Stoked about the high visibility lights on the sides of your license plate! Do you have a direct link? I checked the cyclops site but I can’t find these. What are they called?
I wanted to take a moment to thank Ben. I'm Darryl, I own Cyclops/Skene and extreme dual sport. In 20 plus years in the Motorcycle lighting business this is the first video with great explanations as to why you need extra lighting on a bike that I have seen. I'm not a salesman, I'm a rider who is passionate about what we do, hopefully we make a living at the same time. Keeping riders safe is our main mission, if you can get more time in the saddle at night that's a big bonus. Personally, I love to ride and race at night, that's why I started Cyclops. I have to laugh at some of the comments, sometimes a bit off base, (you do know you can dim LED lights, and Cameras cannot pickup LED lights correctly, right?) but that's all good. I also thank all of you for your feedback and support, that means so much to me and our company. We have decided to extend the dorkintheroad discount code through DEC.2023
My buddy and I just did a 1,800 mile trip from AL to TX. I am on my GSA and he's on an older Indian Darkhorse. We had this SAME EXACT conversation about auxiliary lights. I run my stock light plus the stock white fog lights, but I also run a set of Denali D4's, and I'll tell you it's a FACT that people see me and I get way more respect/room, especially from the front. My buddy only has his stock headlight, which for the record, is incredibly dim and not sufficient in any respect. There were times I knew he was behind me but sometimes he would blend in with cars behind him or just fade into the background in my mirrors. Having auxiliary lights is a game changer, on both the front and rear of a bike, and for me it's now a necessity. Great advice and something everyone on two wheels should adhere to. Cheers!
Anecdotally, I've found that the 'visual size' of the bike makes a huge difference to how often motorists will pull into my path - and lighting really helps with that.
Absolutely. I definitely feel less visible on my 450L than on my Africa Twin. The 450 is more nimble and stops quicker, which compensates somewhat, but I'd rather just be seen in the first place.
Darrell installed Aurora lights for me on my 890 at Touratech this year. I was locked out of our trailer after coming back from a ride as my wife was off exploring on her own. Darrell and his lovely wife let me hang out with them and even drink their beer while they were installing! Great folks, great products, they deserve our support!
I put some on my T7 and instantly noticed the difference in cars pausing at junctions and not just pulling out. Apparently the triangle of light makes you appear larger / closer here in the UK the Police call it the "looming effect" I think it also makes it easier for the car driver to judge speed and distance.
I totally agree. I learned it the hard way. Had Aux lights on my bike but did not have turned on and had a van pull out in my lane and I broadsided the van. I also think the yellow color stands out more.
I also thought the fog lights on my Tiger would just be for lighting at night but I find myself using them during the day more than anything. Makes me much more visible and comfortable around traffic. The rear lights are a great idea too!
Setting up the visual triangle is essential to giving oncoming traffic depth perception and speed perception when head on with traffic. Without that you will get many more people trying to turn in front of you because they either thought you were further away or going slower. I think some people can go a little overboard on the auxiliary lights, but SOMETHING to get the visual triangle at night is hugely important. It's why trains have their lights set up this way.
I have this Cyclops triangle on my UK BMW f700GS which certainly makes it look big from the front. I still have had drivers pull out on me so don't assume it is infallible.
I agree, safety my first concern. I was running my auxiliary light flashing amber. I was stopped by a Police Officer, and he informed me that it was illegal. He did not give a ticket. I checked and in Texas this is the law: Texas Transportation Code Chapter 547 Flashing white lights: Flashing white lights are generally prohibited on vehicles in Texas. The only exceptions are for authorized emergency vehicles, certain tow trucks, and escort flag vehicles. Flashing amber lights: Flashing amber lights are permitted on certain vehicles in Texas, such as highway maintenance or construction vehicles and service vehicles. These vehicles may use flashing amber lights when they are stopped or parked in a work zone, or when they are moving slowly in a work zone. It is important to note that the use of flashing white or yellow lights is strictly regulated in Texas. Unauthorized use of these lights can result in a fine of up to $200. Motorcycles may be equipped with solid white lights for ground effect lighting. Ground effect lighting is lighting that is mounted on the underside of the motorcycle and emits a downward-pointing beam of light. The light must be either white or amber, and it must not flash. Motorcycles may also be equipped with solid white lights for auxiliary lamps. Auxiliary lamps are additional lights that are mounted on the front or rear of the motorcycle. They must be either white or amber, and they must not be brighter than the motorcycle's headlights or taillights.
This is true. However the lights shown here do not flash. The flicker is legal in most states and is patented. They do not flash like what the camera shows. Thank you for your input!
RyanF9 also has a video where he describes multiple Tesla's driving into a motorcycle (front & rear), because the system thinks these HORIZONTAL mounted double lights are from a car that is still very far away... !! I put my extra lights vertical (rear and front). Front I run a white & a yellow beam, back a normal and slightly stronger red light, both front & back are VERTICAL aligned. PS; have a look at BICYCLE lights; they are waterproof, very performant LED's that consume little energy (rechargeable battery or 12V powered) and relatively cheap.The rear decelerometer comes from the bicycle world too BTW... PS2; one example; B&L have very professional road legal bicycle lights for a LOT less money...!
I have a different brand setup on my large ADV bike and the first time I rode in the evening I was pretty blown away by how much they improved visibility of the road. I use yellow lenses as well but run the lights down on my fork legs to try and get them as far away from the headlight as possible which improves 'being seen' visibility. I was a little concerned about durability with them being mounted on the fork legs, but I also have sliders on my axles and even after 'many' drops with them on up at Big Lake in September, they stayed put quite nicely. After running them on the bigger ADV I picked up a cheapo $35 set off of Amazon for my KLR (which I use primarily for commuting) and they are pretty great just for 'being seen', but not nearly as functional or easy of an install as the more expensive setup.
I've got the same type of deal on my Versys 1000, hyper yellow lights down low on the engine guards. At night, I've got them set to be slightly dimmer than during the day, so they don't blind people. They make a huge difference.
