I have a different model than the XM-L T6, but really, there's no need in putting another category just for another light as the reviews are all going to be about the same. All of these Cree lights are direct from China and very cheaply made. I've read numerous cases where the batteries that come with them are weak and when the owners took them apart found that they weren't even wired correctly. Why do folks continue to buy them? Because you can get a usable light with a backup/replacement battery for about $30. A proper light with the same output should run you about $300 . Now, I'm all for buying good things and I don't mind spending more for something that's going to last me. But, with lights...I don't use them that often. I wish I did, but I don't. So, spending this amount, even if it lasts me one season is the way to go.
Here's the way to get them....pick out the light you want. Remember, go big as the output is probably about half of the advertised lumen. Purchase a replacement or upgraded battery as well. I think my light cost $17 and the replacement, upgraded battery was another $15. That's still cheap as dirt. If you had to buy a new light every year, you'd break even. If you happen to get one that lasts two years, you're coming out saving money. If you get longer or were to get more than one light to last more than a year, you've really starting to save money.
Now, if you're planning a multi-day trip to someplace nice and expensive and it's a once in a lifetime trip and you're needing a light. By all means, don't take this one. Get a dependable light that you know will work. Maybe one of these as a backup, but really, I'd go with a nice Petzel headlamp for a backup if it were me.
Pros Price
Price
Price
Nice light pattern
Very bright
Cons Build quality is questionable.
Light is no where near 2600.
No warranty.
I have a different model than the XM-L T6, but really, there's no need in putting another category just for another light as the reviews are all going to be about the same. All of these Cree lights are direct from China and very cheaply made. I've read numerous cases where the batteries that come with them are weak and when the owners took them apart found that they weren't even wired correctly. Why do folks continue to buy them? Because you can get a usable light with a backup/replacement battery for about $30. A proper light with the same output should run you about $300 . Now, I'm all for buying good things and I don't mind spending more for something that's going to last me. But, with lights...I don't use them that often. I wish I did, but I don't. So, spending this amount, even if it lasts me one season is the way to go.
Here's the way to get them....pick out the light you want. Remember, go big as the output is probably about half of the advertised lumen. Purchase a replacement or upgraded battery as well. I think my light cost $17 and the replacement, upgraded battery was another $15. That's still cheap as dirt. If you had to buy a new light every year, you'd break even. If you happen to get one that lasts two years, you're coming out saving money. If you get longer or were to get more than one light to last more than a year, you've really starting to save money.
Now, if you're planning a multi-day trip to someplace nice and expensive and it's a once in a lifetime trip and you're needing a light. By all means, don't take this one. Get a dependable light that you know will work. Maybe one of these as a backup, but really, I'd go with a nice Petzel headlamp for a backup if it were me.
Pros
Price
Price
Price
Nice light pattern
Very bright
Cons
| ThankBuild quality is questionable.
Light is no where near 2600.
No warranty.
Very bright that lasted well beyond my longest ride of 2 hours.
Pros
Awesome value
Bright
Good Battery
Cons
| ThankBattery mount ripped on the first ride