energy crisis

[Pat Kelly]

Here's some observations on my readings. These are from the $15 Sunpro gauge from Autozone, not the most accurate but does show the trend.

Bike in driveway:
Idling 10V
3000 RPM 12V
Highbeam 12V
Turnsignals 10-8V as they flash


Bike on the road:
Idling 12V
3000 RPM 14V
Highbeam 14V
Turnsignals 12-10V as they flash

I find it interesting that the charging system works better on the road compared to checing it in the driveway. Must be a windmill on the bike that I haven't found yet.
Also that switching highbeam off and on has no effect on charging yet the turnsignals are an electrical sponge. Looks like I need to check the turnsignal wiring and connecters and do some housecleaning there.

As to the stereo. I won't be adding an amp (yet) but a CD changer would be nice .

[Snow]

You could also see if putting in an electronic 2-prong auto turn signal flasher cuts down on consumption. They usually run about 6-8 bucks at Auto parts stores. I recently put one in my XS b/c I found my flasher to be suspect. Since then, my turnsignals work great even sitting at a stoplight. The only drawback is that you lose auto-cancel. Btw, don't try a 3 prong auto flasher, they don't work for the XS.

[Pat Kelly]

Well, I know that the connections are clean from the turnsignal wires to the wiring harness as I just converted back to fully dressed. Original rear turns moved from the seat to the bar at the license and front turns removed and wiring attached to the fairing harness. I replaced the original flasher unit with a two prong electronic unit. Lights flash just fine but voltage drop is the same. Guess I think I'll unplug the fairing harness and see what happens. I know they won't flash but they'll come on so I can check that. I'll try the same at the rear signals. I think there are another pair of connections to the rear lights behind each side cover so I'll peek in there too.

I had a thought for an alternate name for the $60 GEM, "Gemini".
I seem to run the bike fully dressed in winter and nekkid in summer so it has two personalities. I think it would save me some time if I just bought a second XS1100 .

[TopCatGr58]

Hey there Pat,

I'm working on a new tech tip regarding LED's for both the brake lights and the turn signals, will have it done soon after I complete my transition on my bike. I know some one did this(Brake) for the Standard using a 4" round LED, but mine's a Special and has the larger tail light lens, and the round turn signals. Will have pictures and stuff. The LED's draw so much less amperage than the 1157's and 1161?(turn lights).

Gemini is a good name!! So is "Schitzo" for dual personalities!!!

T.C.

[kf4anm]

leds

for the best result if you have the room is run your leds in parralell with a restisor in line with each led. if you haven't checked it out. www.ledmuseum.com is a great led resource of information