I'm sure some have you would have seen me recommending MagicShine lights, specifically the Monteer 6500S v2, as an alternative to the Outbounds that everyone recommends.
I had an issue several months ago where the lights would trip – it was the power lead at the battery end shorting when moved a certain way due to inadequate insulation at the ends, and the lights going into protection mode. This required a reset using a charger. I wasn't thrilled, but 'fixed' the issue with a cable tie stopping movement.
More recently, it has started happening at the end where the cable enters the light housing. This happened quite frequently and left me stranded on a few occasions, with thankfully usually my helmet light to get me back to the car.
I did some digging and turns out this is a not-uncommon issue. I've now returned the Magicshine as I've lost confidence in their reliability which was a key requirement for me.
I ordered the Outbounds as a replacement and I get it now. They are very clearly purpose-built for MTB, super simple to operate and while the outright brightness doesn't match the 6500, the actual light is way better quality. The 6500 seemed to rely on blasting light, whereas the Outbound beam patterns and how the headlamp ties in has been very well thought out, and provides a much better quality output.
My only comment is the Outbounds are heavier than just the light housing for the Magicshines which might be noticeable on the helmet, but the fully wireless setup is a worthwhile trade-off for this.
So this is me coming back to acknowledge that y'all were right in recommending the Outbounds and you have converted me.
If you have any questions about the Outbounds or want me to test anything, fire away.
by delusion01
4 Comments
Magicshines are just cheap typical Chinese lights. To me, it’s like buying Temu crap.
I have an outbound hangover for the helmet and a magic shine monteer 6500s on the bike. I’ll probably get a detour too before the winter but I really like the magicshine. Wireless for the helmet is a no brainer but the big battery of the magic shine is great. I’ve even charged my outbound after it died during a ride.
They are awesome. Australia sounds terrifying though.
I run my heavy hitters on the bars (2x ravemen pr2400).
If helmet light weight concerns you – as it does myself – then a good option (which is what I chose) is the exposure Diablo. The mk14 is about 120 grams and 2000lm max.
I keep a spare pr2400 and Diablo in my backpack for contingency and/or longer rides.
Edit: I note that the outbound hangover is similar weight or lighter even than the Diablo. So feel free to disregard that advice folks. Though that does appear at least to be a portal in the photo, which is about 170gm or so.