Exposure Lights Buying Guide: The Best High‑Powered MTB & Road Bike Lights
For night trails, winter commuting, or technical descents, selecting the right high-powered bike light is essential. Exposure Lights delivers a range that combines brightness, durability, and advanced features. This guide highlights the Joystick MK18, Boost DayBright MK2, Race MK19, and Boost‑R MK2, helping riders choose the perfect light for MTB, road, or e-bike use.
What to Look for in a Quality Bike Light
Consider these factors when choosing a high-performance light:
- Lumens (brightness): Higher lumens improve visibility for night rides and technical terrain.
- Beam pattern & spread: Narrow spot beams for long throw vs. wide beams for cornering and peripheral vision.
- Runtime and battery: Long runtime is vital. USB‑C fast charging and power bank functionality are advantageous.
- Weight & mounting: Lightweight options reduce fatigue. Look for flexible mounting on helmet or handlebar.
- Durability: Aluminium housing, impact resistance, and weatherproofing (IP ratings) ensure reliability.
- Terrain suitability: Off-road/MTB needs high lumen wide beams; road riders benefit from long-throw beams; urban cyclists focus on visibility and weight.
Top Exposure Lights Models
Tried and test by the Team at Wheelbase.
1. Exposure Joystick MK18 | Helmet & Handlebar Light
Ideal for: Riders needing a versatile, compact light that can be helmet or handlebar mounted.
Key Features:
- Lumens: 1 200 for compact but powerful output
- Weight: ~105 g, ideal for helmet mounting
- Mounting: Helmet and handlebar included
- Charging: USB‑C fast charging, can act as a power bank
- Tech: Tap Technology for instant mode switching; Intelligent Thermal Management maintains consistent output
- Durability: Lightweight yet robust for trail and enduro use
Best for: Trail or enduro riders who need independent beam direction and the flexibility of helmet or handlebar mounting.
2. Exposure Boost DayBright MK2 | Front Light
Ideal for: Commuters and urban cyclists needing daylight visibility.
Key Features:
- Lumens: Up to 600 for maximum daytime visibility
- Runtime: 2–24 hours
- Beam: Wide for traffic visibility
- Weight & Mount: Lightweight, handlebar mount
- Charging: USB‑C fast charging
- Durability: Weatherproof and robust
Best for: City commuting, daylight rides, and mixed road traffic situations.
3. Exposure Race MK19 | Front Light
Ideal for: Mountain bikers and road cyclists needing high-output night illumination.
Key Features:
- Lumens: Up to 4 000+
- Runtime: 1.5–20 hours
- Beam: Long-throw spot plus wide peripheral coverage
- Weight: Lightweight handlebar design
- Charging: USB‑C fast charging
- Durability: CNC-machined aluminium, robust build
Best for: Night MTB, enduro, and off-road riding requiring powerful front illumination.
4. Exposure Boost‑R MK2 | Rear Light
Ideal for: Riders prioritising rear visibility and safety.
Key Features:
- Lumens: 200–300 depending on mode
- Modes: Multiple flash and constant modes
- Mounting: Seat post or helmet mount
- Charging: USB‑C rechargeable
- Durability: Weatherproof and lightweight
Best for: Commuters, urban cyclists, and night riders wanting a reliable rear light.
Choosing the Right Light for Your Ride
| Ride Style |
Recommended Features |
Recommended Model |
| Night trail / MTB |
High lumen, long throw, rugged |
Race MK19 |
| Urban commuting |
Daylight visibility, lightweight |
Boost DayBright MK2 |
| Mixed trail / independent beam |
Helmet + handlebar mounting, compact |
Joystick MK18 |
| Rear visibility / safety |
Bright, compact, multiple modes |
Boost‑R MK2 |
