I can't imagine gas powered bike lamps were great to ride around with but the ones they replaced (soot!, smoke!, danger!) must've been even more exciting.
You might be surprised - acetylene is very bright, and very white - probably better brightness than the electric that replaced it. Wouldn't surprise me if it took until LED arrived, or 12v halogen for motorbikes and cars, to beat it. Obviously electric wins for no fire! and not needing regular maintenance.
