Headlight switch install on hardwired model

My '98 800FI doesnt have a headlight on/off switch.

I'd like to wire one in somewhere so I can run the bike with the lights off (to reduce stress on the electrical system, the R/R, etc and to allow the battery to bed fully charged.

I'd like to know what people think is

a) the best place to wire one in e.g. just near the bulbs inside the fairing? mounted on the triple clamp or headstem?

b) what type of switch?

c) anything to be wary of?


I'm no electrician, so any thoughts are welcome

Thanks.

 

Howdy,

Yes. In many states, this will get you a ticket. Most states require a working and turned on headlight on a motorcycle, regardless of time of day.

That being said, it could be useful when you are working on the bike and need the ignition on, or are running the engine at idle while you work on it.

How to do it? Get thee a manual and look at the wiring diagram. Find the wires that go to the headlights and splice them apart, route wire to your switch, mount the switch in a convenient place like the dash, and hope for the best

Adios,

 

Thanks Tourmeister,
here in Australia, they had hardwired lights legislated for a couple of years, then saw sense and repealed the law but many bikes still come without the on-off switch.

It's OK here to run without lights on (daylight), and I agree there are times when I want the ignition on, but not have the lights draining the battery.

I might get a professional to install a switch - I worry that I know just enough about electrics to be dangerous.........

Ride safe.

Justin

 

Just get a full handle bar with all switches. re-route the headlight wires via a relay and the problem is fixed. Have done it with my japaneese spec. No problems