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Long story short: Are you seeking information on motorcycle headlights? Look no further! This comprehensive guide has everything you need to make an informed decision.
Headlights for bikes are always like eyes for humans. When the sun goes down, we have to rely on headlights to navigate our way to the destination. Headlights are so important; different kinds of headlights are available in the market, such as LED headlights, halogen headlights, projector headlights, etc. As motorcycle owners, we should know which ones are in the market. Also, the bike owner must know the pros and cons of every kind of headlight.
In this article, our discussion will be on matters like types of motorcycle headlights, things to know while adding custom headlamps, and tips to extend the lifespan of your motorcycle headlight. So this is a comprehensive buying guide for you, by all means, taking in all aspects. First, we will learn the basics of motorcycle headlights and how they work.
How does a motorcycle headlight work?
When the engine is on, the motorcycle headlight and all other electrical components are powered by an alternator. An alternator is an integral part of every combustion engine vehicle. It converts chemical energy to electrical energy so that you can charge and replenish the battery in your engine and other electrical components in a motorcycle.
When the engine is off, the battery is powered by the motorcycle headlight and all other electrical components. However, this power lasts only a limited amount of time and can damage the battery if used for a prolonged period. So be careful not to switch on the headlight after the engine is off, as this will damage the battery.
Different types of motorcycle headlight
Halogen headlights
These headlights are the most commonly used for motorcycles in India, and there are different types of motorcycle headlights. They are easy to replace and readily available in the market. While they produce sufficient light, they are not the brightest option available. Many riders prefer to switch to headlights with more colourful and longer-lasting bulbs. A halogen headlights bulb comprises a tungsten filament and a small amount of halogen gas. When an electric current flows through it, the filament heats up and emits light.
Pros of Halogen headlights
- Easy to replace
- Readily available in the market
- Cheap
Cons of Halogen headLights
- Do not produce enough light
- Shorter lifespan compared to other lights
LED Lights
These lights have gained popularity among motorcycle owners due to their brightness and durability. Unlike traditional headlights, LED lights do not need frequent replacement. However, it is essential to consider that LED lights can be very bright, potentially affecting the visibility of oncoming traffic. One advantage of LED headlights is that they offer a wide range of brightness levels and light temperatures, allowing users to customize their lighting preferences. Additionally, LED lights have a longer lifespan than halogen or Xenon HID bulbs and consume less power, making them more energy-efficient.
Pros of LED motorcycle headlight
- Superior brightness and clarity
- Energy-efficient, consuming less power
- Long lifespan and durability
Cons of LED Lights
- Expensive compared to Halogen lights
- LED lights can be very bright, making it harder for oncoming traffic
Xenon HID Lights
For those who prefer a longer lifespan and a softer colour temperature, Xenon High-Intensity Discharge (HID) lights are a great option. These lights still provide ample brightness, but the gas inside the bulb creates a more calming tone for better visibility. Additionally, Xenon HID lights have a much longer lifespan than halogen lights. However, it is recommended to have a professional install these lights to avoid any potential issues.
Like halogen headlights, Xenon or HID bulbs also use a tungsten filament. However, while halogen bulbs are filled with halogen gas, HID bulbs are filled with Xenon gas. The light emitted from Xenon HID lights has a bluer colour temperature, unlike the warmer hues of standard halogens. Instead of heating the gas, the Xenon gas glows when a current is applied, resulting in less heat generated and a longer-lasting bulb.
Pros of Xenon HID Lights
- Very long-lasting
- Bright and comfortable
Cons of Xenon HID Lights
- Expensive
- Need a professional to install the Xenon HID lights
Projector Headlights
Projector headlights use a lens to focus the light beam, providing a more directed and intense light. They are often combined with HID or LED bulbs for enhanced visibility.
Pros of Projector Headlights
- Focused and intense light beam
- Enhanced visibility
Cons of Projector Headlights
- More complex and potentially more expensive than reflector headlamps
Reflector Headlamps
Reflector headlamps use a reflective housing to direct the light from a tungsten filament bulb. They are less expensive but do not offer the same level of brightness and focus as projector headlights.
Pros of Reflector Headlamps
- Less expensive
- Simple design
Pros of Reflector Headlamps
- Lower brightness and focus compared to projector headlights
Motorcycle headlight care tips and tricks to extend the lifespan
Legal Requirements for Motorcycle Headlights in India
Mandatory AHO (Automatic Headlamp On) Headlights
In India, all motorcycles must have a white light headlight visible from a distance of 150 meters and a red light tail lamp visible from a distance of 150 meters. In 2024, new motorcycles must have headlights that switch automatically when the ignition is turned on.
