What does overriding your headlight occur when?

Overriding your headlight refers to a situation where a motorcycle rider is unable to stop safely within the distance illuminated by their headlight. This typically occurs when the total stopping distance, which includes both perception reaction time and braking distance, exceeds the sight distance provided by the headlight beam.

When riding at high speeds, especially in low-light conditions, the headlight may not provide enough illumination to allow the rider to perceive and react to obstacles or hazards in time, resulting in a potential inability to stop safely. This emphasizes the importance of maintaining a speed that allows for safe stopping within the range of visibility provided by the motorcycle's headlights. Riding within the limits of your visibility is crucial for safe operation, particularly in poor lighting conditions.