I wholeheartedly agree with you that visibility is key. Fortnine as you said has an excellent video on invisibility. Unfortunately I am (luckily) here to tell you, if they’re not looking for you they won’t see you. I just recovered from an accident in June in which I was T boned. The police report said that she she didn’t see me until she hit me. 2 headlights. 2 aux lights. Full sunlight. Tiger Explorer 1200 is not a small bike with aluminum panniers. I’m 6’4 230. Make yourself as visible as possible. You said it all. Great video.
Well done dork mann! You are going to save lives old bones don't bend they break. My word is if you cannot afford safety gear you can't afford a bike. Even the prices of ballistic gear is cheaper than a overnight stay in the hospital. Ride on Bro!!!!
I flash my high beams at any, even slightly, sketchy intersection. I have seen _SO_ many brake dives of cars while doing this. It gets people's attention. I learned this after riding an old BMW r60/5 for a few years. It had a very unique horn/highbeam switch that was ergonomically designed to allow flashing the high beam and horn at the same time. There is something to this. I try to wire in a momentary switch that is accessible to me left thumb, to flash the high beams. I'm sure it has saved my life and/or health many times. I don't care if it annoys people.
I've got Auxbeam 110W lights with the yellow lens down low on my crash bars, controlled with the Skene 275-A dimmer controller (with alert function controlled by high beam/horn), white auxiliary lights just below the headlight, wired with my high beam, and a rear plate frame light from Cyclegear. I also use a brake free helmet mounted brake light. I'd love to get the conspicuity lights for both the front and rear of the bike. It makes a huge difference in people seeing me and not pulling out in front of me or getting really close when I'm slowing/stopping. Great video! Thanks for promoting safer riding, so we can all be on the road more frequently and for longer.
back in the 70/80s I ran a 100 watt headlight and as soon as HIDs cam out I started running them and Now it's LEDs and after 50 yrs of riding and over 1 mil miles I have never been hit by anything other then another bike and both times they hit me from the rear and both where people that I ride with... Be seen is the safest way to ride day and night I only made it to 0:11 into your video before I stopped to post this and move on to the next video of the day.. Stay safe and be seen
Being a victim of one old lady and two young girls over the years, my riding is now more 90/10 and the 10 is country roads. I gravitated to Cyclops lights for the bikes and/or helmets years ago for my off-road use. On road I use a low power setting on my helmet. Personally like having vision any direction I look...
Good advice. I have aux lights on both bikes. I have similar brake lites on the back of my Africa Twin. I think the flashing brake lites are illegal in California but I would prefer not getting hit from behind
The more lights the better. Anything to attract attention. On bikes with no aux lights I ride with highbeams all day, and dim after dark (in traffic). Also on bikes where the lights are attached to the forks and not the frame I shake my bars a little coming up to intersections. Don't know if it helps but it makes a little wigwag.
Great vid and an important topic. I ride a KTM 1090, and have made some changes to the lighting. Cyclops leds in the low and high beam positions. Very good, a load of light. I run the low beam full time. Also have Cyclops multi function led indicator lights, another total badass product. BRIGHT white running and amber signal. Also a set of Baja Designs 2" ditch lights mounted fairly low on the crash bars. The point of sharing this is the color of the lighting is a huge deal. I have yellow filters on the headlamps and the ditch lights, and people react and even wave on occasion (form the left turn perspective). A little research shows we have very spacific recepters in our eyes that are "tuned" to greenish yellow. It works. Check it out, save your azz
I’m in Houston and it’s so damn hot during the summer I almost exclusively only ride at night offroad and doing urban exploration. I have very bright lights on my WR450 and Super Tenere 1200
I actually put this to the test this morning. I have aux lights on mr CRF300Rally. And i got in a traffic jam. I had my aux lights on and all 4 blinkers, and 9 out off 10 cars gave me " extra " space. And i was like hmmm what if i only use my blinkers... And people stopped giving me extra space. It really really helps a lot!
Thank you, I have Clearwater yellow aux lights up front and have been looking for a taillight option. I like this setup with 2 lights on either side of the plate. Decelerometer sounds like a good addition also. I’m used to tapping my brake to light my brake light while engine braking and slowing down, but I’m sure I forget sometimes. 2018 Triumph Street Triple.
Excellent and well-reasoned stuff as always. Just one plea to my fellow riders: don't go overboard. If you're adding aux lights for the primary purpose of daytime visibility, which I agree is the most practical one, you really don't need anything crazy bright. More is not better. What you want is physically dispersed light sources with wide beams. I suspect amber filters probably help, too. Many lights on the market now are more than bright enough to dazzle oncoming traffic, even on a sunny day. Worse yet, a beam that's too _directional_ (focused) can do that _and_ be near-invisible to the guy on a side street who's about to T-bone you! By choosing the wrong kit, you are creating a hazard for others as well as annoying them (which breeds ill will toward all of us). Not cool. You're also more likely to eventually get stopped/ticketed if you go nuts. Keep in mind that in the U.S., _most_ modifications to vehicle lighting-even sensible ones-will technically run afoul of DOT regs and many state laws. Just use common sense and you'll probably be fine. Finally, with any electrical accessory it is imperative that you keep tabs on how much total current you're drawing. Every bike's charging system has a certain amount of spare capacity. On touring bikes it's usually fairly generous, whereas on a sportbike or dual-sport it might be just a couple of amps. Lights alone will _probably_ be OK, but if you're also running powered phone/GPS mounts, heated grips/seat/clothing, charging your GoPro battery...you'd better keep track! Overtaxing your stator for any length of time will burn it up and leave you with a dead bike.
Yeah right. I'm going full bright and let them pull me over. All the mammoth 4 wheelers don't seem to care with their blazing lights these days. I have more to lose .Let them squint.
Well, every time I go out at night I'm blinded by many, many newer vehicles . Even Harleys with massive aux lights. I decided I will be seen because its my ass. You can cruise around with your yellow headlamps with 20ft spread not me. I will be just be that A hole on the vstrom. 😄
Earlier in the year, I was in bumper to bumper traffic because of a highway wreck, about 10 cars up ahead of me were two guys on sport tourers with brake light flashers on both bikes. They were incredibly visible and noticeable in the heavy traffic! So have been in the process of adding auxiliary lights (front and back), converting my indicators to running lights, and adding a brake light flasher on my Royal Enfield Meteor 350. Which let me tell you has been a real learning process, there's nothing off-the-shelf for Royal Enfield's, just had to consult my bikes wiring schematic and scrounge the interwebz for parts that might work. One neat trick that I picked up was to take some cheap Amazon flexible LED fork lights and just apply them horizontally to the crash bars, having them act as both driving lights and turn signals. Works great!
