Last Update: 15 February 2023
A weekend motorcycle tour or even a long daytime motorcycle ride can often turn into a ride that takes you into the night. As we ride home or to our next destination for our overnight stop, we need to adjust our riding techniques. We need to prepare for the changes occurring to our surroundings, particularly how we appear within the environment we ride. Being seen and seeing the road in front of you is crucial to your safety and operational ability. With these tips below you can easily boost your visibility when riding in the dark!
Upgrade Your Headlamp Bulb
Consider replacing your headlamp bulb with a super brighter DOT approved model or even an LED bulb. This can greatly increase your view of the road and of course brighten up your presence to oncoming traffic. Some motorcyclists replace their headlight bulb with a non-DOT approved off-road lamp for effects (colour) and brightness. It’s best though to stay away from coloured bulbs (which generally are illegal) as these are more distracting than worthy. In most cases by upgrading to a better quality bulb you’ll be adding as much as a six percent increased two-way visibility!
*TIP: Be sure to double-check that the bulb you wish to instal is compatible with your “electrics” ensuring it is the correct size, etc. Check with your dealership or mechanic to be sure.
Adjust Your Headlamp Angle
Inspect the angle of your headlamp. Often these are not in the best position to maximise your view of the road. The angle is a key step towards securing your own safety. Headlamps and bulbs can change position from road vibrations, age, and so forth. Inspect the inner bulb to ensure it is fixed in place and hasn’t become loose.
Short Motorcycle Lighting
Often manufacturers use undersized brake lighting and signal indicators making them difficult to see. Furthermore, it’s not uncommon that the aim of your headlight is lower to the street than what the legal angle allows. Therefore it’s best to double check your front and rear lighting including your signal indicators. If you have a small brake light, consider replacing the light with a larger option. If this is not possible, try adding additional lighting to the rear of your bike, of even your helmet.
Reflective Tape In Colours to Match Your Ride!
Add Reflective Tape
Purchase a roll of reflective pinstripe tape. This inexpensive tape is available in various colours to match your ride. It is applied to the inside edge of your rims and is highly reflective when caught in the headlights of another vehicle. It illuminates the circumference of your tiers creating an unmissable reflection. Furthermore reflective tape is a nice accent to your rims and provides the added bonus during night rides. There are many suppliers to choose from and is available for under $20.00.
Add Reflective Tape or Decals to Your Gear
Similar to the previous item, you can purchase stickers or adhesive reflective tape to apply to your gear, helmet or motorbike. It is easy to place small pieces around your tail light, rear fender, fairings and panniers/saddlebags. Very inexpensive and can be applied to blend in easily.
Wear A High Visibility Vest
A high visibility vest is easy to stow along in your cargo and is a truly versatile piece of gear. It can be worn over any motorcycle jacket. High vis vests are relatively inexpensive and highly reflective during the day and even more so at night or even during dark rainy days. They are easy to stow and carry. Truly part of a riders essential gear kit.
With the right management and a little extra effort, you’ll ensure you’ve done all you can to Boost Your Visibility When Riding In The Dark – and enjoy your night riding even more!
2 comments
High beam is especially important if youre riding on the hill sides but it causes a lot of trouble for the person coming from the other direction.
Another tip might be to add led lighting on the inside of your fairing. Through the indirect light your bikes visibility is much hightened and it looks pretty cool.