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From: jerem@tekgvs.UUCP (Jere Marrs)
Newsgroups: net.cycle
Subject: Re: Automatic High Beam Flashers
Message-ID: <1216@tekgvs.UUCP>
Date: Thu, 12-Sep-85 02:30:45 EDT
Article-I.D.: tekgvs.1216
Posted: Thu Sep 12 02:30:45 1985
Date-Received: Sat, 14-Sep-85 06:44:57 EDT
References: <692@ihu1g.UUCP>
Reply-To: jerem@tekgvs.UUCP (Jere Marrs)
Distribution: net
Organization: Tektronix, Beaverton OR
Lines: 34

In article <692@ihu1g.UUCP> rls@ihu1g.UUCP (r.l. schieve) writes:
>While driving to work (into the sun) Friday morning I was
>surprized to notice glare in my rear view mirror from the
>cycle behind me.                                             
                            ....determined from the reflection
>off the back of other cars and signs that the bikes low beam
>was on and the bright beam was flashing on and off at about
>a half second rate.                                           
>
>I have been told by others that these circuits are available.
>Are these high beam flashers really legal? 
>
	There are headlight modulators available which modulate the
intensity of the *LOW BEAM* of the motorcycle headlight. These most
definitely make the machine more noticeable (more later). If the
motorcycle you saw actually flashed the high and low beams alternately,
that would be obnoxious. I know of no commercial device that does this.

	The legality of the *LOW BEAM* modulators has been an issue in
several states, but I believe that has been resolved. It is legal here
in Oregon.

	Now, regarding the issue of 'profile:' From my experience, the
'cyclist that chooses to take the 'low profile' will end up with the
short end of the stick. If the drivers don't see you, you are vulnerable
to the ineptitude of the automobilists. They tend to change lanes in a
cavalier manner among other horrible things. Granted, certain drivers
wish motorcyclists ill-will, but they are a small minority. Most people
who *see* you will not wilfully do you harm. The chances of safe 
passage are greatest if you are seen.

			Jere M. Marrs
			Tektronix, Inc.
		ihnp4!tektronix!tekcrl!tekgvs!jerem