to light my way when spinning --- plenty of light for both. I like the bar mount and the ease of adjustment on the lamp tilt. It has opened up a whole new window of riding for me!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg Taylor
a cross-country rider
from Alexandria, VA
Date Reviewed: February 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is a quality piece of equipment. The components have a good, solid heft to them, and the handlebar mount is strong and easy to use. Light-wise, it does all that I ask. The lowest setting is useless to actually see by (I suspect that it is designed as a marker lite for road use at dawn or dusk, so that cars can see you on a spin home to or from the trail-head). The 10 watt and 15 watt settlings provide more than enough light for most sane riders. As with any single-lamp system, the beam width is a compromise, and I find the beam on the Digi-pro 6 to be a bit narrow when mounted on the bar. I've bought a helmet mount (and extension cord), which fixes my particular gripe. For the money that they charge for this system, I was a little put off by the fact that I had to spend additional $$$ to buy a helmet mount and extension cord...The charging system is great, and the gas gauge is a very handy feature.In short, this is probably the best single-lamp system out there. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JRM
a weekend warrior
from Illinois
Date Reviewed: February 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Excellent light. Expensive for a single beam but the quality is apparent. What I like : Plug and forget charging is very convenient. !5 watt setting provides ample lighting. Led display power meter so I know how much time Ive got. 3 light levels to conserve run time and match light level to trail demands. Water bottle battery with Velcro security strap. What I dont like. THE MOUNT. Although Im sure its durable its too big to leave on the bike and requires a screwdriver to take it off. On my bike its a bit awkward to reach the screw and ive already messed up the head a bit. Well I could complain about the mount for some time but Ill just give it the 5 stars it deserves and be done with it. I just bought a Night Sun Sport at Performance for $69 to go with it. Ill post on that lil helmet mount after I use it a few times. But with the Niterider on the bar and the Sun Sport on my head I anticipate having one dang nice system. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a racer
from MI
Date Reviewed: January 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The Digi pro6 is an amazing system and I do believe you finally get what you pay for. Previous light systems have been nothing more than really powerful flashlights using a hard wired switch. The misc processer in this unit is quite helpful in timing your ride. I will say that much of my riding is done in either the 6 or 10 watt mode and I have pleanty of light to illuminate the tight wooded trails of michigan. Gripes I have noticed some inconsistant battery life on rides when the temp drops below 40 F also I would like to see a slightly wider beam or lense options, the stock is a little too focused. The concentration of light doesn't allow a smooth transition from light to dark areas so your eyes cannot compensate quickly enough to see outside the beam. Consequently this light works much better when mounted to a helmet | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
david sidote
a weekend warrior
from New Brunswick, NJ
Date Reviewed: December 30, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I researched all the lights I could find and this one go the best reviews. The price was a bit steep but the features are worth the price. The lowest light setting is worthless as it is only good for being seen and does not offer enought light to actually see. The other beams and the flashing setting are excellent. The only light I think is better is the digital pro 12 but at $300+ it is more than I would want to spend on a light system. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a weekend warrior
from Taipei, Taiwan
Date Reviewed: December 9, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Great lamp. Nice and bright. Cars slow down because they don't know what the slow cyclops ahead is. Good mount. Good connections. Too bad no dealers in Taiwan. I had to get it shipped from the USA.If you use a head mount, get the extension cable from NiteRider. The standard cable would likely be too short to use. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Robert Dodson
a cross-country rider
from Fairfield, CT
Date Reviewed: December 5, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Very excellent light. Get it now.
The top(15 wt) brightness is great. The lower levels are fine as well
much of the time. I usually ride with middle 10 watt level off and on road.
The product is well designed, sturdy, and easy to use. If you can't or won't afford the pro 12, this light is all you need for most situations except maybe racing. (Be smart, get a rear LED flasher also!)
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark Bell
a racer
from Billerica. MA USA
Date Reviewed: December 5, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I liked my Dig-Pro 6 to start, but found that the lower setting
was pretty useless. I also don't like the fact that it sits
on the top of my handlebars, using up that space. I'd much
prefer it be under the bar mount.Overall, it's an ok light, I'm thinking of trading it in on a
dual beam model, The electronics which chop the circuit are
useless on the low setting, for me anyway. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ken
a racer
from Portland, OR
Date Reviewed: December 2, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Actually I have the Pro-12, and love it! Working in the bike industry makes me a hard critic, and this product delivers. I can't wait because I'm going on the killer DH Friday night! Yes the extra light power is worth the investment!!!!!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bear-Man
a cross-country rider
from Big Bear, CA
Date Reviewed: November 21, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Fantastic product. I read a lot of reviews and searched this site before buying
my Digital Pro 6, appreciate the very helpful insight of present users. I have 15
watts to get through the night, which is all I could ask for. I do 70% road/30% trail
and the light really does deliver on it's promise of bright light, I depend on it to get
me home from work, sometimes in the dead of night, (under 20 mph). Truth be
known, I initially purchased their Trail Rat light (10 watts) and was quite satisfied
with the output. I just thought the fuel gauge feature of the Digital Pro 6 would be
better suited for me since my bike is a replacement for my car, and I wanted the extra
time (3.5 hrs@10 watts, 2.5 hrs@15 watts, 4.5 hrs@6 watts). I suspect 80% of cyclists
in my situation would be very happy with this light. However, if you're the 20% bent on
tearing down the unknown on a moonless night, then go for the Digital Pro 12, say your
prayers and don't let your life insurance premiums laspe. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bernard
a cross-country rider
from Santa Monica
Date Reviewed: November 17, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Great product all around in function, charge set-up, useable battery time, and overall lighting. Those who may need more light from dual beams are going waaay too fast at night and will be laid up soon anyway. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
George
a cross-country rider
from Branford,CT
Date Reviewed: November 11, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Just got this light 6 weeks ago and Im glad I waited for the upgraded digital circuitry for the single light. I have ridden it in the woods on trails I know pretty well and affixed it to the handlebars which works fine. I also tried riding with the optional helmet mount I also got but the cord supplied isnt really long enough to reach the helmet from a back pack withou tugging on the light and making it mildly obnoxious to ride this way. Therefore I suggest you purcase the optional ext.cord itf you plan on using the helmet mount. Otherwise the features provided on this light are terrific esp the fuel gauge which tells you how much juice you have left before you are in the dark--there is also an emmergency 10 min supply when you reach empty. The brightness level is superior and I cant imagine needing more than 15watts unless your flying. The rest of the package is well thought out and the improvements they made to this light seem to solve most of the problems that people had with the other inferior brands .
Again thank you to all the MTBR reviewers for helping make the decision to choose nightrider that much easier. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ben
a weekend warrior
from Newton, MA
Date Reviewed: November 9, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I just bought it a couple of weeks ago and love it very much. It performs up to what Niterider promises and their customer support is excellent. The 98' power connector design is certainly an improvement over the previous model. It is THE perfect light for a variety of usage. Get it !! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a racer
from Castle Rock, Colorado
Date Reviewed: November 9, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've reviewed several other products and this is my first five flamer! I've been using the Digital Pro 6
for several months now as a headlamp. I've read here in these reviews that the battery-to-lighthead
connector is weak but the one on this model looks bombproof. Maybe its a new design for '98.
Can't really go full speed with 15 watts, maybe Santa will bring the Digital Pro 12! That'll make a
total of 47 Watts! Have also used the light for some night running and plan to use it on some night
snowshoeing and skiing. I'll bet you're jealous.Ride ON! | | Overall Rating: |
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