Topeak Taillux 100 USB Rear Light review

The Topeak Taillux 100 USB is a bright rear light with decent run time considering its low weight and price.

You move through the four brightness modes by pressing a button at the end of the light, which occasionally proved overly sensitive.

It stayed in place in several mounting positions and survived rainy and muddy conditions.

Topeak Taillux 100 USB specifications and details

The Topeak Taillux 100 USB has a claimed maximum output of 100 lumens. This is on par with the best rear bike lights for day and night time use in its price category.

It holds nine LEDs in its rectangular polymer housing. The three brightest bulbs run vertically through the centre. Three less powerful LEDs sit on each side.

Thanks to this structure, Topeak says the Taillux 100 USB has 220 degrees of visibility.

Topeak Taillux 100 USB performance

To set up the Topeak Taillux 100 USB, all you need to do is connect to the mains or a computer with its USB-C cable.

There are no apps, ambient light sensors or bike computer connections here.

It takes about three hours to charge from flat to full battery.

You can fit the Taillux 100 USB to your bike, helmet or saddlebag. It comes with adaptors and different size silicone straps to fit round and aero seatposts.

Using the shorter strap and round seatpost mount, the rear light will attach to a seatstay. This is helpful if, for example, a saddlepack covers the seatpost.

Another option is the mounting clip, which can hook under loops on a saddlebag or pannier bag.

Turned horizontally, you can also strap the Topeak Taillux 100 USB to the back of your helmet.

The Topeak Taillux 100 USB has four non-adjustable modes, which cover the light conditions most people are likely to ride in.

A press down on the on/off button switches on the light. A shorter press switches between the modes.

However, the button is quite sensitive. I accidentally switched the light back after finishing a ride when I put my bike away.

The tacky feel of the plastic on/off button and USB-C cover doesn't shout quality. But in wet and mucky conditions, neither seemed to let in water or dirt.

In the constant setting, the Taillux 100 USB hits its top, claimed 100-lumen output. This may be too bright for built-up areas and run time dropped to 2.5 hours.

So, it’s best to save this for when you want to be as visible as possible for short spells – for example, when riding in the pitch dark or fog.

The blinking and constant setting is still eye-catching at night and during the day, but lasts a couple of hours longer.

To be more economic, use the mode that alternates between blinking and constant – I eked out 10 hours this way. The blinking mode is claimed to last for 30 hours, but is a bit dim for night riding.

If I wanted a rear light to use for a week’s commuting without recharging, I’d consider investing in one with better battery life.

Topeak Taillux 100 USB bottom line

If you just want a rear light that helps you be seen in different light levels, the Topeak Taillux 100 USB is a great option. It is bright, dependable and good value.

What it lacks in clever tech, it makes up for with ease of use and multiple mounting options.