Kits are now being sold, visit www.wiremybike.com to order your kit. Kits are available in 3000K, 4500K, 5000K and 6000K. Cost is $135 shipped in the US, international shipping rates vary somewhat.
Just a little sneak peak into a project Coderighter and I have been working on. By far the best HID kit we have found, then custom fit to be 100% plug and play. More to come, but enjoy the video!
Latch and Delay relays are available separately for those who wish to have that functionality available. $24 for the Delay, $29 for the Latch, plus shipping. These can be ordered from www.wiremybike.com along with the kits
Directions:
Tightwad
Installing is pretty easy, once you get the front fairing off...that job is a bit daunting at first, but after having done it a couple times it gets easy:
Remove of front fairing per the manuals instructions...don't forget to unplug turn signals, high and low beams, and the temperature sender
Remove gauge cover (black piece)...push from the back side of the pins that keep it in place to avoid damage...steady pressure will push them out. This is not 100% required, but I found it much easier to work that way.
Remove the orange wire from the kit, and route it from the battery, under the tank along the frame, up to the front so the female end is near the headlight relays. I found it best to zip tie it to other wiring to help keep it in place. Note my wire is a bit different as I have done other mods...picture is only a representation of the routing: [image: HIDBatteryWire.jpg]
Don't connect it to the battery until the end, but be sure it fits and the fuse is accessible.
Remove low beam relay connector...Low beam relay is the relay on the right of the three...you can see the spot where it goes in the first picture above. It might be easier to unhook the relay rubber housing then reattach it later as I did. *EDIT* on a 2007 model, the Low Beam relay was on the left...look for the white/black wires to verify the correct relay
Using a paper clip or jewelers screwdriver, release the tabs holding the Red/Black wire in place (bottom right if looking into the connector, bottom left if looking in from the wire side). Replace this wire with the Orange wire from the kit (which has an inline fuse and connects to the battery).
Using the heat shrink provided in the kit, cover the red/black connection and heat using a heat gun, hair dryer, or lighter (no direct contact with the flame). The heat shrink is dual walled and has a glue compound that will waterproof the wire nicely, and protect it from shorting out
Remove the White/Black dual wire connection and replace it with the Blue and Red wire dual connection from the kit. There is no need to cover the white/black wire connection (but you can if you wish)
Replace Low Beam relay in it holder
Route the green ground wire down the neck of the bike, and ground it underneath, next to the brake hose: [image: Grouded.jpg]
Be sure you slide the dust cover onto the base of the bulb...and dust/moisture getting in will shorten the bulb life
That does it for the bulbs...now on to installing the ballasts. I chose to install them on either side of the headlights...and to do so I removed a couple of the screws so I could slide the headlights inward...this helps keep the doublesided table from sticking in the wrong spot. Choice of mounting location is up to you, I am just sharing my results. Please take care with the right side ballast, it has to go as far forward as possible to avoid hitting the fuse panel on install (That is why I took the headlights out to install:
Connect the bulbs to the ballasts, then route the ballast connectors towards the middle, where it will match up to the connectors on the bike: [image: Viewoftheback.jpg]
And that's it...the bike is ready to go back together!
Attach the nose...connecting the headlight you want to come on first to the one marked "Headlight 1" on the wiring tags. Don't forget to reconnect the temp sender and the high beams. Once connected, looking down from the top looks like this:
Make that two customers waiting! Wow - that is sweet . Presuming it's the same quality as the VFRness - it'll be top notch. The mirrors look like they might be the GSXR's. I thought that Darth Bling had sold all of the adapters that he had made for them. Anyone have a line on if there are any more of those to be had (maybe another production run) for the 6th gen?
Also - there was an update by Robin the Boy Wonder a week or two ago about some mounts that would adapt CBR 1000RR mirrors - but not sure if that's getting any traction.
The mirrors are the Emgo GSXR mirrors, with the Darth Bling mounts.
Not mentioned in the video is the fact that the lights don't fire until the bike has started. Doing this saves wear and tear on the bulbs because the starter would kill the lights and they would have to fire twice on startup.
