Motorcycle headlight modulator

[Scruit]

I want to install a DOT-approved headlight modulator on my motorcycle, but I've heard stories from other riders where drivers apparently mistake the modulating headlight for an emergency vehicle (ie they pull over if you ride behind them). Imagine wig-wags, but with just one headlight.

Have any of the LEOs on this forum had experience with headlight modulators on motorbikes? How did you deal with that?

Similarly, those who have never seen a headlight modulator, how would you deal with a motorbike that you saw using one?

I just don't want to get myself pulled over by LEOs who mistake the modulator for an illegal wig-wag unit...

[121Traffic]

what's it for?

[acreature]

Modulating headlights, even on an MC is illegal in NC.. unless you are LE, FF, or EMT

Does not matter whether on or off.

Check with your state laws.

[txinvestigator1]

That would not be legal in Texas either.

[Darin]

In VA. headlight modulators for motorcycles are legal. They must flash at a rate of 200-280 flashes per minute. They aren't supposed to be modulated during daytime hours. Only at night or during inclement weather.

The modulators look nothing like wig wags. I think they are a good safety item because they really get your attention.

And BTW Scruit....where ya been? Haven't seen ya on here in a while?

[fatboyjim154]

They make the headlamp flicker and easy to see/spot. Not like a wigwag, more subtle.

They actually make the lamp look like it's loose. Well my one did.

[TX-LEO]

I've only seen one of these in TX. Thought it was a bike cop till it got closer!! :D

Since every other car has daytime running lights, bikes are now even more un-noticed than before. DTRL prevent nothing on passenger cars, and they have only succeeded in making more motorcyclist's victims of traffic wrecks. All DTRL on cars has done is make more and more people drive away in the dark without all their lights on, since fools see their headlight reflection in the road and think ALL their lights are on. I've lost count of the number of fool's I've stopped for this.

I have noticed that headlights are automatic on/off in most new GM vehicles. Ain't this just what we need. More idiot proof stuff, so more idiots can drive.

[Ranger__101]

As long as it's DOT approved there is not problem. There are some fed laws that pretty much say that anything that is federally approved can not be overridden by the states.

I did some reading on the headlight modulators before and some states are having an issue but generally once the get a letter from the DOT they get in step.

For those who don't know what a headlight modulator is.. It cycles the power of the headlight

Mounting a motorcycle headlight modulator is an easy procedure that will help increase the visibility of your motorcycle to oncoming traffic. Motorcycle headlight modulators rapidly flash the motorcycle’s headlight at 240 (plus or minus 40) cycles per minute, which attracts the attention of oncoming drivers. Headlight modulators for motorcycles are completely legal in all 50 states.

Headlight modulators are made by several manufacturers. Some modulate the low beam, some modulate the high beam. Some models let you choose which beam to modulate. The federal law cited above has other specifications and limitations on how they work. For example, all modulators must have an automatic system that stops the modulation at night, but still allows the headlight to function normally. Fortunately, you don’t have to worry about how it works, as the modern miracle of microelectronics comes through again and makes it happen!

This Federal law supersedes all state laws and makes motorcycle headlight modulators legal in all 50 states. FMVSS 108 (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards) (49 CFR Part 571.108 S7.9.4) allows motorcycle headlight modulation systems all 50 states provided they comply with the standards set forth in this section. Title 49 USC 30103 (b1) (US Codes) prohibits any state from forbidding a system that conforms to FMVSS 108

[Scruit]

The responses I see here are exactly why I'm hesitating. The majority of the responses here, even from verified LEOs, show a lack of understanding of the law behind the use of headlight modulators. Those that are designed to comply with Federal Mandate 12866 are 50 state legal: http://www.kisantech.com/kisanWeb3/frameSample.htm

But if the ordinary cop in the street thinks that I'm breaking the law by using it then is it going to be more trouble than it's worth?? :(

[Deputy Joe]

If I were you, I would contact your state patrol. Those guys deal with traffic laws and at least in Wisconsin know their stuff better than anyone. They would be able to tell you if it is legal in your state. You could also try and get a hold of a Blue Knight chapter. Those guys are cops that bike. They should know the laws and might have experience with the headlight system.

[Darin]

The responses I see here are exactly why I'm hesitating. The majority of the responses here, even from verified LEOs, show a lack of understanding of the law behind the use of headlight modulators. Those that are designed to comply with Federal Mandate 12866 are 50 state legal: http://www.kisantech.com/kisanWeb3/frameSample.htm

But if the ordinary cop in the street thinks that I'm breaking the law by using it then is it going to be more trouble than it's worth?? :(

The opinion of some verified LEO shouldn't deter you from using a legal (check your state law) device.

[Legoate]

They are legal in CA. For daytime use only. I've seen them on bikes....can grab your attention. If it's legal in your state I doubt you'll have trouble from officers.

[Darin]

In VA. headlight modulators for motorcycles are legal. They must flash at a rate of 200-280 flashes per minute. They aren't supposed to be modulated during daytime hours. Only at night or during inclement weather.

The modulators look nothing like wig wags. I think they are a good safety item because they really get your attention.

And BTW Scruit....where ya been? Haven't seen ya on here in a while?

SOrry but I have to correct my mistake. I just woke up from mids and mis typed.

Modulators must be used during DAYLIGHT hours and NOT at night as I typed in my first reply.

[Deputy Joe]

SOrry but I have to correct my mistake. I just woke up from mids and mis typed.

Modulators must be used during DAYLIGHT hours and NOT at night as I typed in my first reply.

I thought that didn't sound right.

[TX-LEO]

The opinion of some verified LEO shouldn't deter you from using a legal (check your state law) device.

A FREAKIN MEN BRO!


Also, cops are generally the LAST people you ask about gun laws too, believe it or not :D