Additional motorcycle headlight: improve your visibility and safety with ease
The collision between a motorist and a driver is often due to a lack of visibility or perception. And yet, the slightest shock can quickly become dramatic for two-wheelers. Hence the interest in investing in an additional motorcycle headlight. This optimizes your visibility and increases your safety on the road.
The benefit of installing an additional motorcycle headlight
First of all, be aware that the law in France prohibits the modification of the main light source. However, addition is possible to improve clarity and guarantee safety and comfort. Nowadays, most motorcyclists install an additional LED headlight to improve their visibility . This option is very effective, especially at night.
On the one hand, when you pass the curves, it offers a wider vision. On the other hand, when you are driving in foggy weather, the additional headlight allows you to cover the entire road. Installing additional lights is an intelligent and preventative action . Investing in this type of equipment therefore offers many advantages. All you have to do is choose the lights suited to your machine. You certainly have the choice between different types of additional motorcycle headlights.
The different types of additional motorcycle headlights
The choice of headlight type depends on your needs and your budget. There are a total of three types of additional headlights. Among the existing models on the market, you will find:
- So-called halogen headlights : this is the least efficient and least expensive model. It constitutes a little extra, but does not necessarily ensure optimal visibility.
- Xenon headlights : these headlight models are certainly the most efficient, but also the most expensive. They give you visibility from afar and the surrounding area. Their only downside is that they are imposing. As a result, they are not suitable for sports motorcycles like those from the Yamaha or Honda brand.
- Additional LED headlights : these are the most popular. They are just as efficient and remain incomparable in terms of longevity.
Criteria for choosing an additional motorcycle headlight
To choose the right additional lights for motorcycles, you must take into account several criteria including light intensity . To know the right light output, you can refer to the intensity of the previous bulb. In addition, you must also consider the attachment of additional lights . Your choice will depend on the location where you want to install your lighthouse. This is also an important criterion, because the safety of your 2 wheels depends on it.
The power consumption of your additional motorcycle headlight must also be taken into account. The most economical additional headlight type remains the LED model. However, avoid products whose potency is too high . If your LED headlight is too powerful, the battery will no longer charge optimally. Finally, you need to consider the accuracy and shape of the lighting beam .
Installation of additional lights for motorcycles
Certain models of additional motorcycle lights require specific installation. Therefore, the intervention of a professional may be essential. Most often, additional long-range headlights are accompanied by a wiring harness, a protection fuse and a switch.
Before installing them, it is advisable to disconnect the battery from the bike . Then, locate the fuse box and relay. Next, find the white wire and the yellow wire from the high beam. Colors may be different depending on the model of your motorcycle. In this case you can use a controller to find the correct wires. Continue by stripping each side of the wires to join the relay wire. Finally, solder the section cut when adding the relay and add an independent switch .
Tips for using and maintaining the additional headlight for motorcycles
The lifespan of your additional headlight depends on optimal use and good maintenance. Therefore, it is advisable to get into the habit of only turning on the additional lights once the engine is started . This will optimize their longevity. Then, so that the additional headlights play their role optimally, remember to clean them regularly . This will help you avoid reducing their lighting power due to various dirt. And this is valid for all other types of lighting.
Furthermore, it is useful, even essential, to change bulbs regularly . Maintaining your lights is therefore recommended at least every year, regardless of the type of additional headlight you choose. This will guarantee lasting effectiveness of your additional motorcycle lights.