Glad you seen the light finally Ben. Lol. I run two sets of auxiliary lights on my AT1100. A set of Denali D4’s that are clear and a set of Denali D3’s with amber lenses. They’re controlled by a Hex EzCan control unit. All 4 of them are on during the daytime at 10% power and when it gets dark enough outside that the headlight is on then on low beam the amber D3’s come on and on high beam those go off and the clear D4’s come on. I have a lot of large wildlife here and I do ride when it’s dark.
I out some lights on my ninja back in 15. My friends said could see me coming behind them even in the sun. I knew I had accomplished what I wanted! The old line see and been seen is a life saver!
We just returned from a two day Baja trip. It was foggy and a little drizzle. These lights do help for oncoming traffic and also for the car you may be following
Agree 100%..even though the new bike has an LED headlight...added 2 46 watt 4" square to the crash bars. On a switch, and not connected to high/low switch. I use them a lot on trails...people see me coming even at a corner, they see me through the woods.
Agreed. I know you're familiar with the KLR650 ADV since you owned one (;>)) - I keep the running lights on full time on that bike and feel like I'm being seen much better by other motorists. I've been doing the same on my HD for years, leaving the running lights on full time - same experience. Peace!
Thanks Ben. I just ordered tail light kits for my bike and my son’s bike. I have been running auxiliary lights up front and I do have a sense that they boost my visibility. I agree with thinking that adding safety gear is much better than hospital stays or repairing the bike! I enjoy your channel, thanks.
Ordering those tail lights with the decelerometer as soon as I'm done typing this out. Thanks for the 20% discount and the head up on these! I wanted to get one of those brake free lights you attach to the back of your helmet, but unfortunately my helmet shape doesn't work with the current light setup. Now I can just add this instead, adding the flicker effect, the directional lights and with the promo code its cheaper than a Brake free light! WIN! THANKS again
Great advice Ben, exactly this kind of content is why I subscribe. Just a note, be aware of your countries design rules, in Australia, our ADR's prohibit flashing taillights. Not sure how you go getting these compliant!
I run the factory Norden 901 aux lights during the day. Noticed a lot less people pull out in front of me with them on. Im eyeballing the Cyclops setup since they have turn signal and amber running lights integrated into them with that really neat awareness mode where the outer amber ring pulses so it gets peoples attention.
This is 100% accurate. I have had many different types of motorcycles. What they all had in common was a single headlight in the front and people pull out in front of you and just don't see you. My latest bike was a Road King with the two driving lights on the front as well as the main mono light. I could immediately tell a difference in the way other drivers saw me. No matter what style bike I own in the future, it will have the two extra driving lights on the front.
Front lighting is super important. Years ago when I was bicycle commuting, I had oncoming traffic pull out to pass right into my lane and blow past me a foot away from me going 70+ in the opposite direction twice in 3 weeks. And it had happened plenty before. That prompted me to begin running a front daytime strobe. After that while I did have people pull out to pass they saw me and pulled back in again.
Yep, I agree, they make a difference for day riding. I have a set of Denali D4s fender mounted on my GSXS1000GT and their rear light set is on order. Bright lights and hi viz gear makes a big difference in terms of safety, day or night, and they're not just for ADV bikes.
I just did a before and after night ride video on my CRF300L. Aux lighting at night is super needed. I really like the rear light and might have to get one of those to help me be seen from behind.
Thanks for this video. I've had a similar experience in how other traffic reacts to aux lights, and now they're one of the first mods I make to a new bike. Two points: the quality of LED lights available online is highly variable. Cyclops and other premium brands use very high quality diodes and it shows. Cheap look-alikes are not worth the $$. Also, I didn't know Cyclops sold tire pressure monitoring systems. I'd been looking, but was disappointed with what I was finding online. As soon as you said that I ordered some from Cyclops. Based on my experience with their lights, I knew they'd be selling a good product. Cheers from another Willamette Valley rider.
Adding aux lighting on my CB500X was transformative, absolutely love them! I did it on the cheap, but the ones I installed were inexpensive and they are very bright. They might not last forever, but I could buy 8 pairs of those lights for what people pay for the "premium" lights
Great video. Visibility is definitely the key. I believe daytime running lights make a difference for sure. I think it also helps having aux lights for nighttime. It may not be normal practice to ride at night but you never know when you might get caught up somewhere and have to ride into the night. 👍
I have been running the skeen lights for probably ten years. I run 2 ribs in the back and 2 ambers in the front which I have hooked up to the rear brake lights. So if I think someone is pulling out in front of me. I will touch the front brake a couple of times Give them a bright amber flash,
Thanks Ben great info I’ve got the KLR650 adventure never used the auxiliary lights… covered them with yellow contact tried them tonight 1st time in the space of 30mins ride about 5 cars flashed me Is it the yellow or the lights to high they seem to be none adjustable up and down No problem during the day great visibility Thanks for all your great content 👍
I run 5 mode LED aux lights AND a set of Cyclops signals. Front turns double as really bright white running lights and rear are running with/sequential brake function. Even blind people move out of my way.
I never really thought that much about auxiliary lights until I had to ride at night with that poor quality OEM CRF250L headlamp in my opinion. I have poor visibility especially at night as well so it might be just me! You however made some very interesting points about daytime usage. Need to look into adding these on my bikes!
I always see touring bikes and some older riders on harly with auxiliary lights they always just seen more noticeable and make it seem like if the bike is bigger always wondered how to put one of theses on a sports bike since I ride in the morning
I have two Lightforce HID lights on the Tiger. At night they light the road up for a mile. I have been told that on a bright sunny day they are nasty bright in mirrors. Set up with a relay so they are controlled by the stock high beam switch. Added LED taillights to the stock taillights. With the stupid cagers on the road, more lights makes you easier to see(hopefully).
