Motorcycle lighting isn’t just about style — it’s about safety. One of the most overlooked yet critical upgrades riders can make is adding passing lights, sometimes called auxiliary lamps. In this complete guide, we’ll explain what motorcycle passing lights are, why they matter, and how to choose the right ones for your Harley or Indian motorcycle.
What Are Motorcycle Passing Lights?
Passing lights are additional lights mounted on either side of the main headlight. They serve as auxiliary beams that increase your visibility to other drivers and help illuminate the road ahead. On many Harley-Davidson Touring and Cruiser models, passing lights come stock — but riders often upgrade them to modern LED passing lamps for brighter performance and style.
Also known as spot lamps or auxiliary lamps, passing lights are typically mounted to the crash bar or fork, working in tandem with your headlight.
Why Passing Lights Matter
- Improved visibility: Extra beams make you more noticeable to cars in daylight and at night.
- Wider light spread: Helps illuminate road shoulders, signs, and obstacles at night.
- Added style: A classic Harley look — especially with chrome housings and smoked lenses.
- Redundancy: If your headlight fails, passing lights keep you visible until you stop safely.
Passing Lights vs. Fog Lights
While sometimes confused with fog lights, passing lights serve a slightly different purpose:
- Passing lights: Positioned higher, angled slightly outward for increased visibility and a wider beam.
- Fog lights: Mounted lower and aimed at the road directly in front to cut through fog, rain, or mist.
Many modern LED auxiliary lights combine both functions with adjustable angles and beam patterns.
Types of Motorcycle Passing Lights
Halogen Passing Lights
Traditional and inexpensive, but dim compared to modern LEDs. Draws more power and burns out faster.
LED Passing Lights
The gold standard in 2025. Brighter, longer-lasting, energy-efficient, and available in multiple styles (halo rings, smoked lenses, blacked-out housings).
Custom and Universal Passing Lights
For riders customizing a café racer, ADV bike, or older Harley, universal passing lamps fit most forks or crash bars.
Benefits of Upgrading to LED Passing Lights
- ✅ 3x brighter than stock halogen lamps
- ✅ 30,000+ hour lifespan (no constant bulb changes)
- ✅ Lower power draw — protects your battery
- ✅ Plug-and-play fitment on Harley and Indian models
- ✅ Stylish options: black, chrome, smoked, or halo designs
How to Install Passing Lights
Most modern kits, like those from Eagle Lights, are plug-and-play. That means no splicing, no rewiring, and no stress. Here’s a quick overview:
- Remove your old halogen passing lamps (if equipped).
- Mount the new LED passing lights using existing hardware.
- Plug into the existing harness — Eagle Lights kits include CANbus-friendly adapters if needed.
- Test the lights before reassembly.
Installation usually takes under 30 minutes per side.
Best Passing Lights for Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycles
Harley-Davidson Touring Models
Road King, Street Glide, and Electra Glide riders often upgrade their stock lamps to Eagle Lights LED passing lamps for a brighter, modern look.
Harley-Davidson Softail and Heritage Models
Classic chrome housings pair perfectly with Softail and Heritage aesthetics.
Indian Motorcycles
Indian Chief, Roadmaster, and Chieftain models benefit from brighter LED auxiliary lamps, available in blacked-out or chrome finishes.
When Should You Use Passing Lights?
Passing lights can be used anytime your motorcycle is running. They:
- Stay on with the headlight for maximum visibility
- Help during daytime riding to alert other drivers
- Improve nighttime illumination
Note: Always check your state or country’s lighting regulations, as some areas restrict auxiliary lighting use on public roads.
FAQs About Motorcycle Passing Lights
- Are passing lights the same as fog lights? No, passing lights are mounted higher and aimed outward, while fog lights are lower and focused directly on the road.
- Do I need passing lights on my motorcycle? Not mandatory, but highly recommended for visibility and safety.
- Will LED passing lights drain my battery? No, LEDs use less power than halogen bulbs.
- Are passing lights legal? Yes in most regions, but check local laws before installation.
- Can I install passing lights myself? Yes — Eagle Lights kits are plug-and-play and DIY-friendly.
Final Thoughts: Why Passing Lights Are a Must-Have in 2025
Passing lights may not always be the first upgrade riders think of — but they should be. They dramatically improve visibility, add safety redundancy, and complete the classic Harley or Indian look. With Eagle Lights LED passing lamps, you get plug-and-play installation, free shipping, and a lifetime warranty.
Ride brighter. Ride safer. Ride Eagle Lights.