Brightness and Color Regulations
Motorcycle headlights should not be so bright that they dazzle or cause discomfort to other road users. Coloured headlights, other than white, are not permitted as they may distract and affect the bike’s visibility to other road users.
Aftermarket Headlights
Aftermarket headlights are allowed as long as they meet the prescribed standards set by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and are correctly installed.
High Beam Usage
It is illegal to use high-beam headlights within city limits or well-lit areas. High beams should only be used in unlit areas outside city limits.
Daytime Running Lights
From 2024, motorcycles must have headlights on at all times, including during the day, to increase visibility and reduce the likelihood of accidents.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Non-compliance with bike headlight regulations can lead to penalties, fines, and potential legal action. Ensuring that your bike’s headlights meet the required standards is essential.
Motorcycle headlight care tips and tricks to extend the lifespan
- When fitting custom headlights or headlights with high-power output, check whether the battery can handle the headlight.
- When checking headlights, the first thing to do is inspect the lenses: Are they crystal clear, or do you see some fogginess and yellowing? Headlight lenses tend to become cloudy over prolonged usage and diffuse the beams of your headlights. It would be best if you cleaned them properly, which is explained below in detail.
- Check whether the beam is aimed well when checking for brightness. If one finds the brightness of the lights inadequate, replace the bulbs with more powerful ones.
- Ensure the beam spread on the low beam is as far as possible so that the range of your visibility increases. If your indicators are cracked, replace them rather than taping them.
- Always try to switch off the headlight before switching off the engine, as this can increase the lifespan of the headlamp.
- Do not leave the headlight on after the engine is switched off, as this can drain the battery and damage the same.
How to clean motorcycle headlight lens
Suppose the motorcycle headlight lens is not cloudy. In that case, you can buy premium bike wash liquids from companies like 3M, etc., and apply them to wash the motorcycle.
If the motorcycle headlight lens is cloudy, several methods exist to clean the bike headlight.
- Toothpaste, Baking soda and a clean piece of cloth
- Soap, sandpaper & polishing compound
- WD-40
- Vinegar and soap
- Aftermarket metal polish
- Shampoo and water
- Glass cleaners & rubbing pads
FAQ about bike headlight
Which headlight is the brightest?
LED headlights are the brightest among motorcycle headlights.
Which headlight is the most affordable?
Halogen headlights are the most affordable ones among bike headlights.
Which headlight is the most expensive?
LED headlights are the most expensive among motorcycle headlights.
Which headlight has the most lifespan?
LED headlights have the most lifespan among bike headlights.
How to adjust a motorcycle headlight?
Only the beam of the motorcycle headlight can be adjusted or aimed well. If the brightness of the lights is inadequate, replace the bulbs with more powerful ones.
How to measure motorcycle headlight size?
Take a measuring tape and keep one end on one of the edges of the headlight rim and the other end on any other part of the edge. The measured value is the diameter of the headlight, which is also the size.
How to make motorcycle headlights brighter?
To make motorcycle headlights brighter, you should upgrade the light to a better one like LED’s or HIDs.
Are motorcycle headlights always on?
Yes. As per the latest rules from the government of India, all new bikes in India must have the All Time Headlamp On (AHO) feature integrated, which ensures the headlamp is always on and that there is no switch to turn off the headlight.
Is it illegal to ride a motorcycle without a headlight?
Yes, a roadworthy and legal bike should have a headlight installed and work correctly.
Why do some people put tape on motorcycle headlights?
This is done to prevent broken glass shards from getting over them and their fellow riders in case any accident happens.
Why does the motorcycle headlight flicker?
Motorcycle headlight flickers due to various reasons, and some of the reasons are
- Ageing battery
- Failing alternator
- Faulty bulbs or lamps
- Loose connection or fuses
- Bad wiring
- Faulty headlamp switch
Other related articles from Bikeleague India
- How to extend the life of your motorcycle battery
- Top 5 most expensive bikes in India
- The ultimate guide to defensive driving for bikers in India
- BMW R 1250 RT
- Okaya Faast F2F
Conclusion
Throughout this article, we discussed everything we must know about different types of motorcycle headlights and much more in India. If you have any other doubts or queries, email us at bikeleague2017@gmail.com or share your doubts or opinions in the comments section below. We are always eager to help and assist you. Also, here are several social media platforms of Bikeleague India to raise your suspicions.
