Review: Monkey Lights!

A few months ago, we received a Monkey Light M204 to test out and review. I love checking out new gear and I was really looking forward to these lights. I wanted to make sure I'd have enough time to use them through a range of weather conditions and light levels before I made my final verdict. Sometimes I can be easily swayed by pretty accessories, only to find out later that they're all show and no substance or lack the quality to handle our rough lifestyle. 

First step, installation. I'm not very mechanically inclined so I searched YouTube to walk me through the process. 

It took me about 10 minutes to install. I had some trouble with the metal zip-tie but otherwise, it was really simple. 

The hardest part for me was deciding which bike to put it on. I settled on the Bullitt because the HaulaDay hadn't arrived yet and I wanted it on one of my more functional bikes. This light seemed a bit frivolous to me at first, something I wouldn't necessarily buy for myself, however, the more I use it, the more I want to use it. 

When I ride at night, I want to be as visible as possible. I have my front and rear lights as well as reflective sidewalls on my tires. The Monkey Light adds an additional layer of safety to our being able to be seen from the side. The lights are bright and the patterns are colorful and fun. It's especially exciting for all of us to pass a window at night and see our wheel dancing with color (my favorite setting is the color-changing rainbow, of course). Because the Bullitt has the extended box in front, often holding my most precious cargo, it's important that drivers notice us. This gets their attention and usually makes them smile as we pass by. This isn't an aggressive 1200 lumen strobe flash, this is a catch-your-eye-because-we're-fun-type light. I specifically choose the Bullitt now for night and low-light rides (like our super foggy mornings) because I feel it adds to our visibility. 

I've had the light now for about three months and have used it in different types of weather. The light is sealed in hard plastic and feels very solid, not flimsy at all. The wires are thick and well protected. I haven't had to replace the 3 AAA batteries, yet, but the next time I will do so with rechargeable ones. I can't see the lights very well from my spot on the saddle but the patterns entertain the boys on late night rides when they're tired. There's one button that's for on/off/blinky and the other changes colors. This is Monkeylectric's simplest model and costs about $25 on Amazon or at REI. There are some pretty amazing sets available! 

Our final verdict: we want more! I want these lights for every wheel on every bike. They're functional and well-built and they make me happy. It's win-win-win!