Now this is just mountain bike jewelry. It is small, expensive and coveted. The size is diminutive and it only weighs 185/145 grams, but turn it on and it packs quite a punch displayed in a big, even beam pattern. The LEDs and optics are identical to the Piko 4, but this sports a flashlight configuration.

It is really hard to believe that such a big 1200 Lumen light (measured at 1120 lumens) comes out of such a small package. There are two versions of this light, the Max and the MiniMax, and they are differentiated by their length and battery capacity. The Max goes for two hours and the MiniMax 1:20 on high.

The only real issue is heat, as this powerful LED puts out a lot of it. To this end, Lupine provides the most sophisticated thermal management available by stepping down the light before it gets too hot. So if you stop for a break during your ride, the Max and MiniMax will just step down to protect itself and to keep the light at its peak battery efficiency. Then when you start riding and bombing down hill, the light will detect it and ramp up to full brightness as it cools.

And finally, it is a Lupine, so one can expect fast and safe charging and ultimate selection when it comes to batteries. You can rely on this light day in and day out in the most inclement conditions. And when your kid starts riding ten years from now, you can hand down this light to them proudly.

For the ultimate setup, pair this with another Piko on the bar or a Wilma light delivering 2800 Lumens.

But alas, the US price is $300 for the tiny MiniMax so don't lose it. I may use it as a safety key chain for everyday use.

Specifications

  • Price Piko TL Max: $400
  • Price Piko TL MiniMax: $300
  • Claimed Lumens: 1200 Lumens
  • Measured Lumens: 1120 Lumens
  • Measured MTBR Lux: 110 Lux
  • Lumens per $ Piko TL Max: 2.80 Lumens
  • Lumens per $ Piko TL MiniMax: 3.03 Lumens
  • Lumens per gram Piko TL Max: 6.05 Lumens
  • Lumens per gram Piko TL MiniMax: 7.72 Lumens
  • Time on High Piko TL Max: 2:00 Hours
  • Time on High Piko TL MiniMax: 1:20 Hours
  • Charge Time: 2:00 Hours
  • Mounted Weight Piko TL Max: 185 grams
  • Mounted Weight Piko TL MiniMax: 145 grams
  • Category: Flashlight

Strengths

  • Best form factor and brightness ever achieved
  • Construction, switch action is flawless
  • Best in class charging technology
  • Handlebar mounting is removeable and can be aimed left to right
  • Big beam pattern
  • Piko TL Max is available if more run time is desired

Weaknesses

  • $300/$400 price is as big as its beam pattern
  • It heats up and steps down rather quickly in warm or slow riding conditions

Mounting

Awesome loop bar mount is attached with a thumb screw. It can be adjusted left to right.

Mtbr Light Meter Measurements

This light measured 110 Lux on our ambient light measurement facility. The light output measurement is performed by placing a Lux light meter beside the light. Both are pointed at the ceiling (five feet above) of a dark room. This measurement uses the ambient light produced by the bike light.

Integrating Sphere Measured Lumens

This light measured 1120 Lumens in an integrating sphere. Claimed Lumens by the manufacturer is 1200 Lumens. The Lumen-hour graph below shows how the light performs over the first three minutes of its battery cycle.

Compare all Lumen Tests here »



Tunnel Beam Pattern Photo

The location is useful since it has walls and a ceiling that can display a bike light beam pattern. The walls have a lot of graffiti on them and actually show detail when they are lit up by a light with a wide angle. Cones and targets are set up with the far target set up at 120 feet.

Compare all Tunnel Beam Patterns here »



For more information visit lupinenorthamerica.com.


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Related Links
2014 Tunnel Beam Pattern Comparisons »
2014 Mtbr Lumen Tests »
2013 Bike Lights Shootout »
2012 Bike Lights Shootout »
Mtbr Lights Reviews »
Mtbr Lights Forum »

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