I'm not in the market, but I wonder about mixing a standard H4 bulb with a HID, so one side is still 'normal' and the other is a HID. That way you've still got lighting with the key on / engine off and you've mixed the light color of both to show where you're going. Thoughts?
I'm not in the market, but I wonder about mixing a standard H4 bulb with a HID, so one side is still 'normal' and the other is a HID. That way you've still got lighting with the key on / engine off and you've mixed the light color of both to show where you're going. Thoughts?
Actually, high beam circuit is unchanged, so if for some reason you need lights and the engine is not running, you can simply turn the key 'on' and hit the high beams.
The typical life of a HID bulb is about 10 times that of a halogen. However, that bulb life is shorten by power cycling when the bike is started. This is not only hard on the bulb but the ballast also. The HID doesn't have a filament (which is the main reason for the long life), it's a tube that is filled with gas and has two electrodes When the light is powered, the ballast has to produce a 20,000 volt (typical) arc across the to electrodes to 'fire' the bulb. After the bulb is lite, the voltage is reduced as it warms, until it settles out around 80 volts. Repeated 'firing' of the bulb doesn't give the bulb or ballast a chance to recover from the previous start up. This is the reason for the custom relay in the kit that doesn't activate until the engine starts, it prevents this unnecessary on-off cycling.
if i have a flasher relay tha works with hi beams (flashes high beams when you flip them on in daylight), is there anyreason this wont work with that circuit? you said hi's stay the same, so i assume not, but...
if i have a flasher relay tha works with hi beams (flashes high beams when you flip them on in daylight), is there anyreason this wont work with that circuit? you said hi's stay the same, so i assume not, but...
Shouldn't be a problem but before I answer 100%, you say when you flip them on in 'daylight', what determines 'daylight'. How do you stop them from flashing at night if you just want plain old high beams?
The high beam functionality is not changed, but the Low Beam relay wiring is...so if you have done any modifications they will have to be taken into account. I had to undo my previous mod to utilize the high beam portion of the H4 bulb for this to work.
5th gen takes a different bulb, and would require some pretty big changes....high beam would have to be addressed. There is an option to have HID with high beam in them (moves the bulb into a different reflection zone to achieve high beam functionality). Not saying it can't be done of course...
Man, you guys are killin' me! I just finished up with my Part 2 Mods, and now this. :beatdeadhorse: Questions, what wattage are you using, 35 or 55 watt bulbs, and what's the brightness? 4,3K would be good. That would be about white. Not blue or purple. Next question. Would I put this in my Part 3 Mods, or Part 4 Mods?
Man, you guys are killin' me! I just finished up with my Part 2 Mods, and now this. :fing02: Questions, what wattage are you using, 35 or 55 watt bulbs, and what's the brightness? 4,3K would be good. That would be about white. Not blue or purple. Next question. Would I put this in my Part 3 Mods, or Part 4 Mods?
To use this as a power savings, we went with the 35W bulbs. 3 times more light than the halogen bulbs should be sufficient....right? We also opted for the 5000K color, but any color would be available given a bit more lead time.
if i have a flasher relay tha works with hi beams (flashes high beams when you flip them on in daylight), is there anyreason this wont work with that circuit? you said hi's stay the same, so i assume not, but...
Shouldn't be a problem but before I answer 100%, you say when you flip them on in 'daylight', what determines 'daylight'. How do you stop them from flashing at night if you just want plain old high beams?
it has a simply light sensor so it flashes during the day and is off and therefore allows hi beam opps at night.
if i remember correctly, it simply plugged on the back of ONE of the high beams and when power is applied ot it, if the sensor sees daylight, then it modulates power. if dark, then it simply allows power through like normal. pretty simple.
if i have a flasher relay tha works with hi beams (flashes high beams when you flip them on in daylight), is there anyreason this wont work with that circuit? you said hi's stay the same, so i assume not, but...
