It's just the headlight that goes out, the tailight/plate light stays on ...

 

Maybe theoretically...less load on the alternator, less load on the engine, gnats *** better fuel economy.

 

A simple calculation shows that fuel economy is not affected by switching the light off. Or by a so small amount as to be negligible.

However, there are a few situations where I would like to turn my headlight off. One of them : I had to let the bike idle for long times in one ride due to a broken starter button. When idling, the alternator cannot supply enough current for the headlight and all accessories, so the battery discharges slowly. I got to the point where I had to start the engine on compression.

 

...telling me that my lights must be on all the time - that's a nanny-state.

 

I agree either way! No government should be telling us what to do, down to that level of detail. Let natural selection do its job with those who get culled because they didn't want to ride with their lights on... but let it be THEIR decision.

 

So you must think the same way about seat belts and helmets? Idaho does not have a helmet law, I always wear mine.

 

i am not sure i woulld call cambodia a nanny country but who wants a 2-3 dollar fine