BY SHANNON MOMINEE
PHOTO BY JUSTIN STEINER
PRICE: $400 MADE IN GERMANY LUPINENORTHAMERICA.COM
LUMENS: 750 STEADY MODES: FIVE PROGRAMMABLE MODES FLASH MODES: SLOW, FAST, SOS
RUNTIME (STEADY): 2 - 40 HOURS WEIGHT (WITH MOUNT): 202G
MOUNTS INCLUDED/AVAILABLE: BAR MOUNT IS $40 EXTRA
CHARGER TYPE: WALL CHARGER WITH COAXIAL CONNECTOR CHARGE TIME: 4 HOURS
The PikoTL Max packs plenty of light output in its solid, CNC-machined aluminum body. It features 56 pre-programmed combinations for the five steady and three flash modes.
A single on/off button controls programming, with flashes indicating which combo you’ve selected. Programming is easy and a cheat sheet on the body is helpful. I set mine to high, medium, and slow flash. The button also indicates charge status and battery level.
The beam has a generous, concentrated center spot with wide spillover. The circular pattern is great for use on city streets or off-road adventures. The slow flash mode isn’t annoying like fast flashes can be.
Lupine’s bar mount (available for $40) screws into the unit and swivels 360˚ for perfect positioning. It’s secured with an O-ring — no tools are needed — and fits a wide range of bar sizes. The mount is a no-brainer to use and held the light secure on all terrain without dipping forward.
This little light has a big price tag, but its high output, solid construction, and preset options warrant the price.
WHO IS THIS LIGHT GOOD FOR?
The PikoTL Max’s programming capabilities would benefit a commuter who also tours and races and wants one light with a tailored button/output scheme. Deep pockets don’t hurt, either.