Shouldn't be a problem but before I answer 100%, you say when you flip them on in 'daylight', what determines 'daylight'. How do you stop them from flashing at night if you just want plain old high beams?
it has a simply light sensor so it flashes during the day and is off and therefore allows hi beam opps at night.
if i remember correctly, it simply plugged on the back of ONE of the high beams and when power is applied ot it, if the sensor sees daylight, then it modulates power. if dark, then it simply allows power through like normal. pretty simple.
ANy ballpark ideas on price for the HID kit and wiring? Need to start squirreling away for this one!! :mellow:
Jon (Coderighter) and I are finalizing the total setup...price will depend on any additional changes that need to be made...but I would Ballpark ~ $125 for the kit. US shipping would be free, Canada gets to pay an upcharge (lucky you!)
ANy ballpark ideas on price for the HID kit and wiring? Need to start squirreling away for this one!! :fing02:
Jon (Coderighter) and I are finalizing the total setup...price will depend on any additional changes that need to be made...but I would Ballpark ~ $125 for the kit. US shipping would be free, Canada gets to pay an upcharge (lucky you!)
I was expecting it to be in the $250 - $350 range so if you can hit the $125 mark that would be awesome. Shipping to Canada isn't that expensive for small parcels, it just takes awhile longer - and using US Postal service is the best way to go to help us Canucks avoid paying duty/customs.
One more question - I'd like to see the output of the lights with the bike on level ground, in the pitch dark, pointing at a dark wall. That would show the light pattern, and if you showed the bike from a distance to the wall - it'll show the spread of the light pattern.
ANy ballpark ideas on price for the HID kit and wiring? Need to start squirreling away for this one!! :idea3:
Jon (Coderighter) and I are finalizing the total setup...price will depend on any additional changes that need to be made...but I would Ballpark ~ $125 for the kit. US shipping would be free, Canada gets to pay an upcharge (lucky you!)
I was expecting it to be in the $250 - $350 range so if you can hit the $125 mark that would be awesome. Shipping to Canada isn't that expensive for small parcels, it just takes awhile longer - and using US Postal service is the best way to go to help us Canucks avoid paying duty/customs.
One more question - I'd like to see the output of the lights with the bike on level ground, in the pitch dark, pointing at a dark wall. That would show the light pattern, and if you showed the bike from a distance to the wall - it'll show the spread of the light pattern.
Looking forward to this mod!!
Well, I live in a very dark area (county) but I have white garage doors and a pretty steep driveway. My neighbor has a dark brown garage doors and less of an angle to his driveway. I could probably arrange something with him this weekend since I live pretty far north (Seattle area) and it doesn't truly get dark here, this time of year, until 10:30. I'll also go for a ride after dark Friday and Saturday and see if I can't find something real level. I get up for work at 5:00, in the office by 6:15, so I can't swing it during the week.
If the target price is close (~$125) I am down like a clown. I hate the fact that the headlights are on prior to the engine running. +1 on wanting to see beam pattern.
Putting together the last few details. I will have two of the 5000K kits ready to go first, with the rest coming shortly after...should be < a week until I can start taking orders for them.
For those who are watching...how informed are you on HID temperatures (light color) and what colors would you want? We chose 5000K, but that is a bit whiter with a touch of blue...not annoying by any means, but whiter than halogen by far.
If you are interested in the kit, post the color you would want...4300K, 5000K, or 6000K (this would be quite blue). Anything more than 6000K would be of limited worth as a headlight in my opinion (but I am not buying that temperature so my opinion is skewed)
Secondly, I chose 35W as a power savings....if you think you would rather the 55W those would be available (no power savings compared to 55W Halogen)
I anticipate a small upcharge for non-standard requests as bulk pricing wouldn't apply, so speak now while we set the standard!
Great idea!
I like it just for the sake of efficiency and would def. consider the kit for myself.
I am concerned with the cut-off though.
Seen too many HID kits in regular housings designed for halogen bulbs that blind due to the lack of cut-off.
So, +3 on the spread pattern pictures please.
Re. the color temperature:
Quote
4100k - 4300k is the ideal HID color temperature to produce the maximum amount of light, lumens, hence the reason while all OEM manufacturers equip their vehicles with these types of bulbs.
