Full On Lighting MB6 Bike Light - Frequently Asked Questions

Product Features & Specifications:

Q: What is the lumen output of your bike lights, and how do I choose the right brightness for my needs?

A: Our MB6 outputs over 6000 peak lumens in our Active Light Control (ALC) mode.  For many situations it’s best to use the light in its active mode and it will autonomously control brightness and beam shape based on your speed.  This is a great feature as it allows you to focus on riding and the light takes care of itself.  There are also 3 manual modes:

    • Hangout mode (275 lumens), which uses only the peripheral beam.  It’s great for getting ready in the lot, mid ride breaks chatting with friends, or a post ride brew and packing up.

    • Manual low (1500 lumens), which is great for slower climbs.  This will reduce power consumption slightly compared to ALC for shorter climbs and can be good for things other than riding.  

    • Manual high (3800 lumens), which is a great mode for most riding at moderate speeds, although ALC can provide much higher light output for high speed.

Q: Why did you choose a separate battery design for the MB6?

A: We prioritized the best possible night riding experience. For lights exceeding 2500 lumens, a separate battery becomes crucial for managing weight and minimizing the size of the light itself. This design allows the MB6 to be lightweight for helmet mounting while delivering the power and runtime needed for demanding trails. Integrated batteries at this power level often become too bulky for helmets and/or compromise on performance.  For more indepth details check out our blog post here.

Q: Is a cabled light an outdated approach?

A: No.  While integrated battery lights offer simplicity, it’s important to know they come with compromises.. If a light is intended for helmet mounting, the runtime and/or lumen output and/or illuminated area will be low in order to keep the weight low.  For higher output integrated battery lights, they become bulky and are only appropriate for handlebar mounting, which then makes riders need to have a smaller helmet mounted light to see where they want to go.  The separate battery of the MB6 allows for optimal weight distribution and flexibility.  It’s great for helmet or handlebar mounting. It also enables extended run times and better heat management, crucial for maintaining high performance and long term reliability.

Q: Why is 6000 lumens the target output for the MB6?

A: Through rigorous testing using a variety of our local trails we found 6000 lumens to be the ideal peak output for both high-speed flow trails and technical descents. Our goal was to enable riding at daytime speeds, which meant developing our optic to provide full field of view illumination.  The larger the area you want to light the more lumens it takes to light it correctly.  It’s not about having a brighter hot spot, it’s about creating the conditions for good vision which is what we have optimized for.

Q: Should I believe your lumen output claims?

A: This is a great question.  We often see brands make lumen claims based on what the LEDs can ideally do. This sets a false output expectation as real world thermal, electrical and optical efficiencies need to be considered.  We often find that bike lights have claims that are about 30% higher than the actual output.  We’ve seen this in the commercial lighting industry, which went through the same problem with performance claims a decade ago.  As a result, there are well defined third party tests that can be done on lighting products.  The MB6 has been sent to an independent laboratory and third party photometry testing has been done on it.  We’ve seen the ANSI FL1 Standard be used to convey performance information on bike lights, but feel the standard encourages the wrong performance metrics and typical lighting industry testing is more appropriate to quantify performance.

Q: What do we say about comments like this:"You're missing depth with a one light setup regardless of how good it is. Two light sources create shadows in a way that makes it easier to judge distance and depth of features by creating better shadow profiles."?

A: Depth perception at night doesn’t work the same way as it does in daylight. While multiple light sources can create more shadow contrast, they don’t necessarily improve depth perception while riding. In fact, they can make it worse.

Here’s why:

Motion & Parallax Are More Important Than Shadows – At night, your brain relies far more on motion cues and changes in perspective than it does on shadows to judge depth. When you’re moving, terrain features shift relative to your position, providing the depth information you need.


Two Lights Often Create Competing Shadows – Helmet and handlebar lights are not perfectly aligned, they cast separate shadows that move independently, which can make the terrain appear more confusing rather than clearer.  If you only ever ride and look in a straight line then the two light approach works well.

Helmet-Mounted Lights Improve Definition – A well designed light mounted on your helmet follows your line of sight, preventing harsh foreground shadows while still allowing enough contrast for depth cues.  Helmet mounted lights also benefit from the stability of the rider's head, compared to the bouncing and rapid direction changes of a handlebar mounted light. 

