Cateye Ampp800 Review
-
Total rating
Summary
The Cateye AMPP800 is a durable and versatile 800-lumen bike light ideal for urban commuters and casual trail riders, offering multiple beam modes and excellent visibility, though its broad beam pattern may not suit technical mountain biking.
Pros
- Bright 800-lumen output for excellent visibility.
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Multiple beam modes to suit different conditions.
- Long-lasting battery life, up to 30 hours in flash mode.
- Easy-to-use handlebar mount system.
Cons
- The beam pattern could be more focused for off-road use.
- USB charging port lacks a cover, potentially exposing it to moisture.
- Limited runtime at maximum brightness setting.
- Not the most budget-friendly option for casual riders.
User Review
( votes)The Cateye AMPP800 is a bike light designed for cyclists who want reliable, bright illumination while riding in low-light conditions. Cateye has built the AMPP800 around a sleek and durable aluminium body to provide cyclists with safety and functionality during commutes or dark trail rides.
The 800 in its name refers to the powerful 800 lumens, but it also has multiple beam modes which balance brightness with battery life to suit various cycling needs. Cateye is renowned for creating practical and user-friendly cycling accessories, and the AMPP800 is no exception.
Compact and versatile, this bike light suits urban riders, mountain bikers, and commuters who want a no-nonsense lighting solution. However, it is better suited to road use.
What Is The Cateye AMPP800?
The Cateye AMPP800 is a high-performance rechargeable bike light with a strong 800-lumen output. Its versatility means it can be used for both urban environments and trail use.
Cateye has integrated several thoughtful features into the AMPP800, including an easy-to-mount bracket, multiple lighting modes, and a long-lasting battery. Its aluminium construction makes it durable, so it should last a while and even withstand the odd crash.
Features
The light’s powerful output provides ample illumination for various conditions. The light offers five distinct modes:
- High (800 lumens): 1.5-hour runtime.
- Middle (400 lumens): 2-hour runtime.
- Low (200 lumens): 4-hour runtime.
- Daytime HyperFlash: 30-hour runtime.
- Flashing: 50-hour runtime.
Switching between modes is simple, thanks to an intuitive button on top of the light. The button is easy to locate even while wearing gloves, so you can quickly change the settings while you ride.
Another highlight is the battery life. While the high mode offers only 1.5 hours of runtime, the lower settings and flashing modes can last for several hours, providing peace of mind that it will last until you get home.
The AMPP800 has a wide-angle lens, which enhances visibility by spreading light across a broad area. This is particularly useful when riding around the city where you want to be seen from the side.
However, the beam pattern may feel too dispersed for some mountain biking scenarios. Sometimes, you need a more focused beam for better depth perception on trails at night.
I really like the AMPP800’s durability. Its aluminium body resists impacts and bad weather conditions, making it suitable for year-round use. However, the lack of a USB port cover could be a drawback, as it exposes the charging port to dust and moisture, but it hasn’t caused me any problems yet.
Performance
In terms of performance, the AMPP800 is best in urban and commuter settings. Its brightness makes you visible to other road users and pedestrians even when you’re in the dark and bad weather at the same time. The wide-angle lens further enhances safety by providing excellent peripheral visibility, essential during city commutes.
While driving home one night, I saw my wife riding along our road using her Cateye AMPP800. I was surprised by how effectively it made her stand out in the dark and how much of the road was lit up ahead, which gave me confidence that it was up to the job.
If you’re a mountain biker wanting to hit the trails at night, the AMPP800 is adequate, but there are better models on the market. While the brightness is sufficient, the beam pattern is relatively broad.
It lacks the focused intensity preferred by mountain bikers blasting through forests. This makes it better suited for general visibility rather than detailed terrain spotting. Therefore, you may want to use an additional, more focused bike light attached to your helmet or handlebars.
The runtime on high mode is somewhat limiting for extended rides if you have it on its highest level, but it works well for shorter commutes or evening rides. Lower modes provide more substantial battery life, allowing you to adjust brightness based on your needs.
The power button doubles as the battery indicator: blue indicates +50% battery life remaining, yellow is between 50-30%, and red is 30-0%. You can mount the AMPP800 to your helmet, which is a nice touch, but you cannot see the battery life indicator while it sits on top of your head, which is something to consider.
Charging is straightforward with the included USB cable, and the battery recharges fully in approximately 4 hours.
Living With The Cateye AMPP800
Using the Cateye AMPP800 daily is hassle-free. Its compact design doesn’t clutter your handlebars, and the mounting system is secure and easy to use.
Installing or removing the light takes seconds, making it convenient for cyclists who frequently switch between bikes or need to charge the light indoors. I always keep the mounting system on my ebike, so it’s ready to go.
One of the standout aspects of living with the AMPP800 is its versatility. The variety of beam modes ensures you can use it in different environments and riding conditions.
For commuters, the daytime HyperFlash mode offers an extended runtime while enhancing visibility in daylight. For nighttime rides, the high and middle modes provide more than enough illumination to light the road ahead.
Final Verdict
The Cateye AMPP800 is a reliable and versatile bike light primarily for urban commuters and casual trail riders. Its 800-lumen output, multiple beam modes, and durable construction make it an excellent option for cyclists who want a practical and high-performing light.
While the beam pattern may not satisfy all mountain bikers, the AMPP800 excels on the road, where visibility and safety are a priority. Its compact design, user-friendliness, and long-lasting battery life ensure it meets the needs of most cyclists.
For those who prioritize reliability and ease of use over specialized features, the Cateye AMPP800 is a solid choice. However, riders who need focused beams for technical trails or extended runtimes at maximum brightness may want to choose something else.
In conclusion, the Cateye AMPP800 balances performance and practicality, offering a dependable lighting solution for everyday cyclists.
Tom Fortune has been reviewing cycling products for several years from his home in the French Alps. As the owner of mtb-threads.com, he mainly reviews mountain bike products but also reviews road cycling products independently.
