11 best bicycle light generators

Bicycle light generators, also known as dynamos or bicycle dynamos, are devices used to generate electrical power for powering lights on a bicycle. These generators are commonly used as an alternative to battery-powered bike lights, offering a sustainable and reliable source of lighting.Here's what you need to know about bicycle light generators:

  1. Function:

    • Bicycle light generators work by converting mechanical energy from the rotation of the bike's wheel into electrical power.
    • This electrical power is then used to illuminate front and rear lights, providing visibility and safety during low-light conditions or nighttime riding.
  2. Types of Bicycle Light Generators:

    • Hub Dynamo: Hub dynamos are integrated into the front wheel hub, typically replacing the standard hub. They are efficient, low-maintenance, and often preferred by touring cyclists and commuters.
    • Bottle Dynamo: Bottle dynamos are mounted on the frame or fork of the bicycle. They use a rubber roller that contacts the tire's sidewall to generate electricity when the wheel turns. While they are less efficient and may wear the tire over time, they are a cost-effective option.
  3. Power Output:

    • The power output of a bicycle light generator is measured in watts. Higher-output dynamos can provide brighter lighting but may also produce more resistance when pedaling.
  4. Lighting Components:

    • Bicycle light generators are often sold as a system that includes both the dynamo and the lights. This ensures compatibility and ease of installation.
    • Dynamo lights typically include a front headlight and a rear taillight, both of which are powered by the generator.
  5. Advantages:

    • Sustainability: Bicycle dynamos provide an eco-friendly and sustainable source of power since they do not require disposable batteries.
    • Reliability: They provide a continuous source of power as long as the bike is in motion, eliminating concerns about battery life.
    • Visibility: Dynamo-powered lights offer consistent and reliable illumination, enhancing safety during night rides.
  6. Installation and Maintenance:

    • Hub dynamos require professional wheel installation or wheel replacement, while bottle dynamos can be easily attached to the frame or fork.
    • Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and adjusting, is necessary to ensure the dynamo functions correctly.
  7. Usage Considerations:

    • Dynamo-generated lighting is most effective at higher speeds, so they may not provide as much light at slower speeds or when stationary.
    • Some dynamos have built-in features to reduce resistance when the lights are off, minimizing any drag effect on your ride.
  8. Compatibility:

    • Ensure that the dynamo system you choose is compatible with your bicycle's wheel size, frame design, and intended use.

In summary, bicycle light generators, such as hub dynamos and bottle dynamos, are devices that generate electrical power from the motion of a bicycle's wheel to power front and rear lights. They offer sustainability, reliability, and consistent lighting for cyclists, making them a popular choice for touring, commuting, and nighttime riding. Proper installation and maintenance are essential for their efficient operation.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best bicycle light generators on the market
  

Capstone Generator Light Set

Kent International, Inc.

Based on 187 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Capstone bicycle accessories and protective gear are quality products designed for the casual cyclist.

  • Large Front Headling and Small Rear Taillight
  • 6 Volt 3 Watt Generator
  • Constant Bright Mode
  • Reliable and Durable Design

User questions & answers

Question: Can this be used on a motorized bike
Answer: The generator can be used on a motorized bike. Don't go over 20 ,mph or you will burn out the lightbulbs.
Question: I can get the head-lamp working, but the taillight will not work. Any ideas
Answer: It’s a piece of junk. Buy a better generator
Question: how do you install this thing
Answer: we never did get it to install but the generator part did not work. brackets and all the parts were wrong for install. we tried and were unsuccessful.
Question: How do I turn on the headlight
Answer: After you mount the generator to the frame there is a large flat piece of steel at the bottom of the generator. This generator has a steel spring attached to the housing. Press the flat piece of steel which should make the generator snap on to the sidewall of the tire.

