Switch on Headlamp

Lifter · 02-24-2016, 09:27 PM

Hello Gang,

I just bought this bike last month.

The first time I went to look at it, i noticed this strange switch on the headlamp. I thought it was strange place to put a switch (not really easy to reach) but i wasn't really familiar with the particular model or cruisers in general.

Well, the switch has a short in it and needs to be replaced, but i was hoping to find out ideas on what the heck it was installed for in the first place.

Here is what it does:

OFF - Break RUNNING light, rear blinkers and Spedo light OFF
ON - Break RUNNING light and SPedo light ON. Rear Blinkers.

** Does not effect Headlamp or rear signals **

I initially thought that someone installed a Headlight Bypass for better cranking power on start or some kind of modulator but the headlight itself and rear signal lights are un-effected.

Thanks in advance!
Brad

alantf · 02-25-2016, 07:15 AM

When you say that the switch has a short. do you mean a short to ground? If you mean that the contacts short together, that's what they're supposed to do when you close the switch.

blaine · 02-25-2016, 08:52 AM

That switch is someones add-on......May be a good idea to get rid of it & go back to stock.

Water Warrior 2 · 02-25-2016, 11:55 AM

I agree with Blaine. Go back to the stock specs. A previous owner may have had a good reason for adding the switch but turning off any light will affect your safety and the ability for others to see you. The GZ is a small enough target on the road to see without making it less visible to the other guys out there.

A very good habit to get into is doing a complete light check at the beginning of every day that you ride. I do this with both my bike and truck. It only takes a moment or two to make sure your are as visible as possible and may save you from injury or worse.

Vegas Street Rider · 02-25-2016, 04:10 PM

I agree with both Blaine and Water Warrior for what it's worth.

Lifter · 02-27-2016, 06:38 AM

Thanks for all the great feedback!!

02-25-2016, 07:15 AM	#2
alantf Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Tenerife (Spain) Posts: 3,719	When you say that the switch has a short. do you mean a short to ground? If you mean that the contacts short together, that's what they're supposed to do when you close the switch. __________________ By birth an Englishman, by the grace of God a Yorkshireman.
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02-25-2016, 08:52 AM	#3
blaine Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: P.E.I. Canada Posts: 3,784	That switch is someones add-on......May be a good idea to get rid of it & go back to stock. __________________ If at first you do succeed, try not to look surprised. Login or Register to Remove Ads
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02-25-2016, 04:10 PM	#5
Vegas Street Rider Senior Member Join Date: May 2015 Location: Henderson, NV Posts: 1,108	I agree with both Blaine and Water Warrior for what it's worth. Login or Register to Remove Ads
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02-25-2016, 11:55 AM	#4
Water Warrior 2 Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Squamish B.C Canada Posts: 11,409	I agree with Blaine. Go back to the stock specs. A previous owner may have had a good reason for adding the switch but turning off any light will affect your safety and the ability for others to see you. The GZ is a small enough target on the road to see without making it less visible to the other guys out there. A very good habit to get into is doing a complete light check at the beginning of every day that you ride. I do this with both my bike and truck. It only takes a moment or two to make sure your are as visible as possible and may save you from injury or worse.
	0

02-27-2016, 06:38 AM	#6
Lifter Junior Member Join Date: Feb 2016 Posts: 15	Thanks for all the great feedback!!
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