How do I determine the right battery life for my bike light based on my ride time?

[jensK]

Ah, manufacturers' claims, as reliable as a unicycle on ice . Quite right, varying terrains, weather, and pace can indeed affect bike light battery life. A formula considering average speed, lumens, and claimed efficiency might help, but don't forget about the importance of personal testing. After all, reality can sometimes be as elusive as a unicycle on a tightrope. #BikeLightRealityCheck

 

[Dave K]

Manufacturers' claims can feel like a marketing mirage, right? So, how do we sift through the noise to find a bike light that won’t leave us stranded in the dark? When considering battery life, should we take a more granular approach—like analyzing specific ride conditions over time rather than just average durations?

What if we mapped out our rides, noting terrain and weather, to create a personalized formula for our battery needs? And about those lumens per watt, do they vary significantly across brands, or are we just seeing the same old tricks dressed up differently?

Also, how do we assess the durability of rechargeable batteries in real-world conditions? Is there a threshold for when they start losing their mojo? What’s the community’s take on brands that genuinely deliver on their battery life promises? Let’s dig deeper into these nitty-gritty details! ‍