KNOG Big Cobber Rear Light Review: In-Depth Video & Day/Night Light Mode Test
Video: KNOG Big Cobber Rear Light, Bianchi Infinito.
My brand-new, shiny rear light! My decision to buy the Knog Big Cobber Rear Light was heavily influenced by the informative Japanese video below. After hours of searching for a video that demonstrated all the light modes in both day and night conditions, I finally found this gem. Rather than reinvent the wheel, I’ve embedded this excellent video here.
- Video Title (JP): このテールライトがスゴイ！自転車の安全を高めよう！
- Video Title: This tail light is amazing! Let's improve bicycle safety!
- Channel (JP): マルチ・ポテンシャライト.
- Channel: Multi Potentialite
- KNOG Big Cobber - Rear (Amazon)
- KNOG Big Cobber - Front (Amazon)
Modes Reviewed in the Video. At day, night, close up, and at distance.
- Max 160LM 2.0hr
- Mid 60LM 3.5hr
- Steady Pulse 270LM 2.5hr
- Flash 270LM 6.5hr
- Rolling Flash 110LM 5.5hr <<< This mode is why I purchased this light.
- Side Flash 170LM 2.0hr
- Disco Flash 140LM 5.0hr
- Eco Flash 15LM 100.0hr
Features that prompted my purchase
- 330º of light
- Really awesome looking Rolling Flash Mode that will run for 5.5 Hrs
- 110LM of rolling flash mode
Review Cons:
- Unique USB Connection: Unfortunately, KNOG has opted for a unique USB mounting approach, unlike the standard USB 2 or 3 connections common on most bike lights. This choice complicates the charging process, as I can't simply connect it to my standard multi-port USB setup (a Pyle PC0860 rack-mounted power distributor).
- Exposed Connectors: The USB connector protrudes from the light's body, exposing all four gold connectors to elements like rain, sweat, and road debris. Over time, I worry this could lead to corrosion. There’s also a concerning amount of flexibility in the connection point; accidentally bumping the light while charging could cause the connector to pull out, risking permanent damage to the casing.
- Unreliable Mounting Mechanism: Securing the light to its bike mount is tricky. It often requires multiple attempts to connect properly, which isn’t ideal, especially when preparing for an early morning ride. It also lacks a reassuring "click" when attaching, which leaves you guessing whether it's fully secure.
Review Pros:
- Outstanding Wide Angle Visibility: Unlike my previous rear lights, which offered a narrow viewing angle, this light provides excellent all-around visibility—essential for cycling through Tokyo before dawn and after sunset. The increased side visibility greatly enhances my safety in low-light conditions.
- Effective Rolling Flash Mode: The rolling flash mode is phenomenal. Despite some durability concerns, the added visibility and peace of mind are worth it. It significantly increases my confidence on the road, as I feel that drivers notice me more quickly and from farther away. Anecdotally, cars seem to pass at a safer distance compared to when I used my previous light
- Convenient Recharge Indicator: When plugged in, a useful indicator shows the charging status—red while charging, and green when complete. However, I feel the design missed an opportunity by not including a battery level indicator. A few extra LEDs could display remaining power or the current mode, which would add convenience and ease of use for the price.
On the road:
- I've ridden from Machida to Ginza at 5am, and Ginza to Machida leaving at 5pm. Very, very impressed so far. I've seen xmas trees lit up less. It's very reassuring to have at a T-Junction while you wait for the lights to turn with its excellent rear and side view lighting. That ride was 2.25 hours and no noticeable dimming of the unit, as should have been the case as it is listed as lasting 5.5 Hrs in that mode. I got caught in a rare unexpected downpour. The USB contacts had water and road grime on them.
Conclusion:
- Highly recommended for nighttime city cycling, this light offers an exceptional and unique viewing angle. However, the USB connection and bicycle mount design could be improved.
- Safety 10/10.
- Build 8/10.
