Early this morning, Kerry MacPhee became the first woman and third rider overall to finish the 2026 Highland Trail 550, overcoming snow, hallucinations, and a tumble into a river. Find photos and details from her impressive ride here...The post Kerry MacPhee Is First Woman and Third Overall at 2026 Highland Trail 550 appeared first on BIKEPACKING.com.

ENVEs new G SES 6.7 Pro wheelset is the widest we've ever seen, measuring a whopping 35mm internally, doubling down on the current wider-is-better trend for gravel-optimised rims. It's also notable for its depth, with 60mm-deep front and 67mm-deep rear rims, rendering it illegal for use in UCI road racing events. The dimensions overshadow the current deepest gravel rim Zipp offers (the 54mm-deep 303 XPLR), which ENVE says it has benchmarked against in testing. The complete range comprises three models the G SES 4.5 and 4.5 Pro have a contemporary 30mm inner-rim-width hookless profile, and 49mm (front) and 55mm (rear) depths. Weve seen gravel racing move to ever-wider tyres, so it makes sense for new wheels to accommodate those sizes. The trends at The Traka 2026 seemed to back that up, with a few as-yet unreleased wheelsets on the way sporting what look to be much wider rims than usual such as the Newmen wheels on Lukas Pstlberger's Rose Backroad FF. Read more: Best gravel wheels in 2026: top-rated gravel wheelsets and buying advice Wider rims create a "huge opportunity" ENVE's testing pitched the 4.5 and 6.7 against Zipp's 303 XPLR, with 52mm tyres at 32kph and 50kph. Enve ENVE says the move towards greater rim widths has given it a "huge aerodynamic opportunity"with both the very deep 6.7 wheels and the 4.5 Pros. It has tested the 6.7 and the 4.5 against the current benchmark, Zipps 303 XPLR, running a 52mm ENVE Hex gravel tyre. ENVE claims the 6.7s were between 1.5 and 15 watts more efficient across a wide range of yaw angles, tested at 32kph and 50kph, while the 4.5s tested at 0.25 and 6 watts faster. Who can run the 6.7 Pro? With a 60mm-deep front and 67mm-deep rear, the G SES 6.7 Pro is ENVE's most aero gravel wheel to date. Enve ENVE says the 6.7s massive internal width is a good match for todays modern wider gravel tyres. It recommends tyres of 44mm and above. Remember, it wasn't long ago that 40mm was considered optimal for gravel racing. The brand say the new wheels are all tested to its own tyre-retention standards, which on this evidence seem to be somewhat at odds with the recommendations of some tyre makers, and most importantly, those of the ETRTO (European Tyre and Rim Technical Organisation). ENVE says its testing shows that if the difference between inner rim width and tyre width is below 10mm, there is a higher probability of pinch flats. This means a 44mm tyre (for example) on the 35mm internal rim width isnt the optimal way to run the 6.7s. Zipps 303 XPLR, at 32mm, is claimed to be compatible with 40mm tyres and above, but I dont think either of these wide designs are at their optimum unless you opt for much bigger tyres. In turn, this brings a whole new headache over which bikes theyll fit. Tyre brand WTB says a 35mm inner-width rim is not recommended to be used with any tyre below 47mm, and even then, at 47mm it's only described as compatible, not optimal. For that, it suggests a minimum tyre width of 55mm (2.2in). The Continental Dubnital is one of the latest generation of lightweight XC tyres that the 6.7 Pro looks to be ready for. Simon von Bromley / Our Media Continental, reflecting the ETRTO's recommendations, states that for an internal rim width range of 31-35mm, a tyre of between 58-83mm should be used. However, the ETRTO standards havent been updated since 2024, so some revisions may allow for this discrepancy. Continental's tyre-rim compatibility chart according to ETRTO standards. Continental With current recommendations from standards bodies and tyre makers, that leaves the G SES 6.7 Pro compatible with only a few of the latest large gravel tyres or XC mountain bike tyres. I asked ENVE for comment and Jake Pantone, VP of product and brand, explained the ETRTO offers a recommendation when it comes to rim width to tire width compatibility, "but this isn't a hard compatibility standard", stating they "were very curious to understand what the implications might be for running a large inner rim width-to-tyre width delta. "We performed our standard blow-off testing in our lab with tyres ranging from sub-40mm to up to 52mm," he said. "G SES rims have a maximum tire pressure of 50psi / 3.4 BAR, [and] in order for a tyre to pass testing, it must achieve a max pressure of 90psi /6.2 BAR without blowing off." Pantone said the margin for safety is 1.8-times the maximum rated pressure on the rim. "We tested all ENVE's tyres, and quite a few competitor tyres and didn't experience a single blow off [in the 1.8-times pressure range]." Pantone, who took part in The Traka himself, also said he (alongside "most" of ENVE's sponsored athletes) was running G SES 4.5 or 6.7 wheels at 15-25psi at the event, across a range of tyres between 44 and 55 mm wide below