Hi Beams and spot lights

[FLHTDan]

Why do the spot lights shut off when the high beam is turned on?
Can't figure out why it was designed that way. I should have the option of turning them on and off on the high side also.

[Firechief510]

I would have to agree. If I have the high beam on, no one is coming so what does it matter. I like the way the spots light up the area around and to the side of the bike.

[mtaylor1111]

The DOT has a regulation that says that auxiliary lights (fog, driving, spot lights) must be turned off while the high beams are on. If you wanted to wire the auxiliary lights to be on, which would be illegal, it is a simple job. On my bike it would be as easy as cutting the yellow wire going to the auxiliary light switch and wiring that to a hot wire. Your bike maybe different so please check your service manual wiring diagram.

[dynaglydr]

My question is, can the altanator handle the wattage of the two on?

[route66paul]

Yes, as long as they are stock wattage. If you are running additional lights, I would try to figure out how much you can run.

[TBo]

If interested you may try this. East to do and undo. Works on my 06 great.

http://www.v-twinforum.com/forums/ha...high-beam.html

[gunnysgt]

Why not just switch to brighter bulbs, I swapped my stock yellow looking bulbs for ultra white Xenon, I see much better, they see much better even though they are DOT legal wattage.

[dzlfitr]

I run an 80watt lo beam, 100watt high beam H-4 bulb.
Also run 55watt H-3 passing lamps.

Don't have any issues.

[gunnysgt]

Once consideration on the higher watt beams is they do draw more current and produce more heat.

[Steve Handy]

Originally Posted by FLHTDan

Why do the spot lights shut off when the high beam is turned on?
Can't figure out why it was designed that way. I should have the option of turning them on and off on the high side also.

you are right...it is DUMB to have the passing /fog/driving lights go OUT on high beam...I cheat the system...
2001 ultra FI...45 amp stator...
I have a Harley HID head lite...added a 80 watt high beam...wired to keep low beam on during high beam usage...also moved passing lite power from low beam to the acc switch so they are on any time I TURN THEM ON...also I changed the passing lites to 55 watt from the factory 35 watt...
I have no problem with cagers on high beam LOL
also no problem with the 45 amp charging system...
Good Luck Steve The Dyno Man

[ALawishes]

not sure if first post worked?? I just moved the wire & pin on the connector to the open hole where the acc yellow wire is always hot, (and in acc ignition position as well) I have pic's and schematics if ya need help.

[Uncle Salty]

I left the passing lights alone and added PIAA 510 series driving lamps to the engine guard bar. I wired them to come on with the hi beam. I can also switch them off if necessary. With the PIAA driving lamps on you can see the reflection of a raccoon's eye from about 2,000 feet.

[bigbluff]

Someone can correct me if I'm wrong, but I think the hi beam on stock headlights actually is lower wattage (35W) than the low beam (55W). I think the main difference is the position of the filaments and mirrors such that the hi beams are focused down the road and the low beams are diffused to shine lower and a bit to the right.

[markmgm]

I did my first night ride last night coming home from a family gathering. I really liked the spots and the way they light up the road. However, wish they did stay on when the HI beam was on as well.

So what are the upgrades for the main headlamp ( blub number and brand) and the spots?
I know the HD LED lights are out but they are $$$$$

THanks

mark

[Uncle Salty]

Cibié H4 E-code headlamp, $75. 70/65W Osram Silverstar +50 H4 bulb. The last one I bought was around $25 if I remember correctly. It's better than stock but won't compare to HID or LED. You can also get a 85/80W but I haven't tried it. If you can live with the looks, the PIAA 510 series driving lamps will be a significant improvement over a halogen headlight.