Hi Guys,

I have seen a few posts saying this is a worthwhile mod but do not understsand the reason for doing it. This is down to my ignorance of all things electrical I'm sure but please would someone explain? Eastern Beaver suggets you get a brighter headlight - is this true and are tere any other benefits?

Also would this be the correct kit for the 4 (16) valve?

http://www.easternbeaver.com/Main/Products/H4_Kits/h4_kits.html

Many thanks
Dave

The wiring size on K100's was specced to be able to carry the required current on various circuits. It is not large enough to carry additional load (amps) of any significance. The full current is carried by the wiring, through the LH handlebar switch, to the headlight. Current = watts/volts, so 60/12=5 amps through the wiring. When you want to increase the wattage of the headlight (for example) the current must also increase, so, say you want to go to 90 watts, then it's 90/12=7.5 amps, which is 50% more current, so 50% more cross sectional area is required to be able to safely handle that load, the K wiring isn't up to this task I'm afraid. So, a relay is required. A relay is an electrically operated switch wherby we use the original wiring to operated the relay contact and heavy wiring is used from the source (battery) to the relay and from the relay (load side) to the globe. That way your wiring doesn't get overloaded like some tosser had done to mine when I purchased it and found a 110 watt globe in the headlight and no relay. How to cook a wiring loom and, if you're really unlucky, burn your K to the ground. 'Nuff said, hope this helps, Dennis.

Hi Dave, I did the Eastern Beaver kit a few years ago. It's a straight forward install, tap off the battery and plug into your headlight. If you have driving lights or are thinking of getting them, get the option w driving lights lead. I also got the heavy duty disconnector option so it makes it easier to work on in the future. If your going with a hotter than normal bulb, you'll need the ceramic plug as the heat melts the plastic ones. This takes all the current load off the handlebar switches which have been known to melt down as they get older and new stuff gets added. Hope this helps.
Martin

Hi Guys

Dennis, that's great, thanks I now understand the principles and why it's important, much appreciated.
Martin - useful advice, thanks! I reckon I might as well go for the high spec harness bits and pieces you describe - it's a bit like buying a BMW isn't it, base price looks reasonable until you spec it up....

All the Best
Dave

Hi Dave, I've put in the Eastern Beaver Relay kit with low beam staying on when you select high beam, with the ceramic connector to the globe for the extra heat. It makes a huge difference, and I'm running an 80/100w globe. So 80 watts on low beam and 180watts when on high beam. Works a treat. Could never do that with standard wiring. Its so good, no more need for spotties. cheers Andyb

Hi Andy

Sounds bleddy marvellous mate!

I'll have to do it, if only to have a main beam like a searchlight!

Cheers for the info

Dave

You'll need it for those loooong winter nights

Mike

I've fitted Eastern Beaver relays on two bikes now. Well worth the investment!

One of the best things i(read Charlie99) had done. Since charlie fitted the relays for me i can actually see at night. I think its one of the best upgrades you can do.
I also fitted a Narva plus50 headlight bulb.

Dennis wrote:The wiring size on K100's was specced to be able to carry the required current on various circuits. It is not large enough to carry additional load (amps) of any significance. The full current is carried by the wiring, through the LH handlebar switch, to the headlight. Current = watts/volts, so 60/12=5 amps through the wiring. When you want to increase the wattage of the headlight (for example) the current must also increase, so, say you want to go to 90 watts, then it's 90/12=7.5 amps, which is 50% more current, so 50% more cross sectional area is required to be able to safely handle that load, the K wiring isn't up to this task I'm afraid. So, a relay is required. A relay is an electrically operated switch wherby we use the original wiring to operated the relay contact and heavy wiring is used from the source (battery) to the relay and from the relay (load side) to the globe. That way your wiring doesn't get overloaded like some tosser had done to mine when I purchased it and found a 110 watt globe in the headlight and no relay. How to cook a wiring loom and, if you're really unlucky, burn your K to the ground. 'Nuff said, hope this helps, Dennis.

Thanks Dennis, much appreciated, a clear explanation in terms a layman like me understands of what a relay is, what they are for, and why they are necessary when upping the wattage e.g. on a lighting circuit.
@ the OP, please excuse me butting in.
Regards, Chris