Gloworm X1

The Gloworm X1 consists of a single 950 lumen LED headlamp that can attach either to the (optional) slim handlebar mount or to an equally skinny helmet mount. The neat, CNC bar clamp almost seems overkill when everyone else is happy with O-rings, though it does cost extra. Nevertheless, the headlamp and even the two-cell battery are small and light enough to happily both sit on bars or stem un-noticed. This is the Mk1, but by the time you read this there should be a Mk2 version out, with 100 more lumens and programmable modes too.

There’s a (hardwired) remote cable coming out of the head unit, which features a small button at the end of it, backed by a velcro pad to stick it onto your bars. You’ll need a matching bit of velcro on your bars to stick it to or the button just floats in mid-air. The velcro backing can also attach to random bits of clothing in transit, some of which pulled the backing off ours entirely, leaving a naked switch and wires.

In use, the light gives up to 2hrs on high and plenty more on low. With the bar mounted button, it’s easy to run the light lower or higher depending on the trail and the speed, so we rarely ran completely out of juice. The gas gauge on the battery indicates when 80% and 40% levels are reached, so it’s easy to adjust the beam to suit the ride.

Overall: It’s tiny and it’s light. We’d love a removable/replaceable switch though and we look forward to seeing the Mk2.

Review Info