Coors light?. Mate you need to get out more 😂. Try a proper British ale or a lush & rich German wheat beer and then you'll know what real beer tastes like or if you're feeling like having the ultimate experience go to Dublin and have a Guinness. Your more than right about the auxiliary lights though. The only time I came off my bike on the road ( i survived with only my pride hurt, though my bike was a Wright off) a van on a grey rainy dull day pulled out of a side street just in front of me. I grabbed so much breaks, front & rear, ( before ABS)that my bike layed over and slid right under the van, thankfully I did not. I think if I'd had more lights he'd have seen me ?. I've a set of Denali fog lights now on my bike i never turn off & convinced they make a difference. I'll have to look into lights for the backside.
Great video safety first especially for a new rider like me! On question, why was is your left turn signal on on the 300l? Is it just a video thing or something else?
15 years ago I nearly lost my life due to a pickup truck turning right in front of me. Of course we have all heard it, I didn't see you. I believe bright lights save lives. I want them to know I'm coming not that I have gone by. Ten years ago I bought 4 LED lights from ADV monster, 2) 3600cp & 2) 2000cp. I now have over 11,000 cp on high beam. 1,100cp is an H4 bulb output. No one has pulled out in front of me since. It may not make you popular but neither do loud pipes.
That conspicuity flicker is absolutely painful to watch. I couldn't inflict that on people behind me. That said, you've inspired me to look up the plug'n'play fog lights for my Valkyrie.
Luckly the flicker can be turned on and off. It's certainly not for everyone, but if it makes you more visible from the back, I highly encourage it. I have personally been rear ended on my bike twice. The flicker does not look like what you see on the camera.
Very useful at night in an area without street lights. I was once driving a small road at night and could not see a coming bend. I got aux lights from that point on. And I set them a bit wide to light the street as I turn. I want to see where I am driving, not just in front. Do any bike turn the headlight as you turn? Besides Harley’s with big headlights attached to the forks of course.
I need some of those P3 lights on my DRZ. A friend I used to ride with ALWAYS rode right on my tail when we were trail riding. It used to annoy the heck out of me because it simply wasn't safe as close as he'd follow me. The blinky flicker would have kept him further back for sure. I used to tap my front brake lever in rapid sucession to activate the brake light periodically in an attempt to keep him off my a$$.
Well, I run aux lights on this advbikes because the first time I got caught by darkness on a ride over some twisty roads I found that those fairing mounted headlights don’t turn with the forks and don’t light up into the corner! Damn! …and yes now that I have aux lights facing into the corners (left and right) I keep them on during the day to add to my safety running lights (headlights)
Well yeah, U-tubers showing riders in black gear and helmets, promoting grey and black riding suits, adventures bikes that come all black or dull blue. I ride orange, wear a red jacket and a white/ coloured helmet. Extra lights do nothing.
Agree on the Helmet, mine is a mix of white light blue and flouro orange and really helps but I've seen bikes coming toward me with aux lights down low and I reckon they increase their visibility 10 times due to the triangle effect, I think that gets less the closer they are to the main lights.
Same here. I don't understand the black helmet out here is the desert. Not only are brighter colors easier to see, but a black helmet and clothing is going to be hotter in the summer.
On a recent ride, one of the bikes had the decelerometer tail light. Super annoying in a group riding situation, it’s equivalent to someone hitting their brakes before every curve.
Having additional lights helps, but it can be overdone. Modulating or flicker lights on your bike may help increase visibility, but IMO they reduce safety. They are visually distracting, which can cause target fixation.
I wish more "cage" (i.e. automobile) drivers would watch this channel. Many (most?) cage drivers don't seem to understand that headlights serve TWO purposes; they allow you to see in the dark, but also allow others to see you. It drives me crazy when I see cage drivers without headlights at dusk... Lights on for (everyone's) safety!!!
I stopped riding for a long time because a lady in a Mercedes and a cell phone came at me hard at a stop light. I'm starting again and won't do it without these lights. Dorks rule.
you forgot to mention that auxilliary lights are helpful in case your headlight bulb blows out. but if your low beam should go out, you can still use your high beams to get you home.
SAVE 20% on www.cyclopsadventuresports.com with promo code "dorkintheroad"
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Stoked about the high visibility lights on the sides of your license plate! Do you have a direct link? I checked the cyclops site but I can’t find these. What are they called?
I wanted to take a moment to thank Ben.
I'm Darryl, I own Cyclops/Skene and extreme dual sport. In 20 plus years in the Motorcycle lighting business this is the first video with great explanations as to why you need extra lighting on a bike that I have seen. I'm not a salesman, I'm a rider who is passionate about what we do, hopefully we make a living at the same time.
Keeping riders safe is our main mission, if you can get more time in the saddle at night that's a big bonus. Personally, I love to ride and race at night, that's why I started Cyclops.
I have to laugh at some of the comments, sometimes a bit off base, (you do know you can dim LED lights, and Cameras cannot pickup LED lights correctly, right?) but that's all good.
I also thank all of you for your feedback and support, that means so much to me and our company.
We have decided to extend the dorkintheroad discount code through DEC.2023
My buddy and I just did a 1,800 mile trip from AL to TX. I am on my GSA and he's on an older Indian Darkhorse. We had this SAME EXACT conversation about auxiliary lights. I run my stock light plus the stock white fog lights, but I also run a set of Denali D4's, and I'll tell you it's a FACT that people see me and I get way more respect/room, especially from the front. My buddy only has his stock headlight, which for the record, is incredibly dim and not sufficient in any respect. There were times I knew he was behind me but sometimes he would blend in with cars behind him or just fade into the background in my mirrors. Having auxiliary lights is a game changer, on both the front and rear of a bike, and for me it's now a necessity. Great advice and something everyone on two wheels should adhere to. Cheers!
Anecdotally, I've found that the 'visual size' of the bike makes a huge difference to how often motorists will pull into my path - and lighting really helps with that.
Absolutely. I definitely feel less visible on my 450L than on my Africa Twin. The 450 is more nimble and stops quicker, which compensates somewhat, but I'd rather just be seen in the first place.
Darrell installed Aurora lights for me on my 890 at Touratech this year. I was locked out of our trailer after coming back from a ride as my wife was off exploring on her own. Darrell and his lovely wife let me hang out with them and even drink their beer while they were installing! Great folks, great products, they deserve our support!
