Self powered bicycle lights are nothing new. The traditional dynamo light has been around for years, but faced one major problem that a new product on the market aims to solve; friction. The Magtenlight Company, based out of Hong Kong, says their Magtenlight self contained bicycle lighting system allows you to light your way without losing any energy from the bike, because unlike traditional dynamo systems, there is no actual contact with the bike to create the energy.
How? The system starts 28 magnets placed around the front hub, and as you move the bike, the passing of the magnets against one another creates energy, which is captured and sent directly to the bulb to be converted into light. No more friction against your rim means no more resistance when trying to light up at night. In fact, Magtenlight says there is no detectable difference, except for weight, when riding with one of their lights.
The light is claimed to produce about 15 lux when attached to a bicycle going 9 mph, and even if you have to stop or slow down, the light will continue to work. The system houses a battery that can power a front and rear light for about four minutes with no motion, so if you get stuck at a light or have to slow down during your commute you can be sure you will still be seen.
The system can be ordered directly from the company in Hong Kong via their English-language website here. Cost is $76, and comes with a white front and red rear light along with the necessary parts to attach and power them. See a picture of the full kit after the break.
