I wanted to agree with our very knowledgable Officer Rushjob on this one, BUT....
While Schedule 1, Table II says that a motorcycle must have a headlight, Part 1 section 4(3)(a) says that nothing in the regulation apply (i.e. Table II) if the vehicle doesn't have a position light, and it don't say anything about original equipment either. So take off your position light and you don't need to have a headlight!

So I would say not having a headlight doesn't contravene the The Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989 and therefor is perfectly ok!

But I'm no legal expert, so does anyone know of a test case??

As I started this thread - thinking that the definitive answers had at long last been found - as soon as the issue of Part 1, 4,(3), (a) was raised I felt obligated to telephone the Department of Transport for clarification.

So far I have had a verbal response indicating that the only light you need is a brake light provided the vehicle will only be used between sunrise and sunset (as defined in the regulations).

I have now put it to the DoT in writting (email) and have been assured that written confirmation will be with me shortly.

The other possible issue is that if the lights aren't there then neither should the switchgear. I have put this to them also for written clarification.

As soon as I receive said confirmation I will post for all to see.

Thanks and be patient!

Neil.

[Edited on 3-9-2004 by neil748r]

WINNER
good work fella

I have been through all this too as for a year I had race fairings and no lights nor indicators but rear view mirrors and the back seat / lights etc had not been changed - and the reply I got 2nd time around was that if the swith gear on the bike is still there then all said swith gear should all be in working order.

Cheesed me off no end as I had to purchase after market indicators in the shop before returning to the MOT bay.

Tim