Peter Maniaty
Daytime running lights and top quality night lights are critical for all riders – here Pete Maniaty tests out two from Raveman.
Raveman PR2000 front light
Every cyclist needs a high quality front light. Whereas some models can feel a little like toys, the Raveman PR2000 is the exact opposite. With a heavy duty aluminium body, Mil Type III Hard Coat Anodising and a maximum IPX8 waterproof rating, it’s a robust unit that will stand the test of time, albeit not especially light at 214 grams. Powered by a USB-C rechargeable 6,000 mAh/3, 7V Li-ion battery, the dual white LED design (something Raveman calls a HiLo Beam System) can put out an impressive 2000 lumens, offering up to 170 metres of visibility in the highest setting.
The unit mounts via a simple screw-fixed bracket suitable for 31.8 mm and 35 mm round handlebars, and also comes with a wireless remote control for easy adjustments, mid-ride. There are multiple light settings including an anti-glare low beam option, as well as an LED real-time display showing the run time remaining at each brightness level. Set to the full 2000 lumens the maximum run time is a touch over 60 minutes. Drop it back to 500 lumens in flashing mode, however, and you can get closer to 19 hours.
Raveman FR300 daytime running light
It’s been two years since we tested the original Raveman FR160 daytime running light. Now along comes its impressive sibling, the FR300. Roughly the same size as a Garmin 540 head unit, it’s a little bigger and heavier (75 grams) than its predecessor. But it’s also significantly brighter with a new COB LED putting out 300 lumens. The 1,200 mAh/3 7V Li-polymer battery is easily rechargeable via the USB-C included and provides a maximum run time of 24 hours (100 lumens, slow flash mode) or nine hours when set for the full 300 lumens.
Interestingly, you can also use FR300 as an impromptu powerbank to charge your bike computer itself. Both Garmin and Wahoo compatible, the sleek low profile design of the FR300 twists directly into your existing head unit mount. Your head unit then screws directly into it. Like the FR160, it isn’t a directional front light, meaning it’s not really suitable for night riding, however, with multiple fixed and flashing settings it’s ideal for adding extra visibility to daytime riding and commuting. It also boasts an IPX6 rating so it can handle pretty much anything Mother Nature throws at you, other than full underwater immersion.
