I’d been meaning to do this project forever and finally got around to it this morning: installing a Busch & Müller Toplight XS onto my Xtracycle’s Snapdeck so that I’d have a dynamo-powered taillight to pair with my B&M IQ Cyo headlight.
I used an inexpensive T-Bracket from Peter White Cycles to mount the Toplight XS. Since my Snapdeck has a Magic Carpet pad on top, I fabricated a small wooden shim out of thin plywood to clear the fabric while still allowing a secure mounting point. I glued the shim to the Snapdeck and then bolted the t-bracket to the Snapdeck/shim assembly using 1″ skateboard truck mounting bolts with nylon nuts that are countersunk flush with the top of the Snapdeck.
Lastly I had to run the wiring. You’ll need more than comes with the B&M headlight alone, but the B&M taillights also include wire, so you should be OK. I went ahead and added a Dean’s Micro Plug in between, so I can easily remove the Snapdeck as needed.
Photos tell the rest of the story.
Rick A Pickett
Sweet! I have the same light and have been wondering how I’d get it rigged up. Thanks, Steve!
Steve
My pleasure Rick! Despite having put it off for a long time, the job was actually pretty quick – maybe 3hrs total, and I’m a slow/methodical type. Good luck!
Nic Nelson
Very nice! Thanks for the links to your sources, I might follow your exact instructions to do my own… What kind of dynamo are you using?
Steve
Nic I’m using a Shimano DH-3D71 laced to a Sun Rhyno Lite rim. Harris Cyclery built the wheel and it’s been absolutely bombproof in its 2.5yrs of service.