Red taillights are an important piece of dusk and nighttime riding safety. Some would even argue for their use in daytime hours, just in case. Rechargeable lights are increasing popular choices for daily commuters tired of purchasing batteries, with USB becoming the near universal power interface. Runtimes listed are as claimed by manufacturer, your experience will vary with use and condition.

Planet Bike Superflash USB

Price: $35

Modes: Steady / Superflash

Runtime: Up to 36 h in SuperFlash

Mount: Clip and bike mount

Charging: Mini USB

Weight: 50 g (with seatpost mount)

Features: Low battery flash pattern for last 20 min of charge.

When the Planet Bike Superflash was introduced it instantly became the gold standard by which other blinkies are judged. This year it has been updated to a USB rechargeable model while retaining the familiar Superflash form. The clip mount isn’t as elegant as a built in band, especially when the bike mount is left behind empty, but it does allow you to clip it to your clothing or bag and is compatible with aftermarket rack mounts. The side recharging port helps to keep the electronics away from tire overspray.
www.planetbike.com

Cateye Rapid X

Price: $40

Modes: High / Low / Flash / Rapid Flash / Pulse / Vibration

Runtime: 1 / 5 / 30 / 16 / 16 / 8 h

Mount: Silicone band

Charging: Micro USB

Weight: 24 g

Features: Mounts to 12-32 mm diameter tubes, auto low battery 1 h flash mode, smart button.

The Cateye Rapid X is a featherweight contender and by far the lightest of these four lights. Coupled with the low profile design, the Rapid X is as at home on sleek road bikes as on the evening commute. Given the mounting style, it is however impossible to change the angle of the light for optimal visibility though the curved lens body provides a wide angle of view. Where other lights boast of side visibility, the Rapid X is nearly as bright from the sides as from the back. Leave the band on even when removed from the bike and you’ll be sure to not lose the rubber back panel that covers the body and USB port. www.cateye.com

Portland Design Works Aether Demon

Price: $49

Modes: Steady / Dance / Breathe / Group Ride

Runtime: 3.5 / 8 / 8 / 175 h

Mount: Clip and bike mount

Charging: Mini USB

Weight: 53 g (with seatpost mount)

Features: Epic Group Ride mode runtime at 10% power, smart button.

When it comes to ultimate run time, the PDW Aether Demon wins hands down with its seemingly never ending Group Ride mode. Helpful to not blind your friends behind you, it’s also a great bail out mode to have when you know you haven’t recharged as recently as you should have. The smart button prevents accidental pocket battery drains, and is easy to find and operate with gloves on. Just make sure the USB charging port is securely plugged before riding in the rain as it is in line of the tire spray. The Breathe mode is maybe the most eye pleasing and Dance the most eye catching—nice combo. www.ridepdw.com

Knog Blinder Road R

Price: $60

Modes: Steady / Fast / Chaser / Peleton / Eco-Flash

Runtime: 3.5 / 4 / 5 / 13 / 20 h

Mount: Seatpost silicone band

Charging: Male USB plug, includes cable

Weight: 53 g

Features: Completely submersible, cordless charging, smart button.

No matter the weather, the Knog Blinder Road R will continue to shine—it can go through an entire charge submerged in water. The Blinder does not need a cord to recharge, it plugs directly into a USB port, though it can be a tight fit in some configurations. The silicone mount and metal clasp make it easy to remove for charging or lockup, and are very durable as long as you don’t overstretch, though have no adjustment for better viewing angle. The battery indicator comes on too late to be much use and the button is hard to operate while riding, but this remains my most used taillight. www.knog.com.au