Many riders assume they need two lights because that’s what they’ve always used, but once they try a well-designed single light like the MB6, they realize they aren’t ‘missing’ anything—except the hassle of managing two separate lights. 

Q: How does Full On Lighting provide better vision?

A: We’ve optimized the color temperature and color rendering index (CRI) of our LEDs, which enhances vision.  In particular, it improves contrast by sharpening edge definition and making terrain features stand out, especially in forests with warm tones, while providing enough color accuracy to distinguish roots, rocks, and dirt without washing out details—striking the ideal balance between visibility and natural contrast for night riding.  Also, see the next question for more details.

Q: Why is peripheral illumination so important for mountain biking and gravel riding?

A: Peripheral illumination is crucial for mountain biking and gravel riding because it enhances spatial awareness, reaction time, and speed by preventing tunnel vision and providing critical visual cues beyond your direct line of sight. By lighting up more of your surroundings, our brains process motion and depth faster, improving balance, line choice, and confidence—especially on loose surfaces, technical terrain, and fast descents.

Q: Is the MB6 water-resistant?

A: Yes, the MB6 light unit is designed for the worst winter riding conditions that we experience here in the temperate rainforests of Vancouver Island.

Q: What is the battery runtime of the MB6 on different settings?

    • Active Light Control: 2.5 hours typically(This typical runtime assumes an analog bike, with a mix of slow climbs, rolling terrain and fast descents.  E-Bike runtimes tend to be lower due to higher overall speeds and higher average lumen outputs).
    • Manual High (3800 lumens): 2 hours

    • Manual Low (1500 lumens): 6 hours

    • Manual Hangout Mode (275 lumens): 22 hours

Q: Does the MB6 get too hot when running manual high or ALC?

A: No.  The MB6 has an internal temperature sensor and will reduce light output if it becomes too hot to the touch (or too hot for the LEDs, which over time can reduce their output and lifetime).  This usually happens when riders leave the light in a high output mode and are not moving.  Some lights can be damaged by this and we have focused on ensuring the MB6 is smart enough to manage itself so the rider can focus on riding.

Mounting & Compatibility:

Q: How do I mount the light on my helmet?

A: The light comes standard with action camera mounting hardware, using flat and curved adhesive mounts for different helmet styles.  The beauty of the action camera approach is that there is a large ecosystem of accessories available.  We also include small, adhesive cable clips that are perfect for keeping the cable unobtrusive.  The separate battery fits in a backpack, fanny pack or riding jersey with back pockets. 

  • As our blog highlights, the helmet is the best mounting position because it moves with your head, sits higher for broader illumination, and is more stable than handlebars, which can bounce and aren't always pointed where you need to see. The MB6 is optimized for this position.

Q: Does using only one light compromise safety?

A: No. The MB6's ultra wide beam often eliminates the need for a second light. Having said that, just like we bring tools along for most of our rides, it’s good to have a small spare light in case of accidents.

Q: How do I bike mount your bike lights?

A: We offer a bike mount kit as an accessory, since we have found most riders prefer to use the light on their helmet.  The kit includes a stem spacer mount, 50cm USB cable, battery strap and adhesive cable clips. The stem spacer mount is ideal for modern trail and enduro and DH bikes.   For mounting to different handlebars, or garmin mounts, there are a lot of off the shelf options to tune to your setup.  Reach out if you need any assistance.

Battery & Charging:

Q: How long does it take to fully charge the battery? What type of charger is required?

A: The included charger will fully charge the battery in less than 2 hours.  Any USB charger can work, but some will charge really slowly.  This is why we choose to include a good charger so you won’t get left behind on last minute rides waiting for a battery charge.

Q: How should I properly care for and store the battery?

A: It’s a good idea to charge before storing the battery for more than a few months.   Storing the battery in a dry place and at room temperature is good practice. The lithium cells within the battery are robust and will handle being stored under all kinds of conditions and they discharge very slowly and can be stored for over a year without issue.

Q: What’s the screen on the battery for?

A: The screen shows the battery state of charge when the light is plugged in.  The screen will be off when the light is not plugged in, but pressing the button below the screen will turn it on for 6 seconds.

