MTB rear lights: rechargeable and compact

Why fit a rear light to a mountain bike?

Mountain bike rides often begin with a few miles of road and sometimes end at dusk, especially in winter. On public roads at night, a red rear light is part of the required equipment: in the UK, the Highway Code states that your cycle must have white front and red rear lights lit at night, and in Ireland a red rear light is required during lighting-up time. On the trails, it also helps the group: on a night ride, everyone can pick out the rider ahead, even in dust or fog.

Where should you mount a rear light on a mountain bike?

The seatpost remains the classic spot, but a mountain bike with a dropper post poses a problem: the upper part slides into the frame when you lower the saddle, and a light fitted to it would stop it going down. Several solutions exist: a light that attaches to the saddle rails, a strap-on model fitted to the seat stay, or a light clipped to your backpack or the back of your helmet. On an electric mountain bike, some lights plug directly into the bike's battery.

Rechargeable, waterproof, light modes: the right criteria

A light that recharges by USB cable avoids batteries and charges when you get home, at the same time as your phone. Check the stated run time in the mode you will actually use, and its resistance to spray: in mountain biking, the rear wheel often covers the light in mud. A silicone strap fits tubes of any shape and comes off without tools. On the road, the rules on modes differ: the Highway Code allows flashing lights in the UK, while some countries require a steady rear light. A flashing mode catches the eye, but check that it is accepted where you ride.

Front lights and other rear lights

To see the trail, the rear light goes with a powerful front light, to be chosen from MTB lights. If you are looking for a more powerful light or one with radar for the road, see the wider range of rear bike lights.

Which MTB rear light brand should you choose?

Kellys, a Slovak bike manufacturer, offers a wide range of rear lights: the Illux USB, with 16 LEDs, approved to the German StVZO standard, and the Lumio, with COB LEDs and USB-C charging, offering eight lighting modes.

MTB rear lights on sale

Lights from previous ranges move into the MTB electronics outlet, and new models arrive in new arrivals. Get equipped before the days draw in.

Frequently asked questions

Is a rear light compulsory for mountain biking?

As soon as you ride on a road at night, yes in the UK and Ireland: a red rear light is required, along with a front light. Elsewhere, check the rules that apply where you ride. On a trail, no rule requires one, but it is still useful for being seen by the group and for riding home by road at dusk.

Can you fit a rear light to a dropper post?

Not on the sliding part: the light would stop the saddle from dropping and could be torn off. Fit it to the saddle rails, the seat stay or your pack. Some lights are designed for these positions, so check the mount supplied.

Is a rear light on your helmet useful?

Mounted high up, it can be seen from a distance, above cars and hedges, and follows your head movements. It complements the light on the bike rather than replacing it: keep a light fitted to the bike for road sections.

How much run time for a night mountain bike ride?

Choose a light whose run time, in the mode you use, comfortably exceeds the length of your ride. Cold reduces battery capacity: recharge the light before every winter ride rather than relying on the remaining charge.

How do you look after a rear light after a muddy ride?

Rinse it with clean water, without a pressure washer, making sure the USB port cover is closed. Dry it before recharging and clean the lens, as dried mud greatly reduces visibility.