Best quality/durability in a set of front and rear lights?
 

Hi guys. I want to get a set of lights for the front and rear ( and sides? ) , but I also am the type of person that likes to buy something once. So I'm looking for the best quality, build wise and value for the dollar, in a set of lights. I know there is a lot of options out there, and I'm sure that a majority of it is probably cheaply made imported rubbish.

So what do you guys recommend? I'm going to be outfitting a road bike, so got that to consider. Typical suburban roads, so occasional street lights but also some stretches of dark road, so I'd like to be visible and have good forward visibility.

I'd like something lightweight but durable. Can somebody share some personal experiences and specific models? Links to purchase would be extra cool. Thanks!

Without knowing your budget it's difficult to give you a recommendation. That being said, I always recommend Dinotte lights as the most "bang for the buck" purchase. Their standard 140L taillight is ridiculously bright, and the 200L headlight is good enough for your situation. The AA battery versions of the lights are $119 each, and I believe you can get the price lower if you delete the battery and charger from the order.

http://www.dinottelighting.com

Ah, yea I realized I forgot to mention budget.

I would say I'm looking to outfit the bike for under $100 for everything.

Something like an EagleTac P100 A2.

Something like a Radbot 1000.

Some Eneloop AA's, triple-A's and a charger.

Total = $101.14. Sorry about the overage.

With a little careful shopping you should be able to find a Planet Bike Blaze 2W front and Superflash rear lights for around $60.
Rechargable batteries + charger will still come in under you budget.
They are great basic commuter lights. The headlight has a flashing mode for daytime, and the quick-release brackets make it very easy to take the lights with you when you lock up.

http://www.rei.com/product/797836/pl...ont-bike-light
http://www.rei.com/product/772679/pl...ear-bike-light
(wait for a 20% off sale at REI... )

http://www.amazon.com/Planet-Bike-Bl.../dp/B0015R1NE4
(Amazon prices change constantly. I got my 2W Blaze for $39.00)

The 2W Blaze is probably OK, as is the Cree flashlight (EagleTac) option. Don't forget to include a twofish mount (e.g. ) for the flashlight if you go that route. Although the Planet Bike Superflash used to be the best low priced tail light I believe that the PDW Radbot 1000 is superior. It seems to be brighter, but to me that is less important than its other qualities. The Radbot switch is easier to operate and more reliable. Most importantly, the Radbot does not share the Superflash' tendency to fly apart when subjected to sudden shocks, like potholes.