Thank you We had a blast at the TT rally this year.
I put some on my T7 and instantly noticed the difference in cars pausing at junctions and not just pulling out. Apparently the triangle of light makes you appear larger / closer here in the UK the Police call it the "looming effect" I think it also makes it easier for the car driver to judge speed and distance.
Where did you buy your lights and get them installed? I am also in the UK.
I totally agree. I learned it the hard way. Had Aux lights on my bike but did not have turned on and had a van pull out in my lane and I broadsided the van. I also think the yellow color stands out more.
I also thought the fog lights on my Tiger would just be for lighting at night but I find myself using them during the day more than anything. Makes me much more visible and comfortable around traffic. The rear lights are a great idea too!
Setting up the visual triangle is essential to giving oncoming traffic depth perception and speed perception when head on with traffic. Without that you will get many more people trying to turn in front of you because they either thought you were further away or going slower. I think some people can go a little overboard on the auxiliary lights, but SOMETHING to get the visual triangle at night is hugely important. It's why trains have their lights set up this way.
I have this Cyclops triangle on my UK BMW f700GS which certainly makes it look big from the front. I still have had drivers pull out on me so don't assume it is infallible.
@steamixion nothing is infallible. All we can do is hope for the best and plan for the worst.
I agree, safety my first concern. I was running my auxiliary light flashing amber. I was stopped by a Police Officer, and he informed me that it was illegal. He did not give a ticket.
I checked and in Texas this is the law:
Texas Transportation Code Chapter 547
Flashing white lights: Flashing white lights are generally prohibited on vehicles in Texas. The only exceptions are for authorized emergency vehicles, certain tow trucks, and escort flag vehicles.
Flashing amber lights: Flashing amber lights are permitted on certain vehicles in Texas, such as highway maintenance or construction vehicles and service vehicles. These vehicles may use flashing amber lights when they are stopped or parked in a work zone, or when they are moving slowly in a work zone.
It is important to note that the use of flashing white or yellow lights is strictly regulated in Texas. Unauthorized use of these lights can result in a fine of up to $200.
Motorcycles may be equipped with solid white lights for ground effect lighting. Ground effect lighting is lighting that is mounted on the underside of the motorcycle and emits a downward-pointing beam of light. The light must be either white or amber, and it must not flash.
Motorcycles may also be equipped with solid white lights for auxiliary lamps. Auxiliary lamps are additional lights that are mounted on the front or rear of the motorcycle. They must be either white or amber, and they must not be brighter than the motorcycle's headlights or taillights.
This is true. However the lights shown here do not flash. The flicker is legal in most states and is patented. They do not flash like what the camera shows. Thank you for your input!
RyanF9 also has a video where he describes multiple Tesla's driving into a motorcycle (front & rear), because the system thinks these HORIZONTAL mounted double lights are from a car that is still very far away... !! I put my extra lights vertical (rear and front). Front I run a white & a yellow beam, back a normal and slightly stronger red light, both front & back are VERTICAL aligned.
PS; have a look at BICYCLE lights; they are waterproof, very performant LED's that consume little energy (rechargeable battery or 12V powered) and relatively cheap.The rear decelerometer comes from the bicycle world too BTW... PS2; one example; B&L have very professional road legal bicycle lights for a LOT less money...!
I have a different brand setup on my large ADV bike and the first time I rode in the evening I was pretty blown away by how much they improved visibility of the road. I use yellow lenses as well but run the lights down on my fork legs to try and get them as far away from the headlight as possible which improves 'being seen' visibility. I was a little concerned about durability with them being mounted on the fork legs, but I also have sliders on my axles and even after 'many' drops with them on up at Big Lake in September, they stayed put quite nicely. After running them on the bigger ADV I picked up a cheapo $35 set off of Amazon for my KLR (which I use primarily for commuting) and they are pretty great just for 'being seen', but not nearly as functional or easy of an install as the more expensive setup.
I've got the same type of deal on my Versys 1000, hyper yellow lights down low on the engine guards. At night, I've got them set to be slightly dimmer than during the day, so they don't blind people. They make a huge difference.
The team at Cyclops are phenomenal. Extremely helpful during and after owner installs.
I wholeheartedly agree with you that visibility is key. Fortnine as you said has an excellent video on invisibility. Unfortunately I am (luckily) here to tell you, if they’re not looking for you they won’t see you. I just recovered from an accident in June in which I was T boned. The police report said that she she didn’t see me until she hit me. 2 headlights. 2 aux lights. Full sunlight. Tiger Explorer 1200 is not a small bike with aluminum panniers. I’m 6’4 230. Make yourself as visible as possible. You said it all. Great video.
Well said Ben… Especially now that the day is shorter any extra light is a MUST!!
Well done dork mann! You are going to save lives old bones don't bend they break. My word is if you cannot afford safety gear you can't afford a bike. Even the prices of ballistic gear is cheaper than a overnight stay in the hospital. Ride on Bro!!!!
I flash my high beams at any, even slightly, sketchy intersection. I have seen _SO_ many brake dives of cars while doing this. It gets people's attention. I learned this after riding an old BMW r60/5 for a few years. It had a very unique horn/highbeam switch that was ergonomically designed to allow flashing the high beam and horn at the same time. There is something to this. I try to wire in a momentary switch that is accessible to me left thumb, to flash the high beams. I'm sure it has saved my life and/or health many times. I don't care if it annoys people.
I've got Auxbeam 110W lights with the yellow lens down low on my crash bars, controlled with the Skene 275-A dimmer controller (with alert function controlled by high beam/horn), white auxiliary lights just below the headlight, wired with my high beam, and a rear plate frame light from Cyclegear. I also use a brake free helmet mounted brake light. I'd love to get the conspicuity lights for both the front and rear of the bike.
It makes a huge difference in people seeing me and not pulling out in front of me or getting really close when I'm slowing/stopping.
