New Member - Light Switch Source?

[blackrider]

Just switched over to a '05 S last week from an R-RS; it's a thing of beauty and a sweet machine. I've got a long list of mods planned for the S, among the first being the addition of a light switch - Japanese models don't come with any. My dealer told me that BMW Japan does not import switches anymore. I've tried Motobins and Motorworks without any luck; perhaps UK models don't come with light switches either?

If there is a source for BMW light switches, preferably online and willing to ship internationally, I would be grateful if you let me know.

Very resourceful forum, glad to participate!

[Steve Carlton]

Welcome, blackrider!

In the US the bike doesn't have a light switch either. European models may; as I recall the K1200RS had such a switch.

Is that your particular bike in the photo?

[shannonnunley]

you live in Japan.... hee hee.

I know a really nice girl who just moved there.

[blackrider]

Thanks Steve, I'll look into it. Shot the photo last weekend during the shakedown ride.

The pillion seat is always looking for company!

[tvrla]

I believe that BMW no longer makes a light switch for any of the bikes. But... it may be possible to install one from a year or so ago. I've got one on my bike, and I don't think the style of the switch has changed since the beginning. The wiring did change a little in 2000 (I think), but otherwise they should be the same.

[Steve Carlton]

I PM'd Rob Wijhenke for you to respond to this thread- hopefully he'll know the answer, since he's in Holland. There's other guys across the pond, too. Maybe one of them will know as well.

[JonyRR]

OK, if you want to turn off the headlights (or all the lights for that matter) here's how I dide my officially unauthorized modification for just that task:
Kill the ground going to the headlight! I did a complete lights-out switch by breaking the ground to the headlight/taillight/brakelight (I have a NON-ABS model so this advice is valid only for non-abs) I had to reengineer the wiring harness somewhat but I did that at the same time I installed my HID bulbs. With a press of the concealed switch I can run in 'lights-out' mode (and still have instrument illumination if I want it and I can also shut that off as well). This isn't on the 'officially-approved' mods list but mine has functioned perfectly for 10K; there ARE times 'stealth mode' is a good thing....hehehehe....

[boxerpan]

Originally posted by Steve Carlton
I PM'd Rob Wijhenke for you to respond to this thread- hopefully he'll know the answer, since he's in Holland. There's other guys across the pond, too. Maybe one of them will know as well.

It is the same across europe - no light switch for 2003 year model onwards. Can only suggest trying to source a switch set from earlier model, assuming the wiring is in place to connect up to.
We are not to be trusted with matters in the illumination department apparently

Lloyd

[blackrider]

Thanks all for the info, I think the light switch will have to wait until after an HID installation.

[shannonnunley]

blame it on the jews....

[Steve Carlton]

the K12S has a dimmer knob.

[rob_wijhenke]

OK, BMW dumped the switch altogether from end of '03 onwards ('04 models). This can be fixed. The wiring is still there as well is the possibility to add the switch. Your dealer however may not want to do this as it violates BMW safety instructions (bullshat!).

In that case you can make your own switch by digging in the wires above the black connectors box at the right/front side in the fairing. There's a big white connector, vertically positioned, can't miss it, that holds (I believe) 4 wires. Cut one of them (I believe it's the most right one (but it can also be the left one)) and mount your own switch in between.

Simple!

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If you found this instruction usefull you can donate $10 to my paypal account Donate $10 to Rob

[Steve Carlton]

Rob- did the european R11S used to have an on/off light switch? If so, couldn't that assembly be installed on blackrider's bike? I thought that was true of the KRS when I used to have one.

You're kidding with that PayPal link, right?

[Steve Carlton]

Maybe I should put a PayPal link in my signature line...hmmm

[repoe3]

if you order the bmw heated grip controls...they appear to come with the light switch...only set you back $172 for the part.

repoe3

[RBMann]

Repoe, when I put the heated grips on my '00 the new controls only added the heat switch. Since then I have seen a right side control with the heat and light switches. They do use them somewhere in the world.

RB

[repoe3]

yeah, it was an option for a while. perhaps they are oncluding them anymore. but the parts fiche show the controls and even says light control switch as part of the setup.

repoe3

[rob_wijhenke]

Is this one still open? Yes, all European models had light switches up until 2004. And I do believe the switch assemble found on the fiche can be used on the 2004 model but I don't know is the wiring is still in place. You would have to disassemble the handlebar unit to find out. Easier maybe is to make your light switch using the wires I mentioned before. The disadvantage is that the switch wouldn't be nicely integrated but it would definitely work.

[JonyRR]

I believe, rob, your directions also kill the ground (earth) side of the lighting circut, just like my directions. it appears bmw cuts the ground side of any circut to de-energise it (most jap and 'merikan stuff kills the hot side of the circut)

[Rapid Dog]

WELCOME BLACKRIDER
PAY NO ATTENTION TO THE SHANNONOOLIE BEHIND THE CURTAIN!