Glenparts 12V 6W Dynamo Headlight & Tail Light kit Set fits Racing Touring Bikes Tricycles

Glenparts

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

12V 6W Dynamo Headlight & Tail Light kit Set fits Racing Touring Bikes Tricycles



High Quality 12V 6W Friction Generator Dynamo, Head Light and Tail Light Kits



Fits most Bicycles: BMX Bike, Cruiser, Dirt Jumper, Electric Bike, Folding Bike,

Kids Bike, Mountain Bike, Road Bike - Racing, Touring, Tricycle



Dynamo output: 12V 6W



There are 2 connectors on one end of the generator

The little nub with "H 12V-6W" connects to the front headlights

The other one with "T 2.5V-0.5W" is for the tail lights

The front headlights must be attached to the frame of the bike for the (-) charge

  • Free domestic shipping
  • One Year Warranty
  • Brand New High Quality Aftermarket Carburetor

YSD DL09 LED Dynamo Bicycle Light, Dynamo Bike Headlight&Motorized Friction Generator. 100 Lumens, Waterproof, Easy to Install, Never Need Battery for Bike Light

MYT Technology Company

Based on 21 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Light Source: white LED 1 pcs.

Luminous flux: 100 Lumens

Light intensity:center: 1000CD, surround: 800CD

Dynamo Headlight Power: 4.8V*1.2W

Safe Design: Reflector and clear cut-off line(will not affect the opposite coming bike).

Lighting range is wide.

High brightness with low riding speed, even walking speed.

Easy to mounte



Package Contents:

1 x Y-SD Dynamo bike light

1 x zinc plated bracket ((Max inner diameter about 1.65 inch. It is easy to mounte on the front fork of mountain bike)

1 x rubber block (To avoid hurting front fork when zinc plated bracket is mounted.)

1 x cotton cap

1 x User Manual

  • Luminous flux: 100 Lumens (white LED 1 pcs),
  • 4.8V*1.2W (never need battery for bike headlight again)
  • Reflector, Clear Cut-off Line and Waterproof
  • High brightness even with walking speed
  • Do not hurt bike tyre with cotton cap, suitable for various kinds of bicycles

User questions & answers

Question: Does it slip in the rain
Answer: I didnt have any slipping problems in the rain. The light works great and maintains the level of brightness even when riding slow.
Question: Will this work with a mens hybrid bike having large tires? Is the bracket long enough for large tires
Answer: Thank you for your questions. We did not test the headlight on a mens hybrid bike with big tires before. If the diameter of front fork is less than 1.65 inch(this is the key point I think), the bracket could be mounted. So, the bracket should be long enough to work once the light can touch the tire.
Question: Can the light be mounted away from the generator? Like instead of right next to it, in the middle of the fork
Answer: For DL09 dynamo bike light , the light and generator are an integral one. We do not suggest mount them separately.
Question: Does the dynamo bicycle light work on e bikes
Answer: Hi Dear, thank you for your question. This dynamo bicycle light does NOT work on e bikes. We have E bike lights, but do not sell on Amazon. Sorry.

Fuzbaxy Bicycle Motorized Bike Friction Generator Dynamo Headlight Tail Light Kit 12V 6W

Fuzbaxy

Based on 159 reviews Check latest price
  • Front light: 12x8x8cm(4.72x3.15x3.15"), Tail light: 4.5x2.4x2.4cm (1.77x0.94x0.94")
  • Dynamo output: 12v 6w,Material: Chorme
  • This light kit fit for most bicyle motorized bike.
  • put your generate electricity lamp to install it to your bicycle front fork or Bicycle Carrier after install front headlight and taillight
  • press your bicycle lamp on wheel when you need to use it ,put the power head of generate electricity lamp coincide with the wheel ,then Can drive the generator power generation through theFriction

User questions & answers

Question: Can it be used on a fat tire bicycle
Answer: As long as it fits on top of the tire
Question: What kind of bulbs is in the headlamp and tail
Answer: It is halogen lamp
Question: Are the switches included in the light set or are the switches a different product. Is a switch required to run the light set
Answer: There is no switch.And do not need a switch to run the light set. The friction between the bicycle tire and the generator turn the light on. The bike turns and the lights come on,the bike stopped and the lights went out. The wire is long enough to connect the headlight and tail light,
Question: Can this put out 14v to charge a 12v battery
Answer: I wouldn't try it. It might charge a 12v battery, however finding a terminal on the bike battery that would allow you to connect to termals on the 12 vold battery a bit of a nightmare.

