Why are mountain bikers with homemade light systems called pond scum?

Question

Why are mountain bikers with homemade light systems called pond scum?

Answer 1

The main reason for mountain bikers with homemade light systems are to be called pond scum because a lot of homemade light systems use waterproof lamp enclosures for garden ponds which holds mr16 halogen dichroic bulb, some of these light systems are over voltage to 14.8v what makes the light very bright indeed.

Answer 2

This is probably because homemade lighting systems are often either too dim or too bright to be used on the road.  Systems which are too dim mean you're invisible, and systems which are too bright will dazzle other road users.  

In addition, lighting systems must conform to the legal requirements of the country in order to be used on the road (and are only required at night).  If you're off-road, you can carry whichever lights you like (and for me the brighter the better).  However, I have never personally called anyone "pond scum" for having homemade lighting systems, nor do I intend to.  As long as they work and don't dazzle me, I don't care what people hang from their handlebars!

Answer 3

Pond scum is usually a reference to someone who is poor. I suppose that this is why some "bikers" with nice equipment would use that phase to describe a home made light system.

Seems a little silly ... I don't mountain bike, but I ride ATVs and Dirt Bikes ... the BEST lighting systems have always been "custom" home made ones. In my circle you would be honored for your creativity, not ridiculed ... maybe some new friends are in order.

Answer 4

Well I have 80W of lights on my mountain bike, ( Homemade ), Which I need for going downhill at 30mph in Afan forest. And I dont consider myself or have ever been called pond scum

Answer 5

Because cycle lighting must conform to British Standard BS 6102/3 or equivalent.