Busch & Müller Ixon Rock review: StVZO-compliant lights for aero cockpits

Fitting to the Aero-Cockpit incurs an additional charge

The Ixon Rock from Busch + Müller is designed for road cyclists and gravel bikers with modern aero set-ups when used in combination with the accessory mount. However, for suspended mounting on the front mount bracket, the light requires the appropriate GoPro mount. This increases the total price from 99.90 to 119.80 euros. As a result, the Ixon Rock ranks in the upper mid-range of the seven-model test field.

This solution is compatible with many modern aero handlebars featuring a GoPro mount. Handy: the headlight is positioned centrally in front of the handlebars, takes up no space next to the stem or cycle computer mount, and does not detract from the clean look of an integrated handlebar setup. In our test, the mount scored 1.5 out of 5. It holds the light securely and allows for easy adjustment of the beam pattern.

A uniform light pattern with good near-field illumination

The Ixon Rock’s strength lies in its light pattern. The light scores 2.0 in this category and produces an even beam of light without any noticeable bright spots or dark areas. It illuminates the road surface particularly well at close range. This makes it easier to find your way on unlit side roads, as well as to spot bumps, leaves or rough patches of tarmac directly in front of the front wheel.

For fast descents, a StVZO-compliant headlamp with a clearly defined beam pattern is no substitute for full-beam headlights. Its purpose is to provide glare-free and even illumination of the road. This is precisely where the Ixon Rock delivers a satisfactory result. External comparative tests also rate the model’s lighting technology and glare-free adjustability highly.

Accurate display of reserves

In everyday use, the battery level indicator is particularly impressive. A blue five-LED bar provides precise information on the remaining capacity. Unlike rough red-and-green indicators, this makes it easier to gauge the remaining charge. As the charge level drops, the electronics gradually reduce the light output. This extends the available burn time and prevents the lamp from switching off suddenly.

The TOUR rating for handling is 1.5. Three lighting modes allow the light to be adapted to city traffic, well-lit paths or dark country roads. The runtime measured in the test is 3 hours and 10 minutes. The Ixon Rock takes 2 hours 50 minutes to fully charge. This isn’t a record-breaking time, but it’s reasonable for a rechargeable light in this class.

Solid build quality, reasonable weight

Including the mount, the Ixon Rock weighs 135 grams. On an aero road bike, the weight is hardly noticeable, especially as the light is positioned compactly in front of the handlebars. The build quality scores 2.0. The housing, controls and mount all give the impression of being robust. The headlight is manufactured in Germany.

The Ixon Rock is not a cheap, basic light. The additional adapter must be factored into the cost if you wish to mount it on the front mount. In return, road cyclists get a tried-and-tested, easy-to-use light with a well-balanced beam pattern and reliable battery level indicators. Busch + Müller stocks suitable adapters for the Ixon Rock to fit GoPro, Garmin, Wahoo and Aero handlebar mounts.