the ETRTO's recommended limit. Perhaps, then, bearing in mind ENVE's testing both in the lab and in the field, the ETRTO standards need to be refined, especially with the recent increase in tyre dimensions both in gravel and on the road. "Lest I sound too cavalier about ETRTO, I would like to communicate that we do follow ETRTO dimensional specifications explicitly, when it comes to tubeless rim dimensions, hooked beads, and other critical rim dimensions," he added. "These dimensions do promise to ensure maximised tubeless performance, tyre compatibility, and therefore safety." For now, ENVE has been the first wheel builder to bring a such a wide hookless aero gravel rim to market, but as The Traka showed, it looks as if it might be the first in a coming trend. New ENVE G Series range details ENVE's G SES 4.5 Pro pairs a 49mm-deep front with a 55mm-deep rear rim. Alexey / Enve The three new wheelsets all feature ENVEs own Innerdrive hubsets. The G SES 4.5 features the standard 362g Innerdrive hubset; on the 4.5 Pro and 6.7 Pro, the hubs are upgraded to the Pro version, complete with a lightweight body and ceramic bearings that help shave 60g from the weight at 281g (claimed). All three models come with recommended tyre widths between 44 and 52mm. The G SES 4.5 shares the same rims as the 4.5 Pro, but comes with standard hubs and weighs in at 1,565g a pair. Enve The G SES 4.5 comes with a claimed weight of 725g for the 49mm-deep front wheel and 840g for the 55mm-deep rear. The wheels are priced at 3,199 / $2,800 / 3,599. The G SES 4.5 Pro has a 49mm-deep front and 55mm-deep rear rim, laced with Alpina Ultralite spokes to ceramic-bearing equipped hubs. Enve The G SES 4.5 Pro comes with a claimed weight of 685g for the 49mm-deep front wheel and 795g for the rear, with a 3,499 / $3,100 / 3,899 price. The flagship G SES 6.7 Pros weigh in at 735g for the 60mm-deep front and 845g for the 67mm-deep rear, with the same 3,499 / $3,100 / 3,899 price as the 4.5 Pro.

Tim Merlier was delighted to throw his arms up in celebration on Wednesday as he took a dominant sprint victory in stage one of the Tour de Hongrie. The Belgian was finishing just his fifth race day of the season, but his already top of the podium for the third time and will wear the yellow jersey o...

For the record: I have only ever tried to act professionally towards CllrElisaODonovan despite her very unprofessional approach towards me when Ive sent her a request for comment, and she didnt like my coverage of her opposition to active travel routes or different elements of them.I had hoped that Cllr ODonovan had stopped making sweeping claims about me with no backing. But, regrettably, shes continued to make sweeping claims on social media this week. I cannot be fully sure what her issue is with me or this website, but a lot of it seems to stem from her problem with this website publishing articles reporting facts and analysing her objection to Limericks South Circular Road active travel project, as it is currently planned, and more minor objections to safety-focused corner narrowing on another project. Cllr ODonovan has claimed that Im working in cahoots with the Limrick Cycling Campaign on this. If she took a second away from her battles with such groups, she might realise that the Limrick Cycling Campaign actually shares her scepticism about the use of bollards in the project the difference is that they, unlike her, did not spread misinformation about the project or profess total opposition to it. Lets be clear here: Cllr ODonovan made no issue of the Limerick Leader reporting that she was completely opposed to the cycle route or reporting that she claimed that its a new scheme. She developed issues when I re-reported it and added a clearer context that the project follows the planning conditions set by her fellow councillors. So, claiming it was a new scheme was a misrepresentation (more details and links to the relevant coverage are below). Following this, she even claimed that the council were not providing detailed drawings for the project just weeks after she posted a photo of a public information event where the detailed design was shown.This week, Cllr ODonovan claimed on X:No I wont click on an Irish cycle blog post. They have previously made complaints about me and made unsubstantiated claims in blog posts about my family membersThis is the full context to the above Cllr ODonovan posting about the University Hospital Kerry bike hub and how she thinks the spending should be scrutinised. Among others who asked her to consider her position or other facts, the Safe Cycling Ireland account then shared an IrishCycle.com article covering the spending. As far as I can tell, IrishCycle.com has never included unsubstantiated claims about Cllr ODonovans family. To be clear: IrishCycle.com is happy to correct any errors in its articles, but no complaint has been received to substantiate Cllr ODonovans claim of unsubstantiated claims. Just vague comments made on public forums.Because of these types of vague, disparaging comments and apparent attempts at gaslighting