Product features

Dynamo Installation(Front&Rear axle)

  1. Fixed Dynamo perpendicular to the line
  2. Roller must be placed at right angle to the center of the tire
  3. bracket screws should be kept tight to avoid slipping and damage to tire
  4. Fasten the ground screw tightly to the frame

Head Lamp Installation

  1. Head Lamp installation see Fig as shown
  2. Before installing,the Lamp Rackrand frame must be clean
  3. Connect the one end of the core to press button type connector as shown in Fig

How to connect the cord

  1. Press the connector dy thumb and an eyelet will be se en.Put the cord through the eyelet.
  2. The bottom of dynamo unit marked with 12V 5.5W for head lamp and 2.5V 0.5W for tail lamp and any miseonnecting will destroy tail lamp and get with out light of head lamp.
  3. You can use it, and then go wherever you want to go

Ways of protection

  1. To keep from rust, apply grease and lightly rub chromiumplated part of the lamp weekly or by-weekly.
  2. Oil the moving part of dynamo unit every or two weeks
  3. Do not wash the reflector but clean dust gently with soft flannelette if necessary.
  4. Keep the roller free of mud to avoid slipping.
  5. Lower the speed when changing the beam to avoid damage to tail lamp.
Note:

The front headlight must be attached to the frame of the bike for the (-) charge.

You may need some extra cable head lamp connection, or you can cut some lines from tail light.

Pakage Included:

1 X Dynamo power supply

1 X Head Lamp

1 X Tail Lamp

2 X Fixing tools

X-Factor 3-Inch Bicycle Generator Light Set

KENT INTERNATIONAL INC.

Based on 203 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Never run out of the light you need to see what's in front of you. Large white headlight and small red tail light are powered by a 6 volt, 3 watt generator. No need for batteries, every pedal powers the lights.

  • Product Type: OUTDOOR_RECREATION_PRODUCT
  • Package quantity: 1
  • Model Number: 96049
  • Country of Orgin: China

User questions & answers

Question: Good evening. Is this item waterproof
Answer: This item didn't work for me with a dry tire, so I doubt it would work with a wet tire.
Question: Looking to use this on a custom radio flyer pull cart. Would i generate enough rps to power some led lights? Going to use some motorcycle leds
Answer: I WOULD NOT KNOW.MY ORDER DID NOT WORK .I THREW IT IN THE TRASH.
Question: What size bulbs does this use
Answer: The front uses a 3 watt bulb and the rear a 1 watt bulb, they are like flashlight bulbs.
Question: rpm to generate max. voltage
Answer: There is no upper limit, so you have to be careful. I was getting 8 volts at around 10MPH, and 14 at 17MPH. The bulbs held, though.

YSD DL10 LED Dynamo Bicycle Light, Dynamo Bike Headlight&Motorized Friction Generator. 200 Lumens, Waterproof, Easy to Install, Never Need Battery Bike Light

MYT Technology Company

Based on 58 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Light Source: white LED 1 pcs.

Luminous flux: 200 Lumens

Light intensity:center: 2000CD, surround: 1000CD

Dynamo Headlight Power: 4.8V*1.2W

Safe Design:Both sides safe lighting(people on left and right can see you easily) and clear cut-off line(will not affect the opposite coming bike).

Lighting range is wide. High brightness with low riding speed, even walking speed.

Easy to mounte



Package Contents:

1 x Y-SD Dynamo headlight

1 x zinc plated bracket ((Max inner diameter about 1.65 inch. It is easy to mounte on the front fork of mountain bike)

1 x rubber block (To avoid hurting front fork when zinc plated bracket is mounted.)

1 x cotton cap

1 x User Manual

  • Luminous flux: 200 Lumens (white LED 1 pcs),
  • 4.8V*1.2W (never need battery again)
  • Both Sides Safe Lighting, Clear Cut-off Line and Waterproof
  • High brightness even with walking speed
  • Do not hurt bike tyre with cotton cap, suitable for various kinds of bicycles

User questions & answers

Question: How does this work
Answer: Dear Glen, Thank you for your question. This dynamo bike headlight DL10 will turn on/work when it turns with your bike front tyre by friction. It means you will never need batteries for your bike headlight. For details, I renewed 2 pictures at the link ( https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06ZYXGY3K ). Please check them in details. Any further questions, please let me know. Nice day! Colin Chou/MYT Technology Co., Ltd
Question: Is this only for motorized bikes or will it work on my human pedaled bike
Answer: This light work on human pedaled bike.
Question: Can I order a red light for the rear wheel? If so where, and if not why
Answer: It seems there is no red light for rear wheel here. MYT company did not produce that kind of light. We only have solar tail light on sale. Really sorry.
Question: The roller on the dynamo has to touch the tyre to generate power. Is it possible to move the bottle away from touching the tyre easily
Answer: Yes. Like any regular dynamo for bikes, the dynamo can be flipped to touch the tyre and generate electricity or not to touch the tyre. it has On and Off positions. Easily operate.