Based on the requests, I think it would be good to take a 4300K bulb, a 5000K bulb, and a 6000K bulb and compare them to the Halogen side by side. Let me see if I can get a single bulb of each color to do this with, otherwise I will be test firing someone's bulbs....
count me in on the 35w 4300k. and would it b possible to get a 55w 3000k h7 kit for the highs? i work at night so most of my ridin is after dark and i ride through the bookies so lots of animals ide like to see as good as they see me.
count me in on the 35w 4300k. and would it b possible to get a 55w 3000k h7 kit for the highs? i work at night so most of my ridin is after dark and i ride through the bookies so lots of animals ide like to see as good as they see me.
Yes, a 55W 3000K kit could also be made in the H7 bulb, would you want the delay for that as well? I can figure out what the kit would take and price it for you.
count me in on the 35w 4300k. and would it b possible to get a 55w 3000k h7 kit for the highs? i work at night so most of my ridin is after dark and i ride through the bookies so lots of animals ide like to see as good as they see me.
Yes, a 55W 3000K kit could also be made in the H7 bulb, would you want the delay for that as well? I can figure out what the kit would take and price it for you.
yes i would like the delay on that one aswell. ill b doin the yellow lamin-x film with these cause they make the eyeshine a lot brighter.
Are you making a batch of these based on who says they want one? I really want a set but I'd also like to see the cutoff pattern. And I may need a little bit to get approval from my loan officer (wife) since she just let me buy a set of helibars and a tail light modulator. Definately want a set, it may just be a bit.
Are you making a batch of these based on who says they want one? I really want a set but I'd also like to see the cutoff pattern. And I may need a little bit to get approval from my loan officer (wife) since she just let me buy a set of helibars and a tail light modulator. Definately want a set, it may just be a bit.
This kit will be available on my site for the foreseeable future....just gauging initial interest for the first runs.
Potentially Interested depending on cutoff (dont want to be giving them any more reasons to pull me over in the lovely garden state!). It would be for an 03 with a 35watt 4300/4500k.
I took my bike out last night to try and get some pictures...my camera washes it out more than I would like, so i will wait to see if Jon gets better shots. I did notice some stray light at the bottom, but nothing that would shine on road I am watching while riding (it seems to be down by the fender). The minimal stray light at the side looks similar to what I got with the Halogen bulbs. I also tried parking the bike and walking towards it. The light at even my 5�8� level was not blinding. If I squatted down it got much brighter.
I will not try to sell anyone on this kit�gotta love it before you buy it in my opinion�if you aren�t sure, hold off until you get the reaction from others (price would be the only thing that changes, and that won�t be much, initial pricing reflects some shipping savings by bulk purchasing).
The high beam functionality is not changed, but the Low Beam relay wiring is...so if you have done any modifications they will have to be taken into account. I had to undo my previous mod to utilize the high beam portion of the H4 bulb for this to work.
5th gen takes a different bulb, and would require some pretty big changes....high beam would have to be addressed. There is an option to have HID with high beam in them (moves the bulb into a different reflection zone to achieve high beam functionality). Not saying it can't be done of course...
But the 5th gen takes a pair of H4's and just uses both the high and low filaments. If you have the HID bulbs that move the bulb capsule to retain the high and low beam functionality then it should work a treat.
In fact I'd be in for the kit and a VFRness in a flash.
I'm currently running standard car H4's with snipped tabs, and would love to get more light from less watts. If the bulb moves for the high beam I can probably keep the flash to pass switch I added, which would be all sorts of cool.
Tightwad, on 27 June 2010 - 07:53 AM, said:
RustyA, on 26 June 2010 - 11:18 PM, said:
Man, you guys are killin' me! I just finished up with my Part 2 Mods, and now this. :fing02: Questions, what wattage are you using, 35 or 55 watt bulbs, and what's the brightness? 4,3K would be good. That would be about white. Not blue or purple. Next question. Would I put this in my Part 3 Mods, or Part 4 Mods?
To use this as a power savings, we went with the 35W bulbs. 3 times more light than the halogen bulbs should be sufficient....right? We also opted for the 5000K color, but any color would be available given a bit more lead time.