or abuse, such as Im embarrassed for you. Pathetic (see below for context), I took the unusual position of making two complaints. There were also messages posted about and to me from some of her supporters, indicating that at least similar, if not worse, claims were possibly being made about me behind closed doors or via public channels, which I am unaware of.The complaint was sent to her party, the Social Democrats, and to Limerick City and County Council. The party one went nowhere as far as I know, and the council wanted me to put the complaint in a different format in PDF form on reflection, I decided not to resubmit that complaint, as I thought having something on record with both might be good enough for her to stop making actual, unsubstantiated claims about me. For clarity, I am including the full complaint here I hope it clears things up: ***STARTS***I would like to make a complaint about CllrElisaODonovans unprofessional behaviour towards me, which seems to fall short of what would be expected from a councillor from any party.I am a journalist who runs the small, transport-focused publication IrishCycle.com, which includes active travel routes in Limerick. Within the last month, Ive publishedthree articles about CllrODonovanspreading misinformationabout theSouth Circular Road Active Travel project. These are as follows two news articles followed by a comment and analysisarticle:Soc Dems cllr completely opposed to cycle route claiming its a new scheme when project follows planning condition set by councillorshttps://irishcycle.com/2025/05/09/social-democrat-cllr-completely-opposed-to-cycle-route-claiming-its-a-new-scheme-when-project-follows-planning-condition-set-by-councillorsLimerick councillor continues to spread misinformation on a key active travel routehttps://irishcycle.com/2025/06/06/limerick-councillor-continues-to-spread-misinformation-on-a-key-active-travel-route/Why is a Limerick councillor who says she supports active travel spreading misinformation on a key project?https://irishcycle.com/2025/06/11/why-is-a-limerick-councillor-who-says-she-supports-active-travel-spreading-misinformation-on-a-key-project/The facts outlined in my articlesare supported by my previous professional coverage of the South Circular Road Active Travel projects Part 8 proceedings, statements from the council via its press office and the councils legal advice on the Part 8 proceedings as published by local media.When I contacted CllrODonovanfor comment on the first article, on May 8th at 21:11, I wrote:Good eveningElisa,Ive seen the Limerick Post article and your Facebook posts outlining your opposition to theSouth Circular Road as approved by councillors after a lengthy Part 8 process.Can you please outline why you think the project as it stands is unworkable?I hope to cover this tomorrow or in the next fewdays.Thanks,CianCllrODonovanreplied May 8th 2025 at 21:22 as follows:Oh Cian Im embarrassed for you. Pathetic. If the limerick cycling campaign want to speak to me on this they can speak to me directly but of course they wont as they are cowards. I proposed this scheme by the way Cian but Im sure [name of individual who had noting to do with the enail removed] left that out.Ive blocked you on social media. Dont ever contact me againFor clarity: I regularly cover what councillors and other politicians say about active travel routes and other projects, and I was not working as an intermediary of the Limerick Cycling Campaign. To respect her wishes I did not contact her again, but to abideby journalistnorms, I checked with the Social Democrats press office if there was confusion about my questions etc and if she wanted to comment, there was no reply.Last week, when CllrODonovancontinuedto spread information about the South Circular Road project, I followed up with another news article and contacted theSocial Democrats press office again. They confirmed by phone that they had received my request, but they did not respond tothe request forcomment by the time given.On a video posted to Instagram yesterday, CllrODonovansaid:Over the weekend a second article came out about me in a publication in relation to me spreading misinformation [added context: at this point she signals sarcastic air quotes with her hand and contunes]on that South Circular Road active travel scheme and that led many men on Twitter [now X] calling me a liar. I just want to say that, look, Im so used to this, this is being purposefully being done to discredit me, so, I have just written a comment which Im going to put in the next post in relation to this. All I am asking for in relation to this scheme, I dont know how this is misinformation, all I am asking is for better collaboration between the active travel team and the community, and I am asking for information on the scheme. [added context: quote my transcript of her audio]Within the above, there is an unnamed but clear reference to the IrishCycle.com article published late on Friday afternoon. She also published a written statement, which further implies that misinformation is being used against her.The