I was recently given the opportunity to give the Topeak Moonshine HID bike headlight a test run. My initial impression was that it was incredibly bright for a bike headlight. When I stood out and looked into the light it was honestly so bright it makes you feel like a deer in the headlights of a truck.

The Moonshine HID light can be run for 2 hours at 10w, and 2.3 hours at 7w. The 7w setting is plenty bright for most scenarios.

Here are some more detailed features:

• Lamp – 110W Welch Allyn HID
• Battery – 14.4V 2200 mAh Lighium Ion
• Control – RISC Processor Two Level
• Charge Time – 2.5 to 3 hours
• Luminous Intensity – 190 (Lux/5M)
• Lamp Housing – Machined Aluminum
• Mount – HB Mount, Helmet Mount
• Added Features – Versatile Battery Clip, Optional Head Mount
• Size L x W x H – 7.7 x 4 x 5.2 cm (light)
• Weight – 370 grams

There were quite a few features that were what I would consider its strengths. The first strength; it’s really bright. I think I mentioned this earlier, and was amazed by this particular aspect. Second, it’s sturdy, and solid; It held up really well in all the circumstances I ran into (sorry, no crashes this time). This is designed to take the beating a mountain bike can deliver yet made for a road bike. The third, and final strength, it’s impecibly designed. My favorite feature is the power reserve that gives you an additional 30 minutes of light after the main battery dies giving ample opportunity to get to wherever you need to be.

The Topeak Moonshine is a bit spendy hovering around $399.00, but is well worth it if you ride at night on occasion.

Click here for the manufacturer’s site for more information.