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Magicshine RN 1200 Light: Illuminate Your Bicycle Rides

September 17, 2023

After enjoying 3+ years of reliable service from my BTWIN FL920 front light, I found myself in need of an upgrade for enhanced lumens and extended battery life. The Magicshine RN 1200 light emerged as the ideal contender, meeting my technical specifications without breaking the bank.

Magicshine RN 1200 Light: Build and Lumens

The sturdy Aluminum housing of the RN 1200 speaks volumes about its exceptional build quality. The jump from 280 to 1200 Lumens of full power was a game-changer for me, providing a brighter and more powerful beam for my rides.

Installation

Installing the Magicshine RN 1200 light was a breeze. With multiple straps catering to standard handlebars, the process was straightforward. While the generic quarter-turn Garmin-style mount performed well, I felt the grip could be slightly improved. I assume, Magicshine has improved this in their future models. Interestingly, I found that the light snugly fit onto my Wahoo bike computer mount, providing a more secure hold. But that remains reserved for the Wahoo.

Positioning and Compatibility

For those with multiple devices on their handlebars, positioning the RN 1200 can be a tad tricky. To ensure an optimal beam as a headlight, it’s best to center the light on the handlebar. This may require adjusting the placement of other devices, allowing for easy mounting and dismounting.

Charging Efficiency

One standout feature of the RN 1200 is its USB C connector, a welcome upgrade from the USB A micro. With a 3A power adapter, a full charge was achieved in just 2.5 hours. The 4000 mAh battery capacity exceeded my expectations, providing over 9 hours of usage on a single charge, despite the advertised 7-hour duration on FLASH 1 mode.

Modes and Operation

With two ‘Flash modes’ and three ‘Always on modes’ (Low, Mid, High), the Magichshine RN 1200 light offers versatile lighting options. The Mid-mode proved more than sufficient for my late-evening rides. The power switch on top, complete with a green backlit LED, responded seamlessly to single and double taps for mode adjustments.

Weatherproof Design

Sporting an IPX7 Waterproof grade, the RN 1200 can withstand immersion in up to 3 feet of water. This makes it a reliable companion in unpredictable weather conditions, particularly during monsoons.

Additional Features

Beyond its primary function, the RN 1200 boasts a hidden gem – the ability to serve as a power bank. Utilizing a USB C > C cable, you can charge other devices on the go. Moreover, a unique, unadvertised feature allows you to charge the RN 1200 with an external power bank while it’s in use, making it a valuable asset for bike touring and late-night rides.

Magicshine RN 1200 light: Conclusion

The Magicshine RN 1200 Front Light for Bicycles has proven to be a worthy upgrade, excelling in both illumination and visibility. Its robust construction, powerful beam intensity, generous battery capacity, swift charging, and power bank functionality make it a standout choice for cyclists. Kudos to the BOTS team for timely delivery – a perfect finishing touch to a superb product. Ride on, illuminated and safe! 🚴‍♂️🔦👍

Foot Powered Rider

'Foot Powered Rider' is a Navi Mumbai-based Digital Media pro, Filmmaker, Paragliding enthusiast, and avid shutterbug. When not behind a screen, he soars through the skies and captures breathtaking moments. On solid ground, he pedals his way to fitness and adventure.