claim that the coverage is purposefully being done to discredit her has no basis in reality. The coverage on IrishCycle.com is within journalistic standards and covers an issue which is in the public interest. In responseto this, I wrote the third article, the comment article linked above, outlining CllrODonovans further examples of misinformation and how she was misrepresenting IrishCycle.coms news coverage.This afternoon, CllrODonovanreplied to an automated IrishCycle.com post on Bluesky that linked to the article.CllrODonovansaid:Nice work Cian! A nice touch to bring in my family too. Very reasonable and this 3rd article doesnt come across as some unhinged vendetta at all! As I said Im embarrassed for you. [link:https://bsky.app/profile/elisaodonovan.bsky.social/post/3lrdg6k2ors2z]This was clearly sarcastic and really makes the claim that there is an unhinged vendetta. There is no reason why I would have a unhinged or other vendetta against her, I am just trying to do my job.After a few comments, CllrODonovanblocked me on Bluesky, and that also blocks the thread for all users, but the following is an accurate representation of the posts in the main thread after that comment:@irishcycle.comat June 11, 2025 at 3:27 PM: I will be contacting SIPO.@irishcycle.comat June 11, 2025 at 4:07 PM: Re your family member, your sister is publicly campaigning against the project, including using paid Facebook adverts. Why is that not relevant? (1/2)@irishcycle.comat June 11, 2025 at 4:10 PM: SIPO outlines Cllrs must show Courtesy and respect should also be observed when using social media channels and written communications. Do you think youre living up to that with claims of some unhinged vendetta, calling me or my actions Pathetic and you being embarrassed for me?I took a screenshot of the thread before she blocked me:Her reply within this thread after that was:I stand by everything I have said about you! I am used to the far right and extremists placing SIPO complaints as well as all the cycling campaigners who have attempted multiple times to put in complaints about meso go aheadThis is a screenshot of the same:The councillor seems to be having active conflicts with a number of people and groups at once, and maybe seems to have an issue with confusing those battles. Otherwise, I do not understand why she is, in the case above, and also on social media, conflating different groups and people.I find her behaviour surreal and is nothing like what Ive encountered in around 15 years covering active travel routes and reporting on the words of councillors from all parties and independents. The last time a politicianacted even close to this unprofessionally towards me was when I was on placement as a student journalist, and a TD didnt like beingquestioned by a student. I cannot think of a single other time since that would come close.One of the strongest compliments I have received from councillors previously is that while they might not agree with everything I write in comment articles, they have viewed my coverage of council meetings on contentiousprojects or other issues as fair and accurate.CllrElisaODonovans behaviour seems to fall far short of the behaviour expected from councillors, and I would ask that you please act on this complaint. If you require anything else please let me know.***ENDS*** Some people would say that I should have just let this go, but I dont think its healthy in a democracy for councillors to go around claiming that journalists covering their objections to projects are making unsubstantiated claims without even trying to back them up.I also dont think its okay for councillors to go around claiming that journalists have an unhinged vendetta just because they follow up with more coverage after more claims were made against the project in question and then against this site. This website has a deep focus on active travel publishing three articles in close succession about a key issue is not unheard of. I hope Social Democrat councillors and members realise I have nothing against their party, and I have just been reporting on issues as they arise (in the main case above, the issues were first aired on the councillors own Facebook page and then on a local newspaper). This also isnt targeted at one person I have also covered issues with Social Democrats and other parties councillors in other parts of the country. Itll come as no surprise to readers that this website mainly covers the objections politicians from other parties have to active travel and public transport. Those parties being the main objectors does not mean it is not legitimate to cover issues where councillors from parties generally supportive of active travel have issues with projects, etc and, indeed, that does not even mean the councillors are always wrong; projects are not flawless.Councillors or council officials are not infallible, and nor is this website. Nobody is. Thats why this website checkings infromaion first and asks questions. Nobody is obliged to respond to a request for comment, but nobody should get abuse in reply to such a request.