Q. Are the cells in your bike lights replaceable by the user?

A: No, the MB6 battery is not user-servicable. We expect the useful life of the battery to be over 10 years, so it shouldn’t be necessary. Contact us if there are any issues and we’ll help immediately.

Q: What is the green symbol on the battery screen? 

A: When the green symbol is present it means the battery is functioning in USB Power Delivery mode.  This symbol should be on anytime the light is plugged into the battery.  It is also on when the light is plugged into any Power Delivery charger.

Q: What are the electrical specs of the battery?

A: The battery uses four 21700 cells for a total capacity of 74Wh.  The details are listed on the underside of the battery.  

Q: Why does the battery use a USB type-C connector? 

A: The type-C USB connector has become one of the most common connectors for electronics devices. By using this connector and the Power Delivery standard we can provide all the power the MB6 will ever need and we can use off the shelf cables and we can power any other device up to 65W.  

Q: Is the battery water resistant? 

A: Yes. We’ve designed the battery to be in a fanny or hydration pack or to be mounted on a bike.  With that in mind it’s designed to withstand the rigours or rain, splashing through puddles  and gnarly bike wash stations.  

Operation & Modes:

Q: How do I turn the bike light on and off, and how do I switch between different light modes?

A: The MB6 has a simple interface.  Press the power button to turn on.  Press and hold the power button for 1 second to turn off. Press the button to cycle through hangout, manual low, manual high and the active light control modes

Q: What are the different light modes available, and when should I use each mode?

    • Active Light Control: Automatically adjusts brightness based on speed, providing optimal illumination without needing to manually switch between modes, unlike a traditional two-light setup.  Use this mode if you don’t want to think about your light.

    • Manual High: Consistent brightness for most higher speed riding conditions.  To be honest, we put this mode in for people who are initially skeptical about active mode.  We know once they try active mode, then they probably won't use manual high much.

    • Manual Low: Conserves battery for climbing or less technical sections.  This is also a good mode for doing things that aren’t riding.

    • Hangout Mode: Low-intensity light for hanging out.  It’s also really handy for working outside, walking the dog or camping.

Q: What does the indicator LED beside the button show?  It shows the mode of the light:

    • Red - Hangout mode

    • Amber - Manual low mode

    • Yellow - Manual high mode

    • Green - Active Light Control mode

Troubleshooting:

Q: My light is not turning on. What could be the issue, and how can I fix it?

A: Ensure the battery is properly connected and charged (check the OLED display on the battery for the green symbol).  Also check the USB cable for signs of visible damage.   If issues persist, or the green symbol isn’t present on the battery then contact us.

Q: My battery is not charging. What steps should I take to troubleshoot this?

A:  Check the USB-C cable and adapter, inspect the charging port on both the battery and the charger, and allow sufficient charging time. If still not charging, contact us.

Warranty & Support:

Q: What is the warranty on your bike lights?

A: We stand behind the MB6 100%. Every unit comes with a 3-year, bumper-to-bumper warranty covering defects in materials or workmanship.  We’re here to build a long term relationship with riders, so if there are any issues, at any time reach out and we will help as best we can.

Q: How can I contact customer support if I have questions or issues with my bike light?

A: Contact us at 1.833.838.5566, at support@fullonlighting.com, or through the contact form on our website.  

Q: What is your return or exchange policy for purchases from your website?

A: We have a 30 days return policy.  After this time, if you don’t like the light let us know and we’ll figure it out with you..

General Usage & Safety:

Q: How does your design improve safety during night rides?

A: By focusing on contrast, uniformity, and full field of view illumination, the MB6 provides riders with a more natural and comprehensive view of the trail. This reduces eye strain, improves depth perception, and enhances awareness of potential hazards, ultimately leading to safer and more confident night riding. We feel confident saying you will ride faster and more comfortably with this light than any other option ever made.

Q: Do I really need two lights for night riding?

A: Not really.  Although this was not our original goal, people have found they are more comfortable with one MB6 than their regular two light setup.  As stated earlier, it’s always a good idea to have a small spare light with you, just like we bring tools for mechanical issues while riding.