TOWILD CL1200 Front Bicycle Light Review
Cycling through Kanagawa at night, especially after a long day of riding, presents unique challenges. With winding, tree-lined paths and bustling urban roads, I needed a versatile, durable, and powerful front light. That’s where the TOWILD CL1200 front light (Amazon) comes in. Mounted on a KOM bracket with a wireless remote, it provides all the brightness and flexibility I need. Here’s why it has become an essential part of my setup.
Brightness and Battery Life: The Perfect Combo for Dark Paths
One of my main reasons for choosing the TOWILD CL1200 is the 1200-lumen brightness, which has been a game-changer on my ride home. There's a 3 km stretch that climbs uphill near my house, surrounded by overhanging trees. After a 95 km ride, I usually avoid the road and stick to the pavement. However, roots from the surrounding trees have cracked through the tarmac, creating unexpected obstacles. The CL1200 lights up these hazards with ease, allowing me to navigate the dark path safely and comfortably.
Photo: CL1200 light mounted on KOM bracket
USB-C Output: Charging Flexibility on the Go
The CL1200 has a 3100 mAh rechargeable battery that powers the light for hours. What’s even more useful is its USB-C output, which lets me charge my phone or any device on my bike. This feature has saved me on multiple occasions when my phone’s GPS drained the battery. Now, I can head out with peace of mind, knowing I have extra power at my fingertips.
Multiple Light Settings for Every Ride Condition
The TOWILD CL1200 offers several modes to adapt to different lighting needs and preserve battery life:
- High Mode (1200 lumens) – Maximum brightness for very dark conditions (1.5-2 hours runtime).
- Medium Mode (600 lumens) – Balanced brightness for extended visibility (3-4 hours runtime).
- Low Mode (300 lumens) – Great for urban areas, conserving battery life (8-10 hours runtime).
- Eco Mode (150 lumens) – Low-brightness option for well-lit paths (up to 15 hours runtime).
- Strobe/Flash Mode (1200 lumens) – Maximum visibility during daytime rides.
- Pulse/Daytime Flash Mode (600 lumens) – Gentler flashing option for extra visibility without being overly harsh.
For my ride home, I generally use Medium Mode and switch to High Mode with a quick press on the remote when I need extra illumination. For daytime riding, the Pulse Mode is perfect for visibility without disturbing oncoming traffic.
Photo: Handlebar mounted remote
Durability and Waterproofing
The TOWILD CL1200 is built to last with an IPX6 waterproof rating and a sturdy aluminum body that can handle the rigors of frequent cycling. I prefer accessories with aluminum construction since they tend to be more resilient, and the CL1200 hasn’t let me down. Even in heavy rain, this light stays dependable and effective.
Handy Remote and Versatile Mounting Options
The KOM bracket lets me center the light over the front wheel, which I find ideal for both balance and lighting angle. It’s compatible with GoPro mounts, so I can swap out my light with a GoPro during the day or carry my camera if I’m leaving my bike parked. Initially, I thought the remote was just an extra perk, but I now find it essential—it allows me to switch modes quickly without reaching for the light itself.
After using the unit for a year, I’ve moved it from the KOM bracket to the handlebars for easier access, but I still appreciate the compact and functional design. The only improvement I’d suggest is a way to mount the remote on top of the drops for quicker access, but this is a minor wish rather than a flaw.
Photo: Product shot
Final Thoughts: A Must-Have for Serious Cyclists
The TOWILD CL1200 front light (Amazon) has made night rides much safer and more enjoyable. Whether I’m navigating dark paths or needing an extra power source for my phone, this light has proven to be reliable and highly functional. I can wholeheartedly recommend it to any cyclist who rides in varied conditions and values a durable, multi-functional light.
Rear light
Update
- TOWILD CL1600 and TOWILD Dlite1800 models also available with even more Lumens!
