the MiNewt X2 at REI was $189 while the MiNewt (regular) was only $86-ish after discount + sale, so it was worth the brightness hit for me. i don't do hardcore / long rides at night and mainly the flash mode with a headlamp combo. i figured i'd give it a whirl and see how it does — REI has a great return policy, so i've got nothin' to lose.