Masking headlight for Europe

[Mick_rw]

From the AA Web site

The legal requirement is to ‘not dazzle oncoming drivers’ rather than specifically to adjust/convert the headlamp beam pattern. Without adjustment the dipped beam will dazzle oncoming drivers and this could result in a fine. Headlamp beam converter kits are widely available but may not be suitable for all types of headlights. The AA shop sell beam converters suitable for all vehicles and individual fitting diagrams are included for the latest ‘clear glass’, ‘projector and xenon’ headlamps inside the packaging. In some countries it is compulsory to use dipped headlights at all times when driving during the day. Note: this adjustment is not required for two wheeled vehicles as the beam pattern is more symmetrical but check that any extra loading has not affected the beam height. On some cars it is inadvisable or impossible for anyone other than a qualified technician to change a headlamp bulb unit e.g. high intensity discharge (HID) headlamps and carrying spares is not an option. However, it is recommended that spare bulbs are carried for any lights that may be easily and/or safely replaced by the owner/driver. Spare bulbs are compulsory for Croatia.

AA Traveling Abroad

 

[Whele]

Is this of any help?

only useful for Johnie foreigner comming to the UK.

The light that is reflected from the left hand side of the silver reflector is the beam that will be thrown the oncoming eyes of Hr Fritz or Monsieur Craimant. Hence the left hand side when facing the glass is that which should be covered

 

[Boffer]

If you look closely at the clear lens there are two dots in the center & two lines at the edge that define the area to be masked. Note clear lense used on LH & RH drive models so two sets of marks!

 

[JohnnyBoxer]

A tip...................always get to the hotel before nightfall

Thus you won't need to tape/rotate your headlights and you'll be in the bar enjoying a beer when the light fades

Worked for me for 20 years

Don't think I've ever ridden in the dark on a bike...................isn't it very dangerous

 

[Sgt Bilco]

If you look closely at the clear lens there are two dots in the center & two lines at the edge that define the area to be masked. Note clear lense used on LH & RH drive models so two sets of marks!

Does anyone actually stilll do this

 

[DrogoNevets]

A tip...................always get to the hotel before nightfall

...

Don't think I've ever ridden in the dark on a bike...................isn't it very dangerous

not sure how much more/less dangerous, but its not pleasant, i too try to avoid night riding, hate with a passion!

but alas not always possible!

but i went to france over easter, i didnt bother, and i wasnt always back before night fall (we went out for an evening meal once, 4miles away from the B&B)

 

[ihandyman247]

I did over 50K miles round the Europe , never had a problem I do most off my riding during the night with full HID

 

[stever1]

Why not just flip the little lever behind the light to the down position. Works for me.