Well the 5000k would get me slammed by the local LEOS, the state-ies and bounced come inspection time. 4300k is okay as it is just to the yellow side of white, which the state DOT has to accept.
This kit with the dual beam (bi-xenon) bulbs and LED's in all the other 'external' lights would pretty much free up enough watts for me to go with just about any size HHO Cell from the company.
Oh yeah, work out the dual beam part and I'm definitely getting it.
I dual beam kit is available as you said, but I question snipping the tabs. Flash to Pass with HID isn't a great idea either as the bulbs can take up to a minute to reach full power...they can be quite blue until then (it seems to fade off).
I have 12 kits in production, about even split between 4500 and 5000. I have an H7 kit as well for someone who wanted to use them for high beams...that kit will be ready later.
I took my bike out last night to try and get some pictures...my camera washes it out more than I would like, so i will wait to see if Jon gets better shots. I did notice some stray light at the bottom, but nothing that would shine on road I am watching while riding (it seems to be down by the fender). The minimal stray light at the side looks similar to what I got with the Halogen bulbs. I also tried parking the bike and walking towards it. The light at even my 5'8" level was not blinding. If I squatted down it got much brighter.
I will not try to sell anyone on this kit�gotta love it before you buy it in my opinion�if you aren't sure, hold off until you get the reaction from others (price would be the only thing that changes, and that won't be much, initial pricing reflects some shipping savings by bulk purchasing).
Just ask Killboy, he says even during the day they mess up his cameras(HID)
With regards to H7s, what about the fact that you usually switch them on and off more frequently; ie. approaching traffic and then back on once they're gone by?
Wouldn't that be cycling them more often, as well as the delay factor?
Also, I'm looking for the color that best matches this . They make the headlights look yellow in comparison. I think I'll go Xenon 5K for the high beams.
With regards to H7s, what about the fact that you usually switch them on and off more frequently; ie. approaching traffic and then back on once they're gone by?
Wouldn't that be cycling them more often, as well as the delay factor?
Also, I'm looking for the color that best matches this . They make the headlights look yellow in comparison. I think I'll go Xenon 5K for the high beams.
Greg :laughing6-hehe:
COOL :excl: <--My face when I saw Greg's steed.. They must see this thing coming from MILES away! I have been contemplating the this HID kit though, my housemate has a AUS$600 kit in his car, and it is PHENOMENAL. Sounds cool when they are warming up too! I might have to put my name down for a kit also, just let me check my spendings account...
I would not personally choose HID for high beam, but the person who requested it commutes in a rural area...and I can't resist figuring out how to do it...
Any flak from having a red light pointing forward? What about non-amber running lights? I dig the dual color bulbs!
Here's my dumb question - can the kit(s) you are developing be made to work with (non VFR) projector headlights? I know very little about these things...
[image: View Post]The Phantom, on 02 July 2010 - 08:14 AM, said:
Here's my dumb question - can the kit(s) you are developing be made to work with (non VFR) projector headlights? I know very little about these things...
Which part do you want to use with the projector lights? The Latch and Delay parts? I am sure it can be done, what is the application?
In addition to wiring the kits, I also need to write the install instructions...hoping to create a pictorial in PDF format that takes as much guesswork out of the written instructions as possible (VFRness owners, I have listened).
For those who just can't wait to order...the kits are now on my website: www.wiremybike.com
I do not have all the options that will be possible up yet, but the 3 basic kits are there. 4500K, 5000K, and for a $10 upcharge 6000K (I didn't order any, so I would have to get them coming). Pictures will be coming as I prepare the first production kits, the development kit is not representative of the finished product.
