At Six Star Review, we pride ourselves on thorough and objective evaluations based on quality, value, price, customer support, ease of use, and durability. Today, we shine a light on the Trail EVO by Outbound Lighting, a company dedicated to creating some of the best cycling front lights in the industry.
Founded in 2017 in Chicago, Illinois, Outbound Lighting was established by an engineer with a background in automotive lighting technology. Their mission is simple: to bring professional-grade lighting to the cycling world, targeting avid mountain bikers and night riders who demand exceptional performance. By applying automotive lighting principles to their designs, Outbound Lighting has developed a loyal following among cyclists who value innovation, reliability, and practicality.
Quality: 5.5/6
When it comes to quality, Outbound Lighting has set a high standard. These lights are designed to handle the toughest conditions mountain bikers encounter—from rocky descents to muddy trails and everything in between. The sturdy build ensures that the light won’t falter during high-impact rides, and the USB-C charging port is a welcome touch for those who value modern connectivity. The light output is bright, consistent, and tailored for excellent trail illumination. The beam pattern is expertly engineered, providing a broad, even spread of light that makes night rides safer and more enjoyable. Whether you’re racing or tackling an epic adventure, these lights are built to handle it all.
Value: 5/6
Value is about more than just the price; it’s about what you get for your money. Outbound Lighting shines in this category because of its exceptional performance and reliability. The light output meets or exceeds the advertised lumens, and the battery life holds up even under extended use. Riders who prioritize reliability and brightness will appreciate the investment, as these lights deliver consistently, even in harsh conditions. Over time, the value becomes apparent as the lights continue to perform without degradation, making them a worthwhile addition to any cyclist’s gear. However, for casual riders or those who don’t frequently ride at night, the high price tag may be harder to justify.
Price: 4/6
Let’s address the elephant in the room—the price. Outbound Lighting’s front lights are not cheap, but premium products rarely are. They cater to serious cyclists who are willing to pay for top-tier performance and durability. While the price may deter budget-conscious buyers, those who invest in these lights will likely find the cost justified by the exceptional quality and longevity. Still, we’d love to see a mid-range option for riders who don’t need bombproof durability but still want a reliable and bright light for occasional night rides.
Customer Support: 3.5/6
Outbound Lighting’s customer support is functional but not outstanding. While they respond promptly to inquiries, our experience revealed a significant gap in their attention to mounting options. With cycling components evolving rapidly, it’s disappointing that the provided mounts only fit traditional round handlebars. This oversight limits the lights’ compatibility with newer bikes featuring integrated bar-stem designs. Additionally, the weight of the light further restricts alternative mounting options. After a year of use, we expected more innovation in this area, especially since mounting flexibility is crucial for many riders. Despite these shortcomings, the company’s support team remains approachable and professional.
Ease of Use: 4.5/6
If your bike setup is compatible, using these lights is a breeze. The mounting system is straightforward, and once installed, the light functions flawlessly. The intuitive design makes it easy to adjust the angle of the beam, ensuring optimal trail illumination. However, the ease of use diminishes significantly if your bike has a non-standard handlebar setup. Riders with modern integrated bar-stem combos may find themselves improvising a solution or unable to use the light altogether. For those with compatible handlebars, however, the experience is seamless, from installation to operation.
Durability: 6/6
Durability is where Outbound Lighting truly excels. These lights are built to withstand the rigors of mountain biking, including harsh weather, impacts, and demanding trails. Even after a year of regular use, our test unit showed no signs of wear or performance degradation. The rugged construction ensures that the light remains reliable ride after ride, making it a standout choice for cyclists who push their gear to the limit. This level of durability not only justifies the price but also gives riders peace of mind during long adventures in remote locations.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Outbound Lighting offers an excellent product with high-quality craftsmanship, powerful light output, and industry-leading durability. While the price is steep and the mounting system leaves room for improvement, this light remains our go-to for reliable night rides. Its robust performance and thoughtful design make it an invaluable tool for serious cyclists.
Final Score: 4.5/6 Stars
If you’re looking for a bombproof light for technical night rides and can work around the mounting limitations, we highly recommend giving Outbound Lighting a try. Their commitment to quality and performance is evident, and their lights will undoubtedly illuminate your cycling adventures for years to come.
