Often Manufacturers do not invest a lot of design consideration into the handlebar controls of a motorcycle. It's an odd thing when you consider that this is the primary interface between a rider and the bike. A common question that we receive is if a customer's OEM switches can be replaced with any of the momentary switches we offer. The answer is often yes but in order to do it, a control module of some kind is necessary to manage the latching functionality and the high amperage that would flow through the original switches. The mo.Unit is the most popular solution for this but modern motorcycle electronics often make it impractical if not impossible to install an mo.Unit. When it comes to older bikes with pre-EFI or early EFI the electrical systems are often overdue for maintenance or replacement of aging components and in these instances an mo.Unit is a more cost-effective endeavor than the approach outlined in this guide.
So we’ve created this diagram in response to a need in the motorcycle community.
If your bike fits any of the following criteria then the mod outlined in this guide may be a better or in the least, easier solution for you:
- It is less than 15 years old.
- Has a reliable electrical system with wiring that hasn’t been compromised by age.
- Has electronic fuel injection.
- Has a sophisticated ECU perhaps with built-in immobilizer.
This is a serious undertaking and trying to rush through it without taking the time to prepare beforehand can result in unnecessary mistakes that may cost you a lot of money to repair. If you’re willing to make the financial investment in your bike consider also making the investment in yourself to learn how to do it right the first time.
Materials List:
- 1x mo.Relay+ -Manages turn signal controls and replaces OEM flasher relay.
- 1x NSC-01 -Manages high/low beam run/kill controls.
- 2x 4 pin N/O 20 amp relays -Manage power for the start and horn controls
- 1x Relay Terminal Block
- 2x 10 AMP Mechanical Reset Fuse -Required by mo.Relay+ and NSC-01.
- 1x Circuit Breaker / Fuse Block
- 2x Momentary Switch Housing - Most momentary switches are not rated for the amount of current most motorcycle components require. Hence the need for relays to manage primary power for each component.
Butt Connectors - this is not something we sell at this time. There are many kinds available, we recommend at minimum a variety that is crimp and seal but crimp/solder seal are ideal.
Lengths of wire in corresponding gauges and colors - this is also something that we do not sell at this time. There are many sources for “short” lengths of wire, the minimum is typically 10ft. We recommend using Crosslinked TXL wire for the best long term results.
OEM, Clymer or Haynes Manual - For your specific model and year. At the very least you need to source a legible copy of your Factory wiring diagram to reference as you work.
Click the image below to open the full-size PDF. The PDF version includes installation instructions for the mo.Relay+ and NSC-01.
Leave a comment