Motorcycle Electrical system Question. How do I figure out what accessories I can run on my Motorcycle?
Do I add up watts? If I have an HID headlight which takes less power than OEM, but I add 2 driving lights at 55 watts each, plus some extra LED lights. How do I know if my motorcycle electrical system can handle it reliably? I would like to avoid trial and error.
July 3rd, 2010 at 10:14 pm
Amps is what you use to determine accessory load. Check your stock specs for amperage output and make sure you don’t exceed it by adding up the total amps drawn by all of your wanted accessories put together.
LED’s have a very low load rating and can be put on pretty much without being concerned about overworking the bikes electrical system.
July 3rd, 2010 at 11:03 pm
I’m sure you are talking about a cruiser, so to start off with most cruisers have about a 300 amp battery, and a charging system to keep up with it, don’t worry too much about watts, I’ve seen Harleys lit up like a christmas tree, and GPS. and stereo, and CB radio. cigarette lighter. Driving lights all with standard electrical system.
July 3rd, 2010 at 11:52 pm
My advice is call dealer find out your chargeing amps. Use battery amps to help decide how much you can add, but allow – 20 % to be on safe side.
Virago Jim