Interpretation ID: aiam3756
90 W. 79th Avenue
Liberty Square
P.O. Box G
Merriville
IN 46410;
Dear Mr. Miller: The Department of Commerce has forwarded your letter of September 27 1983, to Mr. Vinson of this office, for our reply. You have asked about Federal standards for motorcycle headlamps in connection with your investigation of an accident in Indiana involving a motorcycle reputedly equipped with 'a custom light approximately 2 1/2' by 5 '...smaller than a stock light.' Indiana Law requires that motorcycles be equipped with headlamps meeting Federal standards.; The principal Federal standard on motorcycle headlighting is SA Standard J584a, incorporated by reference in 49 CFR 571.108, Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108. The standards do not list permissible sizes for motorcycle headlamps that are not sealed beam, specifying only that the light emitted comply with requirements at various photometric test points. Thus, the small size of the lamp in question is not indicative that it failed to meet Federal motorcycle requirements.; However, we are not aware that motorcycle headlamps are available i rectangular sizes smaller than those used on passenger cars, i.e., 4 inches by 6 inches. Perhaps the lamp in question was intended by its manufacturer for use as a driving lamp on passenger cars, its size is consistent with that type of lamp. But without further information I'm afraid we can be of no greater asistance (sic).; Sincerely, Frank Berndt, Chief Counsel