Great video! Thanks for promoting safer riding, so we can all be on the road more frequently and for longer.
back in the 70/80s I ran a 100 watt headlight and as soon as HIDs cam out I started running them and Now it's LEDs and after 50 yrs of riding and over 1 mil miles I have never been hit by anything other then another bike and both times they hit me from the rear and both where people that I ride with... Be seen is the safest way to ride day and night I only made it to 0:11 into your video before I stopped to post this and move on to the next video of the day.. Stay safe and be seen
Being a victim of one old lady and two young girls over the years, my riding is now more 90/10 and the 10 is country roads. I gravitated to Cyclops lights for the bikes and/or helmets years ago for my off-road use. On road I use a low power setting on my helmet. Personally like having vision any direction I look...
Good advice. I have aux lights on both bikes. I have similar brake lites on the back of my Africa Twin. I think the flashing brake lites are illegal in California but I would prefer not getting hit from behind
The more lights the better. Anything to attract attention. On bikes with no aux lights I ride with highbeams all day, and dim after dark (in traffic). Also on bikes where the lights are attached to the forks and not the frame I shake my bars a little coming up to intersections. Don't know if it helps but it makes a little wigwag.
Great vid and an important topic. I ride a KTM 1090, and have made some changes to the lighting. Cyclops leds in the low and high beam positions. Very good, a load of light. I run the low beam full time. Also have Cyclops multi function led indicator lights, another total badass product. BRIGHT white running and amber signal. Also a set of Baja Designs 2" ditch lights mounted fairly low on the crash bars. The point of sharing this is the color of the lighting is a huge deal. I have yellow filters on the headlamps and the ditch lights, and people react and even wave on occasion (form the left turn perspective). A little research shows we have very spacific recepters in our eyes that are "tuned" to greenish yellow. It works. Check it out, save your azz
I’m in Houston and it’s so damn hot during the summer I almost exclusively only ride at night offroad and doing urban exploration.
I have very bright lights on my WR450 and Super Tenere 1200
I definitely need to get some lights for my 390 Adventure. Especially when riding in the desert at night which is "Advanced Darkness".
I actually put this to the test this morning. I have aux lights on mr CRF300Rally. And i got in a traffic jam. I had my aux lights on and all 4 blinkers, and 9 out off 10 cars gave me " extra " space. And i was like hmmm what if i only use my blinkers... And people stopped giving me extra space. It really really helps a lot!
Thanks for the discount code brother. I just ordered a set and saved $80.
I ordered some yesterday with the cyclops code. I mentioned that I saw your video though so maybe they will give you credit.
Awesome!
Thank you, I have Clearwater yellow aux lights up front and have been looking for a taillight option. I like this setup with 2 lights on either side of the plate. Decelerometer sounds like a good addition also. I’m used to tapping my brake to light my brake light while engine braking and slowing down, but I’m sure I forget sometimes. 2018 Triumph Street Triple.
Totally sold! And I’m 20 miles from them so I’ll probably head to the shop and see about filming it. Thanks for the tips!
Excellent and well-reasoned stuff as always. Just one plea to my fellow riders: don't go overboard. If you're adding aux lights for the primary purpose of daytime visibility, which I agree is the most practical one, you really don't need anything crazy bright. More is not better. What you want is physically dispersed light sources with wide beams. I suspect amber filters probably help, too. Many lights on the market now are more than bright enough to dazzle oncoming traffic, even on a sunny day. Worse yet, a beam that's too _directional_ (focused) can do that _and_ be near-invisible to the guy on a side street who's about to T-bone you! By choosing the wrong kit, you are creating a hazard for others as well as annoying them (which breeds ill will toward all of us). Not cool.
You're also more likely to eventually get stopped/ticketed if you go nuts. Keep in mind that in the U.S., _most_ modifications to vehicle lighting-even sensible ones-will technically run afoul of DOT regs and many state laws. Just use common sense and you'll probably be fine.
Finally, with any electrical accessory it is imperative that you keep tabs on how much total current you're drawing. Every bike's charging system has a certain amount of spare capacity. On touring bikes it's usually fairly generous, whereas on a sportbike or dual-sport it might be just a couple of amps. Lights alone will _probably_ be OK, but if you're also running powered phone/GPS mounts, heated grips/seat/clothing, charging your GoPro battery...you'd better keep track! Overtaxing your stator for any length of time will burn it up and leave you with a dead bike.
Yeah right. I'm going full bright and let them pull me over. All the mammoth 4 wheelers don't seem to care with their blazing lights these days. I have more to lose .Let them squint.
@@rvator7291 "Other people are assholes so I'm going to be one, too!". Hey, I bet they're all using similar logic. Carry on, I guess...
Well, every time I go out at night I'm blinded by many, many newer vehicles . Even Harleys with massive aux lights. I decided I will be seen because its my ass. You can cruise around with your yellow headlamps with 20ft spread not me. I will be just be that A hole on the vstrom.
😄
Earlier in the year, I was in bumper to bumper traffic because of a highway wreck, about 10 cars up ahead of me were two guys on sport tourers with brake light flashers on both bikes. They were incredibly visible and noticeable in the heavy traffic! So have been in the process of adding auxiliary lights (front and back), converting my indicators to running lights, and adding a brake light flasher on my Royal Enfield Meteor 350. Which let me tell you has been a real learning process, there's nothing off-the-shelf for Royal Enfield's, just had to consult my bikes wiring schematic and scrounge the interwebz for parts that might work. One neat trick that I picked up was to take some cheap Amazon flexible LED fork lights and just apply them horizontally to the crash bars, having them act as both driving lights and turn signals. Works great!
Just installed the rear light array on my KLX300, super easy to wire up once you have the rear fender off. Great product!
Awesome awesome job getting this information out so many bad and distracted drivers out there anything that aids in me being seen is a must
Glad you seen the light finally Ben. Lol. I run two sets of auxiliary lights on my AT1100. A set of Denali D4’s that are clear and a set of Denali D3’s with amber lenses. They’re controlled by a Hex EzCan control unit. All 4 of them are on during the daytime at 10% power and when it gets dark enough outside that the headlight is on then on low beam the amber D3’s come on and on high beam those go off and the clear D4’s come on. I have a lot of large wildlife here and I do ride when it’s dark.
I out some lights on my ninja back in 15. My friends said could see me coming behind them even in the sun. I knew I had accomplished what I wanted! The old line see and been seen is a life saver!
