Lezyne’s first foray into the light market sees the arrival of three typically stylish lights. The Mini Drive sits at the bottom of the company’s debut range, priced at £49.99 and with a maximum output of 150 Lumens.
Out of the box
Out of the boxPull the light out of the box and first thing you notice is how light it is, just 73g without the bracket. The light is housed in a 100 per cent CNC-machined aluminium unit with laser etched graphics. Less is more when it comes to Lezyne products and the Mini Drive is very small, sitting inconspicuously on the handlebars, unlike some of the obtrusive commuting torches we’ve seen.
Attaching the light is quick and easy thanks to Lezyne’s tool-free bracket, with a thumb screw to attach the mount to the ‘bars. An indication of Lezyne’s attention to detail comes from the fact that they supply two brackets; one suitable to a diameter of 25.4mm and the other to 31.8mm. In the past we’ve found other brackets just about squeeze onto chunkier handlebars or need adapting, so we were pleased to see this.
The weatherproof unit slots into the mount without any problems and is held securely is place, regardless of the quality of road surface. We also like the fact that the part of the mount to which the light attaches provides a little flexibility in the direction the torch is facing.
Performance
The light has four settings; high (150 Lumens), medium (100 Lumens), low (50 Lumens), and flashing. You’re best using high, medium or flashing to ensure maximum visibility, but the LED produces a strong beam thanks to an effective lens reflector.
Charging is by USB, so handy for when you get to work. Just plug it into your PC and you’re away, with the light flashing (only with a very dim output) while charging. A wall plug adapter is available as an accessory. Out on the road, the light switches to flashing when low on battery.
So the Mini Drive is a great torch for commuting, but how does it fair for occasional training at night? If you stick to reasonably well lit roads, high power is strong enough to light up a small section of the Tarmac in front of you, and, if riding at a steady pace, capable of picking out potholes and other hazards – as long as you don’t come across them too quickly that is, and it’s best backed up with a flashing safety light.
Trouble is, battery life is stated as one hour (in reality, a touch less) on full power, so if you’re planning considerable miles after darkness, it’s best to look further up the range, and certainly if you’re riding on unlit roads. The Power Drive (£79.99) puts out 300 Lumens, while the Super Drive (£99.99) boasts 450 Lumens, with the lowest setting equivalent to the Mini Drive maximum of 150 Lumens. Both lights will be reviewed on RCUK.
But, to be fair, the Mini Drive is designed largely for commuting, and it’s an impressive package in that regard, with the capability to throw in a few extra training miles if you, and your legs, fancy it.