As you begin ordering, please keep a couple things in mind:
The kits are not yet finished, so they won't ship until next week at the earliest
By the end of next week I will have been able to ship a total of 5 kits...so first come first served
I bought an even distribution of 4500K and 5000K...so if one is more heavily waited there may be a delay in getting more parts...this should be minimal
These are for off-road use only, as they are not DOT approved
I was unable to secure bulk pricing on some of the parts needed, and the shipping out is higher than I thought it would be, so the price has risen slightly. I will be asking $135 for the two popular options, and $145 for 6000K (or other colors). I am sorry if this extra expense makes it unattractive. Other options will be coming (H7 bulbs for high beam, 55 watt bulbs, etc)
Warranty on the HID portions of the kit (bulbs and ballast) is lifetime through the manufacturer, however I will have to handle all warranty claims as the warranty is for the original purchaser. No refunds will be available, exchanges only. Parts will have to be returned at your expense to be checked prior to replacements being sent out. Warranty on the proprietary electrical parts (Latch and Delay) is one year.
[image: View Post]Tightwad, on 02 July 2010 - 08:49 AM, said:
[image: View Post]The Phantom, on 02 July 2010 - 08:14 AM, said:
Here's my dumb question - can the kit(s) you are developing be made to work with (non VFR) projector headlights? I know very little about these things...
Which part do you want to use with the projector lights? The Latch and Delay parts? I am sure it can be done, what is the application?
Well firstly I have no idea what latch and delay refer to :fing02:
But to answer the second question - I bought an Aprilia RS250 headlight, then a Kawasaki Balius headlight, discovered that the internals (1 x normal reflector light and 1 x projector light on each) were identical, then took the projectors from each and fitted them into a CBR600F4 headlight housing. Still a work in progress like everything else I'm doing but if I can bump up at least one of the projectors output then I'm keen.
I suppose this might be of very limited interest but should light pattern not be acceptable to some of us would it be possible to just order the parts needed to have the lights on delay feature for use with the stock lamps?
[image: View Post]vfrjim2002, on 02 July 2010 - 04:13 PM, said:
TW,
Any luck on the picture of cutoff front?
Working on getting the requested pictures, Coderighter is planning to take some this weekend.
[image: View Post]swimmer, on 02 July 2010 - 04:21 PM, said:
I suppose this might be of very limited interest but should light pattern not be acceptable to some of us would it be possible to just order the parts needed to have the lights on delay feature for use with the stock lamps?
The lights on delay feature is currently the bottleneck in the process. After the kit demand has been satisfied we can explore the individual parts.
Just thinking out loud a bit - The clear part of the 6th gen headlamps do not have any photometric "tricks" built into them to alter the output - it's pretty much all done vis avis the reflectors in the housing. As long as the light source is aiming backwards toward the reflector - I'm certain that the output will be stunning.
When I had my 03 Maxima - its HID system was very good. It also had the burner pointed at the reflectors, and the output came through the clear lens.
Can't wait to see some photos of the output results.
I took some pictures....camera does weird things with HID light, but these show the beam against a wall, farther away from a wall, longer range....plus one looking over the handle bars
Last night I swapped my lights back to stock and took some pic's. Today, I'm putting the HIDs back in. Tonight I'll retake pics with the HIDs in the same matter and post the results tomorrow.
[image: View Post]coderighter, on 03 July 2010 - 02:42 PM, said:
Last night I swapped my lights back to stock and took some pic's. Today, I'm putting the HIDs back in. Tonight I'll retake pics with the HIDs in the same matter and post the results tomorrow.
OK, here's the images. All the pictures except the VFR HID were taken Friday night, HID pictures are from Saturday night. I also included a couple pictures with our '08 BMW with factory adaptive HID's and my company car, an '08 Chevy HHR, with stock halogen headlights to compare against.
In looking at both stock and HID, I would say the patterns are pretty much the same. It's hard to show that in pictures, but that's how I see it.
Because the housing, a 55 watt would just put the amount of light over the top and would be a bad idea.
Around here, I've never heard of anyone getting pulled over for lights. Hell, the other day I saw a cage with purple lights. If you do live in a place where that's a problem, I would go for the 4500k and you should be fine.
I should also note that in the video, Tightwad's lights look a lot more blue than what they really are once warm. When you first light them off, they have quite a bit of blue but as they warm, they get whiter. Once the bulbs are up to temp, they're pretty much just pure white with just a very slight hint of blue.
