Do you use your highbeams during the day?

Absolutely!!!! Any visibility advantage helps, the DMV in my state even recomends running high beams on a motorcycle during daylight hours.

http://www.dds.ga.gov/docs/forms/MotorManual.pdf check page 22.

 

As the man states, absolutely! DMV's and even the Basic Rider Courses tell you to use it. I'm sure some feel you shouldn't but I do.

 

I use them occasionally. On part of my commute, I pass several two way stops that cross the main road I traverse. In the afternoons there are always a few cars ready to enter, so I ride with highs to be seen earlier.
I never do it on the highway or on other main stretches that are divided and have few intersections, and rarely in residntial areas with low speed limits.

 

Before daytime running lights on autos, DOT required that all motorcycles have a working headlight - specifically for more visibility.

Now that most autos, have DRL's, motorcycles are encouraged to run with high-beams during the day - or even a headlight modulator. Again - specifically for more visibility.

That's why I'm not opposed to buying a Hi-Viz yellow jacket. You may think it's ugly - but at least you see me!!!!

I'd rather be wearing an ugly jacket and riding, than wearing a black jacket and 6 feet under.

 

I used to think about doing this, but thanks for the reminder. I will start riding with my high beams on as well. Safety is my middle name .

 

I think the 6th gens twin low beam is enough. High beam would just annoy other drivers(or riders).
If I had a bike with a single headlamp i would definately use high beam in daylight.

 

I always run on high during the day. I want cagers to think that I am a freight train coming down the road.

 

I ride on low and flick high/low at the couple intersections in the AM.

Headlight modulators make a bigger difference than a constant beam... but have not done that mod yet. The changing intensity is what gets the pom-pom attention effect imho.

-Paul

 

I don't flick my light. To some drivers that might say "come on out". To truckers, a light flick says exactly that. Those modulators are ok, as long as they aren't behind me.

 

LOL! I like that idea.

 

Good point Eddie. but if the do come out after seeing me, then we are fine since I'm riding with two fingers on the brake and have seen the car at the intersection.

Having only single beams before I've thought two was twice as good, now you want me to be four eyes.

Yeah, the modulator is annoying.... it's supposed to be. I'm guessing the HID modulator would be insanely annoying.

 

I am with GTI. I think the Gen 6 low beam lights are pretty bright anyway. Having said that I do flash my lights in high risk situations and have been seriously considering both headlight and brakelight modulators. It is pretty hard to be too visible on a motorcycle. So...... maybe I will change my mind.

 

For me it depends on what bike I'm riding. On my 06 GSXR the lights are really clear and bright so I run them on low during the day. I think I read somewhere that it's harder for cagers to judge distance and speed if they are getting beamed in the eyes by the newer lights. On my 93 VFR and on my scooters I know the lights aren't as bright or clear so I run them on Hi during the day.

 

I guess I expect most cars to pull out in front, turn left, merge into "my" lane ever time and plan for an escape route. It is the ones that I don't see and that don't see me that are the problem.

You guys are correct that flashing the lights can insight behavior from other motorists. I guess it depends on the context and situation as to when it is a good/bad idea.

 

Anymore I ride with the Highbeams on, and my thumb on the horn button. These IDIOT cagers are always foolin with the radio, puttin on makeup, or yackin on a stupid cell phone. I am usually surprised when they DON'T pull out in front of me. I'm sure I'd be in jail if I were a cop. I'd beat the crap out of idiots all day long. Starting with these old codgers who pull right out in front of you and go 15 MPH.