I suggest that there are two issues being discussed. The vehicle regulations are indeed distinctly inadequate, as mentioned above 30w or similar refers to consumption, lumens refers to emitted light. Most MOT men shrug at what is written down and check that all lights work and the headlights are correctly lined up. The point about the Blackpool lights strung up across an SUV satisfying construction & use regs is valid, is there no restriction on area of lighting, or height above ground?
The last Measham was a mess. Just thinking about getting a copy of the Blue Book off the bookshelf gives me a headache. MSUK regs are far from clear cut, those relating to stage rallies having peripheral significance for night nav events. Neither of Martin Jelley’s rallies pre or post the Measham banned cars with LEDs. MCC trials through the night do not ban cars or bikes withLEDs. The MACdid not tell early competitors not to leave the Squirrel car park illuminated with LEDs or forbid late finishers to return with such lights. For the Measham there was an understandable sensitivity from the RLO and others about stage rally boys passing through villages and hamlets with a great range of Cibies, which to avoid upsetting people, rally regs tell them not to use on the public roads. How that became an issue for our machines remains a puzzle.
I completely agree with the sentiments much expressed above. LEDs let me see where I am going, and they allow my Ruby to run with original 6v Dynamo and electrics. The rear lights tell other road users that I am in front of them.
The last Measham was a mess. Just thinking about getting a copy of the Blue Book off the bookshelf gives me a headache. MSUK regs are far from clear cut, those relating to stage rallies having peripheral significance for night nav events. Neither of Martin Jelley’s rallies pre or post the Measham banned cars with LEDs. MCC trials through the night do not ban cars or bikes withLEDs. The MACdid not tell early competitors not to leave the Squirrel car park illuminated with LEDs or forbid late finishers to return with such lights. For the Measham there was an understandable sensitivity from the RLO and others about stage rally boys passing through villages and hamlets with a great range of Cibies, which to avoid upsetting people, rally regs tell them not to use on the public roads. How that became an issue for our machines remains a puzzle.
I completely agree with the sentiments much expressed above. LEDs let me see where I am going, and they allow my Ruby to run with original 6v Dynamo and electrics. The rear lights tell other road users that I am in front of them.