Pulsating/flashing brake light module;legal/illegal

[470004]

I am considing installing the Kuryakyn Pulsating/Flashing rear brake module. I live in New York State and wondering if they are legal or illegal here. I will be keeping the stock rear brake lights.

 

[GARYD]

I had the Hyper-Lites on my bike for years and traveled all over. Never had a problem. Whether pulsating brake lights are illegal in some states I don't know. What would be the difference between that and the rider pumping the brakes???

I know modulating headlights are legal - there is even a DOT spec sheet that you can carry with you in case a LEO stops you.

I'd call the state police and ask.

 

[m&lg]

This site can be used for any state.

http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/Rights/State-Laws.aspx?stateid=32

It doesn't directly answer your question though.

 

[HDB0B]

It is my understanding ....

Brake light pulsing is a non-issue.

It is the pulsing headlamps that have state by state laws.

I use Radiantz strobe LED tail lamp units (P/N 9903-18) for my 2014. BEST $200 mod on the trike!!!!!!! Remove old units / put on new units = PLUG & PLAY.

Bob orag:

 

[Lucky]

Plusating headlights are illegal in ALABAMER. RIDE SAFE

 

[GARYD]

Interesting. I thought I read somewhere the DOT said they are OK for all states and issued a memo to that effect.
I wish I could find that memo - I printed it out years ago, but never got around to installing the headlight modulator.

 

[470004]

Thanks all!

 

[87Trike1200]

Gary - I believe you are correct. It is my understanding that, regardless of state "rules", the Federal DOT approval of modulating headlights supersedes any State regulations. I guess "we" might have to explain it to the Judge, but to my knowledge, they're OK.

I'll try to find my printout OR maybe someone here has the link to the DOT approval. Fed rules "over rule" the State...

Also, my 2012 MotorTrike Phoenix kit came with (not an option) a pulsating brake light - it flashes about 3 times very quickly, then stays on. I've never had a problem from LEO's.

 

[Illini_Triker]

Modulating headlight permitted per Code of Federal Regulations, Title 49, 571.108

 

[87Trike1200]

Modulating headlight permitted per Code of Federal Regulations, Title 49, 571.108

Thank you for the link.

To take it 1 step further: 571.108 - Page 243 - S5.5.10 (c) talks about motorcycle headlamps.