Category Archives: Lighting

Fake Metal vs. Honest Plastic

Posted on February 28, 2013 by

Few taillights available today complement the aesthetics of a classic randonneur bike, where you want to see finely detailed components, typically in metal. Most modern lights are chunky black plastic, but one succeeds in being more understated: Busch & Müller’s … Continue reading →

Posted in Lighting | 50 Comments

Overview of SON Generator Hubs

Posted on December 13, 2012 by

When “Schmidt’s Originaler Nabendynamo” (SON) was introduced more than a decade ago, the choice was easy: There was only one model. Today, Schmidt offers three models of their revolutionary generator hubs. Here is what distinguishes them: SON Delux: Weight: 386 … Continue reading →

Posted in Lighting | 18 Comments

New Products: Stainless Crowns and Connector-Less Wide-Body Hubs

Posted on June 24, 2012 by

We are excited about a number of new products that are now available. They have been in development for a while, and we think they were worth the wait! We really like the SON Delux “Wide-Body” generator hubs. The wider … Continue reading →

Posted in Components, Framebuilding supplies, Lighting, Product News | 3 Comments

Racks and Bags

Posted on April 23, 2012 by

The Grand Bois M-13 racks now come in two versions: One for bikes with narrow clearances (usually for 700C tires) and one for bikes with wider clearances. With this choice of two racks, it becomes much easier to fit your … Continue reading →

Posted in Lighting, Product News, Racks/Bags | Tagged , , , | 17 Comments

Wiring a Light for a SON Generator Hub

Posted on March 26, 2012 by

Before I explain how to connect your light to a SON generator hub, I’d like to summarize the advantages of quality generator-powered lights. They simply allow you to ride more safely and enjoyably: Light when you need it, at the … Continue reading →

Posted in Lighting | 28 Comments

Waterproof Edelux lights?

Posted on February 10, 2012 by

Few bicycle headlights are actually waterproof. The Planet Bike headlight in our test wicked water past the headlight lens, and the standlight function stopped working. Busch & Müller’s lights are open at the bottom, so moisture can drain out. This … Continue reading →

Posted in Lighting, Testing and Tech | 11 Comments

Edelux Headlights for Hanging Attachments

Posted on January 9, 2012 by

Edelux headlights for a hanging attachment are now available. The hanging  attachment allows mounting them more securely underneath a front rack. Most German bikes mount their lights above the fork crown (below). That is how most headlights are designed, including … Continue reading →

Posted in Lighting, Product News | 31 Comments

Wide-Body SON Delux Generator Hub

Posted on December 30, 2011 by

I am excited about the new Wide-Body SON Delux generator hub. It allows you to enjoy a super-strong wheel, yet roll along with the less resistance than other generator hubs. It is available now in limited quantities with 32 or … Continue reading →

Posted in Lighting, Product News | 24 Comments

New LED Taillight Solutions

Posted on December 9, 2011 by

Taillights can be very elegant and beautiful. Some are shaped like raindrops, others emerge from the fender like a submarine parting the waves. There are minimalist taillights like the beautiful JOS lights that René Herse mounted on the seat tubes … Continue reading →

Posted in Lighting, Product News | 29 Comments

SON Generator Hubs and Lights

Posted on November 3, 2011 by

Compass Bicycles has added SON generator hubs and Edelux lights to our program. We are excited to carry the best bicycle lighting systems ever made. A few years ago, a reporter asked me what I considered the most important innovation … Continue reading →

Posted in Lighting, Product News | 37 Comments