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On The Road

On The Road U16 flashlight review

Cree XP-L V6 LED
1020 lm output
4900 cd intensity
1 x 16340 Li-Ion battery

The On The Road U16 flashlight released in 2017. It uses Cree XP-L V6 LED, OP reflector and 1 x 16340 Li-Ion battery. The powerful emitter in this flashlight provides up to 1020 lm output, 4900 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 140 m.

Want to know if the On The Road made a really good flashlight? You'll find out by the end of our article!

Table of Contents

The content of this article reflects our own experiences and viewpoints. We aim to offer insights on a topic, and we hope others find it helpful and motivating. Additionally, we make every effort to provide accurate and comprehensive coverage. If you found an error or something lacking in the specifications for the On The Road U16, then tell us.

On The Road U16 / U16

The U16 flashlight provides instant illumination at the touch of a switch. This immediate response is particularly useful in emergency situations. This light has 5 modes of lighting. The U16 mode memory eliminates the need to cycle through modes. You don't have to do this each time you turn on the flashlight. It provides convenience and saves time. You can use the strobe function as a self-defense tool. It provides a non-lethal way to deter or disorient attackers. This USB rechargeable flashlight eliminates the need for disposable batteries. It offers a cheaper and more eco-friendly solution.

On The Road U16 specifications

BrandOn The Road
NameU16
TypeU16
Rating
Rated 4 / 5 based on 1411 user votes.
Launch2017
Formflashlight

Flashlights are unlike ambient or overhead lights. They let you aim the light where you need it.

On The Road U16 / 3

Body, materials, weight, colors

Weight60 g
Length71 mm
Body diameter24 mm
Head diameter26.5 mm
Materialaluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish
Colorsblack

The U16 is small, compact, and designed for ultra-portability. A smaller flashlight is easier to carry in a pocket, bag, or pouch. This makes it more convenient for everyday use or when you're on the go. The aluminium body of the U16 has excellent thermal conductivity. This means it can effectively dissipate heat generated by the flashlight's components. The HAIII coating is uniform and attractive. It is often available in different colors, giving the flashlight a sleek, pro look. The U16 flashlight comes in a stylish black color.

On The Road U16 / 1

System, LED, lens, reflector

EmitterCree XP-L V6 LED
Color temperature6500 K
ReflectorOP
Lenstoughtened AR coated glass
Switchelectronic side

Cree is widely regarded as a reputable LED manufacturer. Warm, white light is generally more comfortable. It's also less harsh on the eyes than cool, white light. The designers of the U16 incorporated an orange peel reflector to enhance the beam. It does this by diffusing the light from the light source. The AR coating reduces the loss of light due to reflections, allowing more light to pass through the lens. The electronic switches may have a higher chance of standby drain.

On The Road U16 / 6

Performance, flux, intensity, throw

Flux1020 lm
Intensity4900 cd
Throw140 m
CD/LM factor4.8

With 1020 lm, the U16 flashlight will offer a brighter and more powerful beam of light. The U16 flashlight has 4900 cd. It provides a much brighter and more intense beam. The throw is the distance in meters at which the flashlight produces a light intensity of 0.25 lux. Candela per lumen (cd/lm) measures a flashlight's beam intensity. It compares this to its total luminous flux or output.

On The Road U16 / 2

Software, user interface, modes

Modes5 modes
Mode memoryyes
Ramping modeno
Strobeyes
SOS/Beaconyes

A flashlight's modes are different output settings or brightness levels. They can be chosen to meet different needs and preferences. The flashlight has mode memory. It remembers the mode you were using when the light was last turned off. It stays in that mode when you turn it on again. The U16 is tactical strobe ready. The strobe light is disorienting to the person it is aimed at, this makes it hard for them to concentrate. The SOS flashes Morse code so you can signal for help when needed.

On The Road U16 / 4

Features, battery, protections

Battery1 x 16340 Li-Ion battery
Battery indicatoryes
Charger portmicroUSB
LVPyes
Thermal regulationno
ProtectionIPx6
AUX LEDsno
Magneticyes

The U16 flashlight's power source is 1 x 16340 Li-Ion battery. It provides reliable, long-lasting energy for top performance. The battery indicator lets you know when the battery is low, charging, or fully charged. This flashlight can charge the battery with a built-in charger. It works with a USB power source. The flashlight detects when the battery's voltage has dropped to a certain level. Then, it reduces or cuts off the power.

Flashlights without thermal protection may rely on other design elements to dissipate heat. These elements include heat sinks, fins, or body materials with good thermal conductivity. The IPx6 rating indicates that the flashlight has a protection against water jets. The U16 is magnetic so that the flashlight can be attached to some metallic surfaces.

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Accessories, package contents

Package contents2 x spare o-rings
lanyard
microUSB cable

The lanyard prevents accidental loss of the flashlight. When using spare O-rings, follow the maker's instructions. Use their guidelines for proper installation.

According to the ANSI/NEMA FL1 Standard, we measure the performance of the U16 flashlight 30 seconds after switching on the light. The ANSI/NEMA FL1 2009 Standard is a set of flashlight performance guidelines.

Conclusion, pros and cons

This On The Road flashlight, like any other, has its strengths and weaknesses. Let's take a close look at both sides to understand this flashlight better. I share my thoughts on its standout features and the parts that might need improvement. Keep in mind, these are just my opinions, and you might have a different perspective.

Pros

  • lightweight
  • aluminium body
  • OP reflector
  • AR coated lens
  • side switch
  • adequate performance
  • multiple modes
  • mode memory
  • tactical strobe
  • SOS/beacon function
  • battery indicator
  • USB charger
  • low-voltage protection
  • waterproof
  • magnetic

Cons

  • cool light
  • low intensity
  • no thermal regulation
  • no auxiliary LEDs

Photos

On The Road U16 / U16 photo 1.
On The Road U16 / U16 photo 2.
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On The Road U16 / U16 photo 9.
On The Road U16 / U16

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David Hagon
I love bushcraft and flashlights. I find joy in mastering wilderness survival skills and exploring the realm of illuminating gadgets. Bushcraft isn't just fun, it's a learning journey. I form a strong bond with nature. It's more than a hobby, it enriches me in practical and spiritual ways.
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