Dynamo lighting systems of today consist of 3 parts; the front wheel (hub, spokes and rim), the front light and the rear light. It will matter what type of braking system you have to determine what your dynamo hub type will be. There is minimal resistance and noise with the hubs listed below unlike the dynamos of the past! We think its best to match your budget with your cycling needs, rather than overspending for something that will be unnecessary for your everyday needs.
Below is a list of sample builds we can create for you. The prices, tech talk, and choice can be overwhelming but its worth every penny for the commuter or long distance rider. We are happy to discuss any of these options with you. Please do not hesitate to stop by, email or call with all questions. We’d hate to sell you something was any more or less than what you need.
Of course, these are only sample builds we’ve put together for your convenience. Let us know if there is something you’d like in particular. We’re happy to accommodate most lacing patterns and component requests.
Simple descriptions and definitions:
DB stands for double butted. They're lighter and stronger. Straight gauge spokes are cheaper, but we prefer not to build with them because they don't last as long and are not as durable. Spoke prices are quoted for rim drilling (usually 32 or 36 hole).
Shimano S701: Smaller, lighter and easier rotating hub than the other higher end Shimano dynamos. Lower output, so no USB charging or running of multiple front or rear lights.
Sanyo H27: Super cheap, super simple. Only available for rim brake bikes. Output just meets German regulation to support front and rear LEDs. Not suitable for charging devices in addition to lighting.
Shimano 3R35: Shimano’s roller brake model. Works with USB charging units.
Spanninga Pixeo: Small and simple fender mounted taillight. Has an on/off function as well as a light sensor to come on automatically.
B&M Lumotec IQ: One of B&M’s brightest lights. Also very compact. 80 Lux.
B&M Brakeline Plus: Rack mounted taillight. Has a function where it will flicker as you are coming to a stop to accentuate that you are coming to a stop.
B&M Lumotec Fly: Good choice for a daily commuter, not for all out brightness, but because it has a great beam spread and because of that it has excellent daytime visibility.
B&M Secula: Nicer taillight with a standlight function. Has a really wide beam spread. Ideal for a commuter with full coverage fenders.
Supernova Infinity 8: The Infinity 8 has a rotating disc on one side; turning it allows the magnet to spin with the coils so there's no magnetic resistance. Running on triple sealed bearings, the Infinity is a smoothrunning hub all the time and when you turn off the generator it'll spin free, just like a standard front hub.
Supernova E2: Only compatible with Supernova lights. Not cross compatible.
Luxos U: B&M’s brightest headlight. Also has a built in USB port for all of your device charging needs. Whoop.
Son28: There are a ton of iterations of this hub that make it pretty ideal for a bunch of different setups. They make a 15mm thruaxle version for mountain bikes, a wide body version that is slightly heavier (also builds a stronger wheel), 6bolt, centerlock and rim brake versions. All of them vary in cost and color options, but generally are in the 250-350 dollar range. They also make the original style/shape for around 200 dollars in polished silver.