Reviews of Solar Motion Lamp - Bicycle Rider

Customer Ratings:
List Price: $49.99
Sale Price: $46.99
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Back in 1968 (shortly after the dinosaurs died out) a friend and I rode 3-speed English Racers across the United States from Boston to San Diego. My friend recently retired from his tenure at MIT and I was invited to Boston for his retirement party. The Solar Motion Bicycle Rider seemed like the perfect gift but I wanted to personalize it. So I ordered these labels Avery Clear Full-Sheet Labels for Inkjet Printers, 8.5 x 11-Inches, Pack of 10 (18665) to apply a personal insignia on the light screen behind the rider. See my customer image above.

It was quite a hit at the party and gave the "Old Buzzard" a bit of notoriety with his young former students. They didn't realize that their old professor was once quite an athlete and adventurer. The key, I think, is the personalization of the gift with the Avery labels. The translucent screen behind the rider is the ideal place for a message or insignia.

My 5-star rating is for the product which I think is very nice for the price. However, it was damaged when I received it. The external shipping box showed no sign of damage or rough handling but the manufacture's box inside had a corner crinkled in. I was not surprised to find the light bulb inside broken. If there was other hidden damage it wasn't obvious. I found a small candelabra base bulb at a local (Valu) hardware store and got it up and running. What galls me is that the person who shipped this item for Amazon knew the manufacturer's box was damaged and should have known the product was damaged as well.

I've noticed that some other reviewers have received their product with broken light bulbs. I wouldn't let that stop you if you decide this is the right gift for someone. But you should be prepared to run down to the hardware store for a 40W candelabra base bulb. You may also have to slightly bend the wire cage behind the bulb if it's bigger (or a different form factor) than the original bulb.

UPDATE and CORRECTION: I had actually ordered this item twice for two different friends. The one from this supplier (Peanuts Toy Barn) arrived undamaged. The supplier that shipped a damaged product was Big Fly Sports. My apology to Peanuts Toy Barn.

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I've owned this lamp for about 15 years now and just happened to see it here on Amazon. This little lamp is cool and especially kids love it. When the light is on, the solar panel powers the bicycle and it looks as if he is riding it with his legs moving. Also, when you move this lamp with its back to the sun so the solar panel gets light naturally, the bicycle rider starts moving as well. Very neat and educational. Not to mention that after 15 years, this lamp still works and functions with its original parts.

I can't remember what I paid for it back then, but I know it was less than $40. It seems a bit pricey for a small accent lamp here on Amazon. Especially since it does not provide reading light. It is more for fun, or kids, and makes a good gift.

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First saw this at a children's museum. Actually tried to buy one there but only had the display. I found it here on amazon. It is still in hiding because it is a gift for the hubby.