I was torn about getting a helmet light (this thread was started by me: http://bikearlingtonforum.com/showthread.php?7726-Not-another-lighting-thread!!-This-time-it-s-helmet-mounts), but got the L&M 360 and first started using it about 10 days ago (paired with an old NightRider handlebar mount). I love it. The beam is steadier than a handlebar mount and points exactly where I want it with zero effort. I can see ahead on a dark trail with a sharp turn. The biggest benefit in my mind is that when I am on the road and a traffic ramp comes in from the side I can turn my head and have a reasonable expectation the driver will see me. Those types of intersections always scared me a bit at night because the car’s headlights aren’t pointing at me, and my lights weren’t pointing at them. Now they are.
As far as politeness, it’s much easier to turn my head slightly to keep the beam out of an approaching rider’s eyes than it is adjusting my handlebar mount. I am also able to keep my handlebar light pointed much lower since I am using the helmet light to scan ahead. I ride with it flashing on roads (including daytime) and steady on trails – low if possible, but sometimes I need the brighter light (still only 120 lumens)
FWIW, I got the 360 and not the 360+. The headlight is plenty bright for me (I think the “plus” has twice the lumens). The “plus” also lets you turn off the rear flasher separately from the headlight – not worth the extra $80 or so to me.
