SAE J1306-2018 PDF

Full title and description

St SAE J1306-2018 — Motorcycle Auxiliary Front Lamps. This SAE International recommended practice specifies parameters, photometric performance and general design and test requirements for auxiliary front lamps intended for use on motorcycles. The 2018 revision updates the document to be technology-neutral (replacing references to bulbs with “light source”) and adds an optional wider-beam photometric table to supplement headlamps.

Abstract

SAE J1306_201808 is a short recommended practice that defines recommended photometric patterns, mounting and mechanical considerations, and test methods for motorcycle auxiliary front lamps. It is written to accommodate modern light sources such as LEDs and includes optional beam tables intended to supplement the motorcycle headlamp for improved visibility. The document is intended as guidance for design and verification rather than a mandatory regulation.

General information

• Status: Current / Reaffirmed.
• Publication date: August 13, 2018 (J1306_201808).
• Publisher: SAE International.
• ICS / categories: Road vehicles — exterior lighting; motorcycle equipment; photometry and test procedures (automotive lighting standards).
• Edition / version: J1306_201808 (2018 revision; revision history includes 2012, 2010 and earlier issues).
• Number of pages: 7 pages (concise recommended practice).

Scope

This recommended practice provides parameters and general requirements for auxiliary front lamps used on motorcycles. It addresses photometric performance (including an optional wider beam table), compatibility with modern light sources (for example LEDs), mechanical mounting considerations, and applicable test procedures such as impact and environmental checks appropriate for motorcycle applications. The document is intended to supplement headlamps and improve conspicuity or roadway illumination when used in accordance with vehicle installation rules.

Key topics and requirements

• Photometric performance and beam pattern recommendations, including an optional wider supplemental beam table.
• Technology-neutral language to cover incandescent, HID and LED light sources and guidance for light-source designation.
• Mechanical and mounting considerations suitable for motorcycle installations (vibration and impact considerations typical of two‑wheeled vehicles).
• Recommended test procedures for performance verification (photometry, impact/resilience testing and relevant laboratory setups).
• Marking and identification guidance appropriate for installation and service (recommended practice rather than mandatory regulatory marking).

Typical use and users

Used by motorcycle OEM lighting engineers, aftermarket lamp designers, test laboratories, compliance and certification teams, and product managers specifying auxiliary front lighting. It is also referenced by technical writers and regulators when comparing recommended industry practices to formal regulatory requirements.

Related standards

Commonly used alongside other SAE lighting standards and vehicle regulations, for example: SAE J575 / J575 series (tests for lighting devices and components), SAE J578 (color specification for lamps), SAE J585 / J586 (rear/stop lamps references where applicable), U.S. FMVSS No. 108 (vehicle lighting regulatory requirements) and UNECE Regulations covering motorcycle lighting and installation (e.g., UN/ECE Reg. 53 series for category L vehicles). These documents together help ensure photometric, color and durability conformity across designs and regulatory contexts.

Keywords

Motorcycle auxiliary front lamps; photometry; beam pattern; LED lighting; SAE J1306; exterior lighting; test procedures; impact tests; mounting; recommended practice.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: SAE J1306_201808 is a recommended practice from SAE International titled "Motorcycle Auxiliary Front Lamps" providing guidance on photometric and general requirements for auxiliary front lighting on motorcycles.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers recommended photometric performance (including an optional wider supplemental beam), mounting and mechanical considerations, light‑source neutrality (LEDs and other sources), and test procedures such as photometric verification and impact testing appropriate for motorcycle installations.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Motorcycle OEMs, aftermarket lamp manufacturers, design and verification engineers, test labs and compliance teams use the document when designing, validating or specifying auxiliary front lamps.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: The 2018 revision (J1306_201808) is the current/reaffirmed recommended practice (published August 13, 2018). It supersedes prior revisions (2012, 2010, etc.). Users should check SAE mobilus or SAE International for any later reaffirmation or revision.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: It is part of SAE's family of vehicle lighting recommended practices and standards; it is commonly used together with SAE tests and color specifications (for example J575 for tests and J578 for color) and with national/regulatory documents such as FMVSS 108 or UNECE motorcycle lighting regulations.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Motorcycle auxiliary front lamps; auxiliary lighting; photometry; beam pattern; LED; SAE J1306; exterior lighting; test procedures; recommended practice.