We just returned from a two day Baja trip. It was foggy and a little drizzle. These lights do help for oncoming traffic and also for the car you may be following
I talked to Cyclops and they said you were working on the TA aux lighting, can't wait to see what you come up with.
Agree 100%..even though the new bike has an LED headlight...added 2 46 watt 4" square to the crash bars. On a switch, and not connected to high/low switch. I use them a lot on trails...people see me coming even at a corner, they see me through the woods.
Just ordered the taillight set. Thanks for the discount code! Ride safe, Tony
I'm happy you were able to take advantage of it
Nice video. My insurance company told me most motorcycle accidents are motorcycles hitting motorcycles…like when you ride in groups.
Just purchased a full kit for my African twin. Thanks for the promo code. I really enjoy your videos
Agreed. I know you're familiar with the KLR650 ADV since you owned one (;>)) - I keep the running lights on full time on that bike and feel like I'm being seen much better by other motorists. I've been doing the same on my HD for years, leaving the running lights on full time - same experience. Peace!
Auxiliary lights are a must for me at night I even have them on my CBR 500R.
Thanks Ben. I just ordered tail light kits for my bike and my son’s bike. I have been running auxiliary lights up front and I do have a sense that they boost my visibility. I agree with thinking that adding safety gear is much better than hospital stays or repairing the bike! I enjoy your channel, thanks.
Ordering those tail lights with the decelerometer as soon as I'm done typing this out. Thanks for the 20% discount and the head up on these! I wanted to get one of those brake free lights you attach to the back of your helmet, but unfortunately my helmet shape doesn't work with the current light setup. Now I can just add this instead, adding the flicker effect, the directional lights and with the promo code its cheaper than a Brake free light! WIN! THANKS again
I use Clearwaters on my GS's and Black Dog makes a great side light indicator as well...good stuff!!
Great advice Ben, exactly this kind of content is why I subscribe. Just a note, be aware of your countries design rules, in Australia, our ADR's prohibit flashing taillights. Not sure how you go getting these compliant!
They're not flashing, they're "flickering" lol
@DorkintheRoad and that is probably enough of a difference Ben.
Darryl and Sandra at Cyclops are awesome! Recommend them 💯.
Completely agree.
I run the factory Norden 901 aux lights during the day. Noticed a lot less people pull out in front of me with them on. Im eyeballing the Cyclops setup since they have turn signal and amber running lights integrated into them with that really neat awareness mode where the outer amber ring pulses so it gets peoples attention.
This is 100% accurate. I have had many different types of motorcycles. What they all had in common was a single headlight in the front and people pull out in front of you and just don't see you. My latest bike was a Road King with the two driving lights on the front as well as the main mono light. I could immediately tell a difference in the way other drivers saw me. No matter what style bike I own in the future, it will have the two extra driving lights on the front.
I couldn't agree more. The difference has been very obvious and I love being able to see better.
Front lighting is super important. Years ago when I was bicycle commuting, I had oncoming traffic pull out to pass right into my lane and blow past me a foot away from me going 70+ in the opposite direction twice in 3 weeks. And it had happened plenty before. That prompted me to begin running a front daytime strobe. After that while I did have people pull out to pass they saw me and pulled back in again.
Yep, I agree, they make a difference for day riding. I have a set of Denali D4s fender mounted on my GSXS1000GT and their rear light set is on order. Bright lights and hi viz gear makes a big difference in terms of safety, day or night, and they're not just for ADV bikes.
I just did a before and after night ride video on my CRF300L. Aux lighting at night is super needed. I really like the rear light and might have to get one of those to help me be seen from behind.
My bike is almost a year old and I’ve put 6k road miles on it. I turned my aux lights on when I first bought the bike and NEVER turned them off!
Thanks for this video. I've had a similar experience in how other traffic reacts to aux lights, and now they're one of the first mods I make to a new bike. Two points: the quality of LED lights available online is highly variable. Cyclops and other premium brands use very high quality diodes and it shows. Cheap look-alikes are not worth the $$. Also, I didn't know Cyclops sold tire pressure monitoring systems. I'd been looking, but was disappointed with what I was finding online. As soon as you said that I ordered some from Cyclops. Based on my experience with their lights, I knew they'd be selling a good product. Cheers from another Willamette Valley rider.
Adding aux lighting on my CB500X was transformative, absolutely love them! I did it on the cheap, but the ones I installed were inexpensive and they are very bright. They might not last forever, but I could buy 8 pairs of those lights for what people pay for the "premium" lights
Good info. I got a holed at a Wendy's drive through one day. My bike is loud so you can here me coming. Ride safe my 2 wheel friends.
Great video. Visibility is definitely the key.
I believe daytime running lights make a difference for sure. I think it also helps having aux lights for nighttime. It may not be normal practice to ride at night but you never know when you might get caught up somewhere and have to ride into the night. 👍
I have Danali D4's with yellow lenses. I've noticed that even in the daytime, I'm getting more attention of drivers. Shine 'em if you got 'em.
I have been running the skeen lights for probably ten years. I run 2 ribs in the back and 2 ambers in the front which I have hooked up to the rear brake lights. So if I think someone is pulling out in front of me. I will touch the front brake a couple of times Give them a bright amber flash,
Thanks Ben great info I’ve got the KLR650 adventure never used the auxiliary lights… covered them with yellow contact tried them tonight 1st time in the space of 30mins ride about 5 cars flashed me
Is it the yellow or the lights to high they seem to be none adjustable up and down
No problem during the day great visibility
Thanks for all your great content 👍
I run 5 mode LED aux lights AND a set of Cyclops signals. Front turns double as really bright white running lights and rear are running with/sequential brake function. Even blind people move out of my way.
I never really thought that much about auxiliary lights until I had to ride at night with that poor quality OEM CRF250L headlamp in my opinion. I have poor visibility especially at night as well so it might be just me! You however made some very interesting points about daytime usage. Need to look into adding these on my bikes!
I always see touring bikes and some older riders on harly with auxiliary lights they always just seen more noticeable and make it seem like if the bike is bigger always wondered how to put one of theses on a sports bike since I ride in the morning
I have two Lightforce HID lights on the Tiger. At night they light the road up for a mile. I have been told that on a bright sunny day they are nasty bright in mirrors. Set up with a relay so they are controlled by the stock high beam switch. Added LED taillights to the stock taillights. With the stupid cagers on the road, more lights makes you easier to see(hopefully).
