Reelight SL-120 UK Model - CTC review DEC-JAN 2007-2008

Reviewed by Technical Editor Chris Juden

Reelights >> £38

It sounds unlikely, but these flashing lamps get their power from tiny currents induced by passing magnets fixed to the spokes. Flashing lights are legal now. But if you want to use one as anything other than a subsidiary light it must emit at least 4 candela (4000rrcd) mid flash and, crucially, not have any means of emitting a steady light.

These Reelights fit the bill, and now there’s a version for the UK market that mounts on the right, with magnets set behind the spokes to keep the rear sets from grabbing the chain - a problem with early right-mounted prototypes. I tried the SL 120-UK model on a light tourer with a triple chainset and had no problems with Chain derailment during normal riding, even in bottom gear. Fitting and adjusting the new design was much easier than the originals - a set of which I’ve had on my commuter bike for a year. The all-stainless metalwork looks smarter too. Performance is also improved, with a constant 2Hz flash rate that continues after coming to a halt for over two minutes. They certainly look bright enough and according to specification (29cd front, lOcd rear) emit ample light for UK approval.

Powering the lights is effortless - almost. There has to some resistance as these are generator lamps. Reelight’s engineers admit that it takes an extra 0.12W to turn the wheels at 2Okph. That’s like riding up a hill that rises 1.5 inches per mile. I think we can accept that’s as near as makes no difference ‘friction free’, and be grateful for permanently fitted, theft resistant, unforgettable lights that will always come on and stay on! Here at last is a set of simple flashing lights that take care of your legal obligations, leaving you free to fit whatever ‘additional’ lights you need - which, under streetlights, might be none.

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