New Supernova M99 Pro 2: More Than Just a Headlight

In autumn 2023, Supernova presented its most powerful front headlight for ebikes. The M99 Pro was followed by the M99 Pro 2. In the meantime, this is also available in larger quantities. So, some of you are probably asking yourselves two key questions: What is the difference between the two models? And is it worth buying the older headlight at a reduced price or would it be better to look for the revised version of Supernova’s flagship model?

Which superlative follows “brightest”?

The experience of brightness always involves a degree of subjective perception. At the same time, there are objectively measurable values. And these already showed the M99 Pro to be the brightest front light that you can use on an ebike on Germany’s roads. Supernova seemed not to be satisfied with this and has gone one better with the light output. Compared to its predecessor, the M99 Pro 2 emits more light. It also generates a higher illuminance on the road. In plain language, this means that the previous 1,600 lumens are now 3,000 lumens, which is almost double. And the 380 lux now increases to 450 lux. This puts it in the position of the brightest front headlight approved by the German Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO).

A small but comes on the heels. Both of these values only apply to the high beam of the headlamp. The low beam increases from 1,100 lumens to 1,200 lumens, while the luminous flux in this mode remains unchanged at 310 lux. The manufacturer does not provide any information on the daytime running light.

Anyone who really wanted to ride a brighter headlight than the M99 Pro can therefore rejoice at this point and declare their deliberations over. Especially as the recommended retail price remains at 449 euros.

Rapid response to changing light conditions

Just like the price, the basic mode of operation has not changed. A sensor integrated in the headlight analyses the light conditions in the surroundings. Depending on the result, it automatically switches in fractions of a second from daytime running light with twelve LEDs to low beam with 16 LEDs and vice versa. To activate the high beam, you operate a small button, which should usually be located on the handlebars or stem. We were unable to determine whether the aperture is different on the new light.

Inside you will recognise the familiar M99 Matrix Mirror. According to Supernova, this reflector is manufactured with a precision of seven nanometres. Each of the 99 built-in mirror surfaces has been individually calculated and specially aligned. An extra-hardened front glass protects the construction from the weather and – to a certain extent – from scratches and knocks.

Slight facelift

Only at second glance will you realise that the M99 Pro 2 has become more compact. In addition to the slightly smaller dimensions, the housing has also undergone some changes. It is still made of aluminium and manufactured in one piece. However, the distinctive ribs on the top and rear have disappeared. This gives the headlight a much more sleek appearance than before. Illuminated Supernova lettering on the narrow sides improves visibility.

Transformation into a control centre

However, the real innovation is hidden at the rear of the light. There are now a total of five ports for various cables. Socket 1 is intended for connection to the ebike system’s power supply. The high beam you connect to socket 4. Sockets 2 and 3, on the other hand, are freely assignable. They can be used to connect things like a smartphone, a navigation device, a horn or heated grips to the headlight. Anyone who knows how cumbersome it still is to charge an external mobile device on many ebike systems will be delighted with this additional function. You can call up a maximum of 30 watts there. No special preparations are required. Everything works according to the “plug and play” principle.

Anyone who has been paying attention will be waiting to find out what socket 5 is all about. The M99 Pro 2 can draw even more power via this port. It absolutely needs it if, for example, you want to light up the road with the full 3,000 lumens in the high beam – but the light port on the motor does not provide enough watts. Generally, 35 watts are required. According to Supernova, only certain drive systems from Neodrives and the Turkish manufacturer Alba Ebikes currently fulfil this specification. You can only enjoy the full power of all other drive systems with the help of a second power supply. Fortunately, if the M99 Pro 2 is connected to less than 35 watts, this does not lead to any further problems. The result is simply a lower light output. Even over longer periods of time, however, this does not cause any damage. Basically, a 12-volt connection and an output of nine watts are sufficient to use at least the low beam and daytime running light without any limitations.

Important accessories

If you want to ride using high beam, the system is considered as follows in relation to Bosch motors in these cases: A standard connection cable, which comes from the light output of the motor, leads to socket 1. On the other hand, the new Supernova Power Boost Connector in combination with the Supernova Power Connector Cable leads to socket 5. The latter is connected to the low-power port of the motor.

And there is another detail to watch out for: The light features the ports – what is currently still missing are the necessary cables. This is because the sockets are not USB ports. So you won’t get very far with a conventional smartphone charging cable. Supernova is working on this and wants to present the right accessories as soon as possible.

Promising outlook

All things considered, we believe there are already good arguments in favour of opting for Supernova’s new product. After all, it is already ahead of the older model where it really counts for a light – when it comes to illuminating the road. And with the additional slots and the prospect of the necessary accessories, it opens up completely new possibilities in the future. All at the same price as the M99 Pro initially cost.

Another clear improvement is the fact that the M99 Pro 2 no longer has to be connected directly to the ebike battery, but can be connected to the respective drive system as normal by plugging it into the port for the front light. With the predecessor, the input voltage had to be between 24 volts and 60 volts and therefore required the previously mentioned special solution. The 12-volt connection puts an end to these times.

Comparison of selected technical details of Supernova M99 Pro 2 and Supernova M99 Pro

* Only applies to M99 Pro 2 for speed pedelecs, otherwise 500 lm and 130 lx.
** Only applies to M99 Pro for speed pedelecs. M99 Mini Pro = 450 lm and 150 lx.

Pictures: Supernova Design GmbH