I'm not knocking you, but remember you can't be seen if you are blinding other drivers! 😊
People say loud pipes saves lives, but nobody ever says they didn't hear you, they always say they didn't see you.
loud pipes just pi$$ people off
Excellent! Just purchased the tail light kit with all the add-ons! I feel safer already!! 🙂
3:00
*chuckles nervously, looking out at my 01 dodge truck* 😅😅
Coors light?. Mate you need to get out more 😂. Try a proper British ale or a lush & rich German wheat beer and then you'll know what real beer tastes like or if you're feeling like having the ultimate experience go to Dublin and have a Guinness.
Your more than right about the auxiliary lights though. The only time I came off my bike on the road ( i survived with only my pride hurt, though my bike was a Wright off) a van on a grey rainy dull day pulled out of a side street just in front of me. I grabbed so much breaks, front & rear, ( before ABS)that my bike layed over and slid right under the van, thankfully I did not. I think if I'd had more lights he'd have seen me ?. I've a set of Denali fog lights now on my bike i never turn off & convinced they make a difference. I'll have to look into lights for the backside.
Great video safety first especially for a new rider like me! On question, why was is your left turn signal on on the 300l? Is it just a video thing or something else?
It's a daytime running light. It's always on, the right one is just broken lol
15 years ago I nearly lost my life due to a pickup truck turning right in front of me. Of course we have all heard it, I didn't see you. I believe bright lights save lives. I want them to know I'm coming not that I have gone by. Ten years ago I bought 4 LED lights from ADV monster, 2) 3600cp & 2) 2000cp. I now have over 11,000 cp on high beam. 1,100cp is an H4 bulb output. No one has pulled out in front of me since. It may not make you popular but neither do loud pipes.
I recently bought a new bike that has really bright led DLRs and amber marker lights from factory and i noticed the difference immediately riding.
Thank you for the great information Ben.
Thanks DITR. Great job. Good info. God bless. Happy trails.
That conspicuity flicker is absolutely painful to watch. I couldn't inflict that on people behind me. That said, you've inspired me to look up the plug'n'play fog lights for my Valkyrie.
Luckly the flicker can be turned on and off. It's certainly not for everyone, but if it makes you more visible from the back, I highly encourage it. I have personally been rear ended on my bike twice. The flicker does not look like what you see on the camera.
Very useful at night in an area without street lights. I was once driving a small road at night and could not see a coming bend. I got aux lights from that point on.
And I set them a bit wide to light the street as I turn. I want to see where I am driving, not just in front.
Do any bike turn the headlight as you turn? Besides Harley’s with big headlights attached to the forks of course.
Just ordered the tail lights with the deceleration feature and turn signals using your code. Saved the price of the upgrades. Thanks
Just bought the lights due to your other video! Wish I had the code last night. Nice job on video, good explanation
Might be worth sending an email to ask?
Extra Lights Help a lot for those Crazy Cagers .....Thanks Dork..
Excellent stuff thank you very much!
From Omaha Nebraska
"Turns out it was just Harleys" *shakes head*
So hilarious. Great video Dork. 🤣
I need some of those P3 lights on my DRZ. A friend I used to ride with ALWAYS rode right on my tail when we were trail riding. It used to annoy the heck out of me because it simply wasn't safe as close as he'd follow me. The blinky flicker would have kept him further back for sure.
I used to tap my front brake lever in rapid sucession to activate the brake light periodically in an attempt to keep him off my a$$.
Totally getting that set up. Thx
Well, I run aux lights on this advbikes because the first time I got caught by darkness on a ride over some twisty roads I found that those fairing mounted headlights don’t turn with the forks and don’t light up into the corner! Damn!
…and yes now that I have aux lights facing into the corners (left and right) I keep them on during the day to add to my safety running lights (headlights)
This going to need to be an early investment for me, especially before I try riding through urban areas.
I leave my GSA aux lights on all the time to be visible. I'm in Australia so no one rides at night for obvious reasons here.
Well yeah, U-tubers showing riders in black gear and helmets, promoting grey and black riding suits, adventures bikes that come all black or dull blue. I ride orange, wear a red jacket and a white/ coloured helmet. Extra lights do nothing.
Agree on the Helmet, mine is a mix of white light blue and flouro orange and really helps but I've seen bikes coming toward me with aux lights down low and I reckon they increase their visibility 10 times due to the triangle effect, I think that gets less the closer they are to the main lights.
Same here. I don't understand the black helmet out here is the desert. Not only are brighter colors easier to see, but a black helmet and clothing is going to be hotter in the summer.
"Turns out I'm the one that was dumb" is unfortunately the answer to many of my problems.
Too bad most people never realize it, lol.
Excellent advice video. Liked.
On a recent ride, one of the bikes had the decelerometer tail light. Super annoying in a group riding situation, it’s equivalent to someone hitting their brakes before every curve.
But you definitely noticed it every time, didn't you?
Skene P3 would be illegal here in australia, due to "flashing red lights on a vehicle other than an emergency services vehicle"
Having additional lights helps, but it can be overdone. Modulating or flicker lights on your bike may help increase visibility, but IMO they reduce safety. They are visually distracting, which can cause target fixation.
I wish more "cage" (i.e. automobile) drivers would watch this channel. Many (most?) cage drivers don't seem to understand that headlights serve TWO purposes; they allow you to see in the dark, but also allow others to see you. It drives me crazy when I see cage drivers without headlights at dusk...
Lights on for (everyone's) safety!!!
I stopped riding for a long time because a lady in a Mercedes and a cell phone came at me hard at a stop light. I'm starting again and won't do it without these lights. Dorks rule.
Coors Light is the "Good Stuff"?
you forgot to mention that auxilliary lights are helpful in case your headlight bulb blows out. but if your low beam should go out, you can still use your high beams to get you home.
Idk if it’s the camera or not but those lights on the license plate look like they may cause confusion. Looks like you have your turn signal on.
As a DR650 owner, aux light and led conversions are a requirement for me. The stock 5x7 is laughable at best. Especially at night or low visibility.