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Flashing Bicycle LED's on Motorcycles?

flying_hun

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May 4, 2005
Location
Orinda, CA
Moto(s)
A funky red & white Italian named Gianni Cervo! Versys - two of 'em! And a Ducati for laughs.
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AMA #: 281672
The other day I was out riding and saw a moto coming that other way that was sporting a white/clear flashing LED like those often seen on bicycles. It certainly got my attention, but it would be interesting to know whether it's legal. It might discourage right of way violators. :dunno So BARF LEO's, what say you, legal or not?

While on the topic, is it correct to assume that those flashing red or amber LED's also often seen on bicycles would be illegal if mounted on a moto? Not saying I'd do it, just curious.
 
Headlight modulators are legal in all 50. Is there something in the regs limiting the flashing to the headlight only? (Probably is.)
 
Yeah, I was kind of hoping for a CVC number.
 
I've thought about doing that. I don't see why making yourself more visible would be illegal, unless you are blinding others. If that was the case it would be illegal for bicycles too, would it not? Of course, the law is not always logical.
 
Yeah, I was kind of hoping for a CVC number.

24003. No vehicle shall be equipped with any lamp or illuminating
device not required or permitted in this code
, nor shall any lamp or
illuminating device be mounted inside a vehicle unless specifically
permitted by this code. This section does not apply to:
(a) Interior lamps such as door, brake and instrument lamps, and
map, dash, and dome lamps designed and used for the purpose of
illuminating the interior of the vehicle.
(b) Lamps needed in the operation or utilization of those vehicles
mentioned in Section 25801, or vehicles used by public utilities in
the repair or maintenance of their service, or used only for the
illumination of cargo space of a vehicle while loading or unloading.
(c) Warning lamps mounted inside an authorized emergency vehicle
and meeting requirements established by the department.
 
Thank you.
 
So fog lights and any other auxiliary lights are illegal?
What is the self-referential code?
 
I've thought about doing that. I don't see why making yourself more visible would be illegal, unless you are blinding others. If that was the case it would be illegal for bicycles too, would it not? Of course, the law is not always logical.

Correct. They're not legal on bicycles either.
 
So just wear the flashing light on your jacket or backpack. CVC does not cover the driver's clothing (other than temple width of glasses).
 
So just wear the flashing light on your jacket or backpack. CVC does not cover the driver's clothing (other than temple width of glasses).

I have a red bicycle light attached to my jacket. I leave it on the non-flashing mode though..
 
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