The latest creation to roll out of the Rhubarb Bikes shop in Czechia is the Mizuna Bomb, a mini cargo bike that balances heavy-hauling capability with a lively BMX feel. Find a quick peek at it hereThe post The Rhubarb Bikes Mizuna Bomb is a Mixed-Wheel Mini Cargo Hauler appeared first on BIKEPACKING.com.

It has been a handful of years since Fizik first introduced the Terra Ergolace shoe. Fizik originally designed the shoe to handle all sorts of backcountry demands, from all-day trail adventures to multiple-night bikepacking.Since the launch of the Terra Ergolace, weve seen a few iterations, including a flat-pedal eMTB-specific platform. Knowing the Ergolace would see all sorts of trail and weather conditions, the addition of a waterproof Gore-Tex option also made sense, as did a clip-in version for trail and gravel riding.Fizik Ergolace 2 adventure-ready off-road cycling shoesNow, Fizik updates the adventure shoe with the all-new Ergolace 2 version 2.0, not to be confused with X2, which was just the naming of the second-gen outsole on the previous model. The completely revamped Ergolace 2 platform features both clip-in and flat pedal options, new speed-lacing, increased stiffness, options for lightweight uppers with or without GORE-TEX waterproofing, and a claimed weight reductionAlthough, if were being honest, the jury is still out on that weight reduction.Whats new?While the old and new Ergolace shoes look fairly similar, a few key differences distinguish Fiziks update. First, Fizik ditched a traditional but asymmetric tongue in favor of a more sock-like bootie construction. The new style, made from perforated Airprene, reduces layering across the foot, promising a more even fit.Perhaps this is also a good move on the waterproof front, helping prevent water from entering the shoe.New Gore-Tex Invisible Fit membrane!On the waterproof front, its also interesting that this is apparently the first-ever cycling shoe to get the lighter GORE-TEX Invisible Fit membrane inside for waterproofing. Usually used in performance running and hiking footwear, the Invisible Fit membrane is said to have less of an impact on the fit and flexibility of the shoes construction, making the waterproof version feel more like a regular lightweight shoe.New Ergo Speed-Laces & Revised FitThe Ergolace 2 shoes also feature a new speed-lacing system. Rather than traditional laces, Fizik uses a lightweight cord with a quick-release locking system. This allows riders to adjust the fit in seconds, even while on the bike. Fizik designed the lacing offset to the side to optimize the ergonomic fit, also keeping it out of the drivetrain.Compared to the previous version, the new Ergolace 2 features a wider forefoot area. This allows the foot a bit more room to move, reducing pressure on longer rides.New Vibram MegaGrip & Vibram XS Ride Treads, Plus More StiffnessThe shoes also get new sole construction with all-new treads that Fizik developed directly with Vibram. The clip-in shoe (above, left) features a new Vibram MegaGrip, with more open lug spacing especially at the toe & heel for better off-the-bike grip. The Flat shoe (above, right) uses a new Vibram XS Ride tread that features the same toe & heel, but a completely revised tightly-packed central tread to offer better pedal & pin engagement without sacrificing hike-a-bike grip as the old linear tread did.It seems that Fizik also increased the stiffness a bit, claiming a stiffness of 4/10 for the clips (an increase of 1).While the Ergolace 2 Flats maintain a 2/10 stiffness rating, prioritizing hike-a-bike-ability and conforming to your platform pedals for maximum grip.But are they really lighter?With all these updates, the new Ergolace 2 is lighter, right? Well, that would seem to be the case regarding Fiziks press material. Several comments mention reduced weight, but we simply cant find it.The new Ergolace 2 GTX Flat has a claimed weight of 370g per shoe. That is 7g heavier than the previous Terra Ergolace GTX Flat. The difference is even more on the non-waterproof shoe 352g claimed for the Ergolace 2 Flat being 49g heavier than the previous Terra Ergolace Flat weight claim.A similar pattern repeats with the clipless shoes. The new Ergolace 2 GTX option shoe weighs a claimed 424g and the older version 389g, or +35g per shoe. And the Ergolace 2 at 406g vs. 329g for the previous Terra Ergolace X2 clip, for an extra 77g per shoe.You surely wont notice an extra 7g on the one side, but 77g more is maybe another story. We might have to get a hold of some of the new shoes to see how that difference shows up in the real-world.Fizik Ergolace 2 Pricing, Options & Availability presumably a pre-production shoe, showing the final colors but without the laser-cut side vents?The new adventure-ready Fizik Ergolace 2 off-road cycling shoes come in four options: for flat or clipless pedals, and with or without the new Gore-Tex Invisible Fit waterproof membrane. The standard versions sell for $150 / 150, and the Gore-Tex waterproof shoes for $190 / 190 for either flats or clips.Flat pedal or Clipless pedal optionsAvailable with or without optional GORE-TEX Invisible Fit waterproof membraneSizes: 36-48 (half sizes available between 37-47)3 color options for standard lightweight upper: Off-White, Dark Blue/Black & Forest Green/Caramel2 color options for waterproof GORE-TEX upper: dark Black/Black & light Desert/Grey(Artsy photos by Jimmy Sber/Fizik)fizik.comThe post Fizik Updates Ergolace 2 Adventure Riding Shoes with Clip, Flat & New GORE-TEX Option appeared first on Bikerumor.

