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NiteRider
Digital Pro 12-LCD
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Average Rating
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2.72/5
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# of Reviews
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32
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MSRP
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$ 389.00
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Weight
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More Products from NiteRider
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Description:32/20/12w Dual Beam System with 4.5Ah NiMH Smart Battery
The DP-12LCD is NiteRider's most technologically advanced lighting system. This system includes a 6th generation 8 bit microprocessor, backlit LCD display, smart battery technology and new Micro-Brute race charger allowing rapid battery charging. The LCD display shows remaining burn time or percent remaining, light output level and battery level. Time remaining is constantly updated providing greater accuracy.
Features
NEW Soft Green Backlit LCD control panel displays light output level, remaining burn time and battery level
NEW Two button remote for safe, simple and convenient adjustment of light level
New SurLok Connectors
MicroBrute™ 5hr charger with In-Vehicle charging optional
NEW 4.5Ah Nickel-Metal Hydride Rechargeable water bottle Smart Battery
6 light levels: 6/9/12/20/32 watts and Walking mode
10 step Fuel Gauge w/low battery warning and up to 15 minutes Reserve at 6 watts
CamLok™ QR handlebar mount
Over-discharge protection greatly increases battery life
Bulb SoftStart prolongs bulb life
Blown-Bulb sensing automatically switches to good bulb
Commuter Safety Flasher, SOS beacon plus walking mode
System weight: 40oz. (Mount, Light head & Battery)
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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.
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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.
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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: | |
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