Estink Headlight TailLight Kit, 12V 6W Friction Generator Dynamo Lamp for Bicycle Motorized Bike

Estink

Based on 11 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Description:

The friction generator dynamo light could provides high brightness for visibility and be safe for long time use, fit for most bicycle and motorized bike.



Specification:

Condition: 100% Brand New

Material: Hardware

Main Color: Silver

Dynamo Output: 12V 6W

Package Weight: Approx. 727g / 25.6oz

Application: Fits most bicycles: for BMX Bike, for Cruiser, for Dirt Jumper, Electric Bike, Folding Bike, Kids Bike, Mountain Bike, Road Bike - Racing, Road Bike - Touring, Tricycle



Package Included:

1 * Headlight Tail Light Kit

1 * Pair of Bulbs



Note:

1.Put your generate electricity lamp to install it to your bicycle front fork or Bicycle Carrier after install front headlight and taillight.

2.Press your bicycle lamp on wheel when you need to use it, put the power head of generate electricity lamp coincide with the wheel, then Can drive the generator power generation through the Friction.

  • 【Fitment】For most bicycle and motorized bike, including BMX bike, cruiser, dirt jumper, electric bike, folding bike, kids bike, mountain bike, road bike-racing/touring, tricycle,etc.
  • 【Dynamo Output】12V, 6W.
  • 【High Brightness】Provides maximum visibility to enhance your road safety.
  • 【Main Advantages】Low power consumption and energy saving, long life span, waterproof, safety, environmental-friendly.
  • 【Easy Installation】After installing the headlights and taillights, mount the generator light on the bicycle front fork or bicycle frame. When need to use, press the bicycle light on the wheel to match the power head of the generator lamp with the wheel, and then drive the generator to generate electricity by friction.

User questions & answers

Question: Is there any soldering required
Answer: India

YSD Bicycle LED Light with Reflector Bike Friction Power Generator Dynamo Headlight

MYT Technology Company

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Light Source: white LED 1 pcs.

Luminous flux: 100 Lumens

Light intensity:center: 1000CD, surround: 800CD

Dynamo Headlight Power: 4.8V*1.2W

Safe Design: Reflector and clear cut-off line(will not affect the opposite coming bike).

Lighting range is wide.

High brightness with low riding speed, even walking speed.

Easy to mounte



Package Contents:

1 x Y-SD Dynamo headlight

1 x zinc plated bracket ((Max inner diameter about 1.65 inch. It is easy to mounte on the front fork of mountain bike)

1 x rubber block (To avoid hurting front fork when zinc plated bracket is mounted.)

1 x cotton cap

1 x User Manual

  • Luminous flux: 100 Lumens (white LED 1 pcs),
  • 4.8V*1.2W (never need battery for bike headlight again)
  • Reflector, Clear Cut-off Line and Waterproof
  • High brightness even with walking speed
  • Do not hurt bike tyre with cotton cap, suitable for various kinds of bicycles

Headlight Tail Light Kit,Friction Generator Dynamo Headlight Tail Alternative Energy Light Kit for Bicycle Motorized Bike 12V 6W

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Features:

100% Brand New and High Quality Headlight Tail Light Kit.

High brightness provides maximum visibility to enhance your road safety.

Low power consumption and energy saving, long life span.

Waterproof, safety ,environmental protection, ideal for Bicycle amateur /lover and bike Travelling.

Dynamo output: 12V, 6W, can be used for long time.

Easy to install, perfect fit your motorcycles, Motorized Bikes or Bicycles.

Fits most bicycles: for BMX Bike, for Cruiser, for Dirt Jumper, Electric Bike, Folding Bike, Kids Bike, Mountain Bike, Road Bike - Racing, Road Bike - Touring, Tricycle.

