I’ve owned a lot of small usb rechargeable lights but the Cygolite Hotrod beats all of them. I have had these for almost two years now. They are still going strong.
1. Brightness. Both front and rear have sufficient brightness and a variety of light modes. The light mode I find myself using a lot is the low flash. It says low flash, but my no means is it “low”. During sunset to the darkest of nights, this low flash setting is unbelievably bright. To add, this setting goes for 32 hours before a recharge is needed. I had a pair of Serfas Tridents, and those went on for around 8 hours before needing a charge (on the low flash). If the road is really dark, the hotrod at it’s highest brightness (High Steady) does a decent job. I can see around 5 feet ahead of me, luckily I also have another light on for these scenarios. The Cyolite Hotrod is for sure a “to be seen” light, not so much of a “to see the road” type of light, if you guys get what I mean.
2. Form factor. The light itself is really small. Around 8cm long. Despite this, like I said, the battery life is exponential. The straps are also very convenient for whatever seatpost you have. I have the Specialized Venge post and the straps work just fine. I had another bike with a 27.2 seatpost, the straps also did just fine then too. The straps have been in use daily for almost 2 years with no sign of wear. The light itself is of robust quality too. I dropped it countless times, and the plastic cover on the rear light covering the LED did crack. But honestly, it spreads the light sideways now sooooo haha. Kidding, but it still works like a charm. No water has seeped in either.
3. Price? A lot of people may argue that spending almost 60 dollars for a pair of lights isn’t worth it. I’d have to argue against that. A light is for you to be seen at night. I’d rather spend good money on a QUALITY bike light and be safe. Rather than, spend my money on a cheapo light and risk it all. I convinced a lot of fellow friends to buy this light and all of them will tell you the same thing “it was worth it”.
Conclusion?
Buy this. If you’re in the market for a new small light, this will suit your needs. Not only is it bright, the light is tough, long lasting, and small. I hope this review helped any of you. Thank you!
The advertised weight is accurate btw.
(4 years later)
The lights are still working, bright, and used daily. These lights have been through a lot. Countless charge cycles, yet it still hasn't failed. The battery life is still great.
| Color | Black , Red |
|---|---|
| Brand | Cygolite |
| Material | Plastic |
| Power Source | USB |
| Water Resistance Level | Water Resistant |
| Item Weight | 0.18 Pounds |
| Mounting Type | Seat Mount |
| Number of settings | 6 |
| Brightness | 50 Lumen |
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
| International Protection Rating | IP64 |
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 5.63 x 3.23 x 1.89 inches |
| Package Weight | 0.08 Kilograms |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 1 x 1 x 3.5 inches |
| Brand Name | Cygolite |
| Warranty Description | One Year Limited Warranty |
| Model Name | Cygolite Hotrod |
| Suggested Users | unisex |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Manufacturer | Cygolite |
| Part Number | Hotrod 50 |
| Model Year | 2018 |
| Style | 50 Lumens |
| Included Components | Hotrod 50 tail light^Micro USB charging cable^Versatite flexible mount |
| Outer Material | aluminum |
| Size | Compact |
| Sport Type | Cycling |
