Moon Ring Front Light

The Moon Ring is a small but surprisingly powerful safety front light with a choice of six settings. Its modest run times in the highest modes might prove a deal-breaker for some, though.

Despite measuring just 44 x 31.2 x 16.5cm, it's bristling with no fewer than 15 diodes. Aptly named, ring also refers to the cutting edge COB (Chips on Board) technology, which enables more diodes to share the same space without getting too hot. Its CNC machined aluminium casing is also designed to perform heat sink duties, so internals stand a sporting chance of living long and productive lives.

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Since we're on the subject, it is weather-resistant to IPX4 standard, which is another way of saying splash proof, given that only a silicone plug separates Mother Nature and delicate circuitry. I've spared it my garden hose torture test but am pleased to report that ours sniggered at persistent November rain and the occasional drenching from passing lorries.

Despite my initial scepticism, the mounting bracket is both convenient and extremely secure. Oversized diameters are the norm but, thoughtfully, Moon also includes a smaller silicone strap, so swapping between the fleet is no hardship.

The centre-mounted switch is positive, a cinch to locate even in the dead of night wearing winter duvet type gloves, but it requires a two-second press before powering up and toggling through to the desired mode. That means accidental power-ups while orbiting pockets, wedge packs or panniers aren't impossible but are highly unlikely.

Once engaged, diodes and lens project a really pure white arc of light. Overdrive has limited navigational clout but it's okay for urban/suburban contexts to around 15mph and visible to 180m – further on clear nights. High and standard are comparatively mute, but okay for pootling back from the off licence and/or conserving power.

Flashing modes are by far the most extrovert – we're talking being visible from 550-600m along unlit lanes on clear nights and at least 350m in built-up areas. The 20 per cent flash has been my go-to default for overcast days, or accompanying my Univega's 800-lumen hub dynamo setup on longer nocturnal rides.

Pulsing is distinctive enough to make other road users sit up and take notice at 400m, while peripheral bleed maintains a presence when you're turning or joining the flow of traffic. SOS equates to 12 lumens and will chirp away for 7hrs 24mins, which could prove a lifesaver in the event of an emergency.

>> Check out our guide to the best front lights here

Charge times are relatively swift by USB standards – 2hrs from the mains, 2hrs 30mins when drip fed from laptops, PCs and similar third party interfaces. Fully fuelled, the amber light will stop winking and a cut-off prevents potential damage caused by overcharging.

Real world run times are faithful to those quoted – I've managed a consistent 1hr 27mins (1hr 30mins) in overdrive, 2hrs 38mins (2hrs 45mins) high and 5hrs 29mins (5hrs 35mins) in standard.

As a contingency light for time trial or pared-to-the-essentials best bikes, it's definitely worth a closer look, but there are better options for night owls wanting a companion to their main system.

Verdict

Bright and relatively quick charging safety light for contingencies or as a companion to main lights