Specification:

Condition: 100% Brand New

Material: Hardware

Main Color: Silver

Dynamo Output: 12V 6W

Package Weight: Approx. 727g / 25.6oz

Application: Fits most bicycles: for BMX Bike, for Cruiser, for Dirt Jumper, Electric Bike, Folding Bike, Kids Bike, Mountain Bike, Road Bike - Racing, Road Bike - Touring, Tricycle

Package Included:

1 * Headlight Tail Light Kit

1 * Pair of Bulbs

Note:

1. Put your generate electricity lamp to install it to your bicycle front fork or Bicycle Carrier after install front headlight and taillight.

2. Press your bicycle lamp on wheel when you need to use it, put the power head of generate electricity lamp coincide with the wheel, then Can drive the generator power generation through the Friction.

  • Easy to install, perfect fit your motorcycles, Motorized Bikes or Bicycles. It is your best choice to make your motorcycle better.
  • High brightness provides maximum visibility to enhance your road safety.
  • Low power consumption and energy saving, long life span.,Waterproof, safety ,environmental protection。
  • put your generate electricity lamp to install it to your bicycle front fork or Bicycle Carrier after install front headlight and taillight
  • press your bicycle lamp on wheel when you need to use it ,put the power head of generate electricity lamp coincide with the wheel ,then Can drive the generator power generation through theFriction

LIOOBO LED Bicycle Bike Head Light Bicycle Front and Rear LightsMotorized Bike Friction Dynamo Cycling Light Head Lamp Tail Light

LIOOBO

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Description

This neat bike light will keep you safe with this dynamo lights set that can be seen from a far. The headlight and the read light is fitted to a dynamo which gives the lights all the power they need to work so no need for batteries. Comes complete with wires ready to fit.



Features

- Color: As shown.

- Material: high material.

- Size: 7 x 6 x 5 cm.

- Brand new and High quality.

- This neat bike light will keep you safe with this dynamo lights set that can be seen from a far.

- The headlight and the read light is fitted to a dynamo which gives the lights all the power they need to work so no need for batteries.

- Comes complete with wires ready to fit.

Dear buyer, Due to lighting effect,monitor's brightness,manual measurement and etc, there could be some slight differences in the color and size between the photo and the actual item. Sincerely hope that you can understand! Thank you!



Package Including


1 x Bike Light

  • Bicycle Lights Generator Friction Dynamo Bike LED Headlight Rear Light Sets Bicycle Acessories
  • This neat bike light will keep you safe with this dynamo lights set that can be seen from a far.
  • The headlight and the read light is fitted to a dynamo which gives the lights all the power they need to work so no need for batteries.
  • Comes complete with wires ready to fit. Brand new and High quality.
  • The light catch any drivers attention.

Beautylady Retro Bicycle Headlight Tail Light Kit Vintage Old Style Dynamo Generator Headlamp 12V 6W Super Bright

Beautylady

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Beautylady retro classic vintage style bike headlight, make your bicycle unique. Riding at night brings you safety, makes you perfectly visible at night and offers excellent protection on the road.



Features:

Very durable and lasts long.

Proper bright, makes you noticeable on the road.

Chrome housing is tough and performs very well.

Fit for most bicycle and motorized bike, easy to attach.



Specifications:

Condition: 100% Brand New

Material: Chrome

Color: Sliver

Weight: 712g

Front light: 12x8x8 (cm)

Tail light: 4.5x2.4x2.4 (cm)

Dynamo output:12V 6W



Notices:

The front headlight must be attached to the frame of the bike for the (-) charge.

You may need some extra cable head lamp connection, or you can cut some lines from taillight.



Package Included:

1pc Dynamo power supply

1pc Head Lamp

1pc Tail Lamp

2pcs Fixing tools

  • High grade bright LED headlight, bright enough to notice the road, especially suitable for riding at night
  • Sturdy high quality durable metal body, not easy to wobble and make noises
  • Retro look, this stylish headlight will go perfect with your vintage- style bike
  • Include mounting bracket, easy to install, no modification required
  • Waterproof design,160° visual angle, on/ off switch on the top, easy to use

Latest Reviews

View all