Am thinking of having an auto headlight modulator installed to increase visibility of my '93 ST11. Thoughts on brand to use, source, logic of doing the installation, etc?
Thanks,
Tim
AtlantaST
I used the comagination modulator for 3 years, it failed and was replaced for 50.00 bucks!. The installation is plug-and-play. I'm also in Camp #2 in that I believe it adds to visibility, keeping at least some of the left-turners out of my way.
You can drop the reference to "auto" in the description as the Federal Regulations authorizing motorcycle use specificially prohibit its use on autos.
Jim
I consider HL modulators to be the "loud pipes" of touring bikes. Users of them think they are benefiting from them, but all they are doing is ticking off other riders and cage drivers. We don't need more people angry at riders. I won't allow anyone behind me with one, and I doubt I would even ride in a group with someone with one. Whether I'm in a cage or on the bike, if someone comes up behind me with one, I'll slow until they pass, and they will get a salute from me showing my displeasure.
There are better ways to make yourself seen. Its amazing how many people use HL modulators, but wear black clothing and helmets.
I consider HL modulators to be the "loud pipes" of touring bikes. Users of them think they are benefiting from them, but all they are doing is ticking off other riders and cage drivers. We don't need more people angry at riders. I won't allow anyone behind me with one, and I doubt I would even ride in a group with someone with one. Whether I'm in a cage or on the bike, if someone comes up behind me with one, I'll slow until they pass, and they will get a salute from me showing my displeasure.
There are better ways to make yourself seen. Its amazing how many people use HL modulators, but wear black clothing and helmets.
I think a modulator is an EXCELLENT RESOURCE....but it should not be left on when you ride. I use a modulator to alert an oncoming car that I feel might be turning in front of me...then I turn it off (mine only activates when I turn on the high beams, and has an automatic photo sensor to turn it off at dusk when normal lights are needed. I KNOW my modulator has prevented more than one potential "left hand turn" evasion by me. When people see you, it changes the game. I have seen people on phones and texting while signaling a turn, YIKES. I think a modulator needs to be used wisely, flicking it on and off appropriately. Riding with it on continuously might create new hazards. All of us are doing the best we can. I don't feel a "one finger salute" is ever useful (it might make you feel superior or "better" for a moment, but every negative act has ripples that are negative as well). If you feel someone is being rude with their modulators, discuss it with them....many with headlight modulators have never been followed by someone using the devices...in other words they just don't know. Head-on, these are not too distracting because they are gone so quickly. Even this discussion is a great step forward in educating the riding community to the optimal use of headlight modulators. Cheers and safe riding....just one opinion from the frozen north- Brad in Duluth (come on SPRING!).