His breakaway partner Alfonso Eullio now wears pink

The 2026 Giro d'Italia will take place from the 8th to the 31st of May. It is the first Grand Tour of the season, and there are 21 stages that will take the riders through many of Italy's iconic cities, the mythical Alps, and many treacherous stages - each one can end the climber's chances of winnin...

The new Rogue Panda Picketpost Rack-Top Bag is a unique top-opener with a roll-top closure, a backpacking-inspired mesh pocket, and two width options to fit various racks. We tested a prototype, got out for a shake-down ride with Rogue Pandas founder, and tried out the final version over the weekend. Find all the details on the Picketpost Rack-Top Bag and a peek at the upcoming Elden Rack-Top Bag hereThe post Rogue Panda Picketpost and Elden Rack-Top Bags: Two Minimalist Rack Bags appeared first on BIKEPACKING.com.

British brand Hi-Tail has A New Hope when it comes to rider visibility, with its safety beacon offering a novel approach to nighttime riding. The device, which is hard not to liken to a lightsaber, features a telescopic mast that extends upwards and is illuminated by a light at the bottom. Founders Brian McIntyre and Paul Costigan say the device has been in development for over a decade, with the idea first coming to McIntyre when he was working with underground machinery in mines. The design is impressively visible. Nick Clark / Our Media In those prototyping stages, the brand says stability was an issue, with robustness added to the Hi-Tail at every stage. The brand is based in Southampton, with manufacturing taking place in Little Hampton. Hi-Tail offers 360 degrees of visibility, with the telescopic mast sitting higher than the rider. While the device is aimed at all riders, the brand has a version that is designed specifically for recumbents, cargo bikes and adult trikes, all of which often have a lower profile than regular bikes. This version features a clamp that connects directly to the bike's frame. The rack is rated to 10kg. Nick Clark / Our Media The two other variants mount via the seatpost, with the rack version rated to 10kg for those looking to be seen when touring or commuting. All versions are priced at 98. The top cap of the telescopic pole keeps things tidy when the pole is not in use. Nick Clark / Our Media The glowing portion is interchangeable, with a bayonet fitting attaching it to the separate mounts. There are three modes for the beacon, with the brand saying you can expect up to 14 hours of battery life per charge. Charging is easy, with the device using USB-C. Should you wish to lower your visibility or pack it away for storing, the beacon collapses down with the cap on top keeping everything together tightly. First impressions The rackmount version stayed securely in place. Nick Clark / Our Media The Hi-Tail is unconventional in how it attracts attention, but theres no arguing that it does. I had the rackmount version, and while I didnt use panniers with it, there was no movement from the rear whatsoever. To start with, I put the device on a hack bike because I was keen to see if it affected the handling in any way, and during my short test, it was hard to tell any discernible difference. My initial scepticism of the device was quick to disappear when the sun went down, with the telescopic pole offering an impressive amount of visibility. These pictures of it on my Merida One-Sixty go some way to showing how bright the maximum setting is, but up-close, it looked as if the bike was being beamed up by aliens. The Hi-Tail offers a level of visibility that Ive never seen before, and while its not something Id ride with all the time, it impressed me. If youre too cool for hi-vis, youre probably too cool for this, but for those who feel vulnerable riding at night, there is very little that comes close to this.