So I’m searching for a bike light that would light the road far ahead of me, to go with my Convoy S3. The most recommended option is Convoy C8, but it’s kinda big, so I was just wondering why not use a 10 degree TIR optic with a flashlight like S2+ to keep it compact?
What are the drawbacks? I did some research but no one actually talked about this here. I understand that the light will still be too floody, right?
Also, what prevents the optic to be used in S3 for example? it has the same reflector as S2+, but for some reason every listing omits the S3 compatibility.
Are the TIR pieces from Convoy store the same as from ex. LEDDNA, or do they specifically fit their flashlights with no modifications?
I plan to use it without the white “bracket” part to keep my lights waterproof and avoid sanding, I heard somewhere that you are supposed to install it without the glass lens, is it the case without the white plastic part?
What are the little LED gaskets used for? will I need to buy them?
Will the S2+ optics also fit in S6/S8 without any problems, or are they built differently?
Thanks in advance, if any of these questions have already been answered feel free to link to them.
I have used the LEDDNA lenses including the grey/white plastic part and also including an AR lens on top of it. 10° optic and the beam is nice and tight. Only disadvantage would be that some of the light is lost with the optic but I have no idea how much (run a FET driver so it is bright either way).
The LEDDNA lens is almost an exact fit, I didn’t have to sand anything down.
I do not know whether the Convoy optics are identical, sorry.
Check on my signature some essays on the TIR lenses on the S2+ both with XML2 and XPL-HI LEDs!
10 angle degree is more narrow and will - let’s say, be more throwy - while a 45° or 60° will give you more flood! Also, a pebbled lens will give you more flood and will be better for close range !
Hope this helps
I actually read your essays, thanks, but what I’m missing still is if a S2+ with a TIR lens could really replace the C8, with no noticeable drawbacks. I’m kinda skeptical since you don’t see many throwers the size of the S series lights. I get that the hotspot is not as defined and softer, but to what degree, like the M1/M2 lights or worse?
Sorry haha, I’m over thinking this too much, but I’m just a teen so really tight on a budget and use my bike a lot
The TIR optic in a S2+ will not replace a C8. The hotspot becomes “more defined” (as in, more defined than stock S2+ with orange peel reflector) but it will not throw as far or bright as a C8. This all also depends on what LED, firmware/driver, etc you are using. But I wouldn’t say it replaces a C8.
edit:
Every dedicated thrower I have has a more defined, longer-throwing hotspot. VG10, C8 all throw better in my case.
Oh, I see. Thanks a lot, that helped me decide. I’ll probably buy the C8 and throw in the S8 to the order, keep the S3 as an EDC and the “eights” go on my bike.
You could also look for the beamshots here on BLF. The C8 is a great light to have either way, you will not regret buying it! It is almost a “must-have” light on BLF
edit: almost forgot: WELCOME to BLF!
edit 2:
There are, however, better throwing lights in a more compact form. I have quite a few Thorfire lights which all throw quite well. Spend some time on BLF and the reviews, you’ll be very happy with the results.
S8 is unfortunately a light I have never owned, so can’t say anything about it.
Yup, just forgot this: Welcome to BLF and enjoy your time here!! :partying_face:
Back to what you asked for, why don’t you check for a Convoy S2 (not S2+), with Smooth (SMO) reflector and XPL-HI LED inside?
I don’t have any S2 but as far as I perceive, it has a deeper reflector, that will probably throw a bit more than the S2+ SMO reflector. If you add a XPL-HI LED, the throw will increase! And maybe you’ll keep on having a nice spill!
I’m just guessing as I don’t have the light myself. I only own some Convoy S2+.
Try and check for it
About the gaskets and TIRs on the S2, well you have some combinations that will let you have the TIR the glass lens + o-ring, while others may be a tight fit.
Not having a “large” budget, I would advise you to check first what kind of light would suit better and only after then spend some more to experiment other things
BTW, there are some other “bike lights” under the brand “Towild” that seem pretty cool ! Check on AliExpress for them, and also on Youtube to see some reviews! Maybe it suits you well
