Sculpted aerodynamic profiles, and significant variation in tube diameter have become integral to many of the frames and components that we use. As much as we enjoy the benefits of this technology, it can make mounting equipment such as lights, computers etc, a little challenging.

The Knog Blinder MOB  Mr Chips front and rear light units are packed with features, but the aspect that initially drew me to them is their versatility to be used with modern bike/component design. These units are compact, neat, and lightweight, making them a discrete addition to your bars and seatpost.

The Knog Blinders have the potential to be mounted on both round and aero tube shapes. This is achieved by the shape of the lights, in the area where they contact the handlebar or seat post, and the inherent stretch within the rubber strap, which also forms part of the means of attaching the light. The strap is a replaceable item, but I have have not experienced any breakages during the twelve months that I have been using the lights. Once attached, the lights remain in position. Different length straps are provided to enable interchangeability between bikes.

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The front and rear lights have five different modes which range from the unit being constantly lit, strobe, and variations of intermittent flashing. These are accessed via the on/off button which sits at the rear of the light. From a personal perspective, I would prefer this button to be slightly more pronounced, as operating it with cold, wet hands, or in full finger winter gloves, would ideally be a little easier.

A combination of the LED technology and the design of the front and rear units provide a clean, bright light. The beam has a 120 degree angle, to assist front and side on visibility. The lumen output for the lights is shown as 80 for the front light, 44 for the rear. Knog identify that the lights provide the potential to be seen from at least 1.2 kilometres. Friends who I ride with advise me that the visibility provided is extremely good.

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The run time of the light units varies between two and sixty hours depending on the mode being used, and they have a recharge period of five hours (manufacturer’s information). I have generally used the Steady High and Fancy Flash modes, and found run times in keeping with those quoted. The recharging time is also in line with the manufacturer’s information, with recharging being achieved via an integrated USB plug.

Having experienced other LED lights being affected by water, to the point of them failing to operate during a ride, the waterproof feature of these Knog units is a huge plus point.  Numerous rides in wet weather have confirmed their resilience and reliability.

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If you are looking for compact, reliable lights, to provide visibility and compatibility with modern bike design, I would recommend you check out the Knog Blinder MOB  Mr Chips front and rear units.