On Tue, 12 Sep 2006 21:48:51 -0700, gobrigo wrote:
>> IME, non-bike-specific halogen bulbs have a much broader beam pattern
>> than the bike specific ones, even when rated "spot," and are not as
>> good for use in headlights.
>>
>> The Nite Rider bulbs I've had also have a heat shield or dissipator on
>> the back (an extra metal piece) and so are not exactly the same length
>> or functionality as a plain old MR-11 halogen bulb.
>
> The orig NR bulb has a 10 degree spread. I found 20w MR 11's with a 12
> degree spread for a MR 11 spot. Not too different, though I don't know
> what the quality of light will be. You're right about the heat shield.
> Its attached with clear silicone caulk. IT can be removed and re-glued.
Be careful with this. Bike light companies, especially the larger ones
like Niterider, have bulbs produced to a spec. They differ from generic
bulbs in brightness, beam pattern, and quality control. With a generic
bulb you're likely to get a beam that's not as bright, is too wide or too
narrow, and uneven, with annoying light and dark spots. The specs given
for generic bulbs are only nominal -- bulbs of the same spec vary among
manufacturers, and even among bulbs from the same batch. Also, I'm sure
the heatsink Niterider puts on their own bulbs is there for a reason.
Heatsinks aside, there's no reason not to try a generic bulb, but don't be
surprised if it doesn't perform as you expect; and the "cheaper"
price you paid for it (plus shipping) turns out to be money down the
drain. Sometimes it's cheaper to buy the more expensive one.
Matt O.