[image: View Post]Tightwad, on 04 July 2010 - 04:20 PM, said:
It looks like the VFR is closer than the cars to the garage, is this true?
Most have said the VFR has great lights...not compared to a car than can space them 5 feet apart of course, but when compared to other motorcycles
The distance was the same, plus or minus a foot I guess.
To be fair, all the bikes I've owned in the past have had sealed beam type lights with a lot less stray light. I will say the VFR has more light then any bike I've had and the cut off is OK. Given that the bottom lights are low beams only, there was no reason to 'mirror' the bottom of the reflector. The only reason was for aesthetics. Without that, there would be a lot less stray light.
[image: View Post]coderighter, on 04 July 2010 - 02:24 PM, said:
OK, here's the images. First let me say that the headlights in the 6th Gen VFR suck, no matter what bulb.
Are you freakin kidding me?? You seriously think that?? You must be spolied by your beemer, because I've never ridden a bike that lit up thr road better than a 6th gen. :warranty:
Just ordered a 4500k set. Got on tonight searching for replacement HID info. Glad I found this thread. Can't wait to try these out, hope to have them by my next rally July 24th. Thanks, Josh
[image: View Post]Tightwad, on 04 July 2010 - 04:20 PM, said:
Most have said the VFR has great lights... compared to other motorcycles.
I agree whole-heartedly. My '98 VFR H-4 lights are absolutely awesome. Evey time I ride at night I'm amazed at how well they light up the road far ahead and far to the sides. I've spotted lots of creatures eyeballs while they are lurking off the side of the road from quite a distance, giving me plenty of time to react. Try riding through the Adirondacks well after dark on a moonless night. There are eyeball reflections EVERYWHERE you look. Good lighting saves lives!
If you make up a set for 5th Gens, and they perform as well or better than OEM, I'll buy them immediately.
My wife had family in town for the holiday, so I was not allowed to play in the garage...working on the kits over the next couple days to get the first 5 sets out.
Getting closer! The bulbs arrived, and unfortunately, the 4500K bulbs had a different base on them and they won't seal correctly to the dust boot. Rather than try to cobble something together to work, I contacted the supplier and I am arranging to exchange them for the bulbs I based the kit around. The 5000K bulbs are correct, and those kits will be going into production tonight (sounds all official....).
6 orders pending at this time, but the 4500K orders will have a delay as I want only the best bulbs.
[image: View Post]Tightwad, on 07 July 2010 - 01:20 PM, said:
Getting closer! The bulbs arrived, and unfortunately, the 4500K bulbs had a different base on them and they won't seal correctly to the dust boot. Rather than try to cobble something together to work, I contacted the supplier and I am arranging to exchange them for the bulbs I based the kit around. The 5000K bulbs are correct, and those kits will be going into production tonight (sounds all official....).
6 orders pending at this time, but the 4500K orders will have a delay as I want only the best bulbs.
Out of curiosity are you using the Slim Ballast DDM kits?
All orders placed to date have been shipped. I am also now able to sell the Relays (Latch and/or Delay) seperately, for those who already have HID or wish to use similar functionality with the OEM lights.
Latch = $29
Delay = $24
I also have relay connectors if needed....just need time to get everything up on my website...I am terrible at that!
Get ready for the Single light bi-xenon orders to "Trickle" in. I posted the kit on wristtwisters.com and a few of the guys are all over it.
All orders placed to date have been shipped. I am also now able to sell the Relays (Latch and/or Delay) seperately, for those who already have HID or wish to use similar functionality with the OEM lights.
Latch = $29
Delay = $24
I also have relay connectors if needed....just need time to get everything up on my website...I am terrible at that!
Get ready for the Single light bi-xenon orders to "Trickle" in. I posted the kit on wristtwisters.com and a few of the guys are all over it.
As soon as the kits I have invested in sell to those who indicated they wanted them, I will be able to try the next step (single kits and duel beam kits).
As soon as the kits I have invested in sell to those who indicated they wanted them, I will be able to try the next step (single kits and duel beam kits).
LOL... I totally understand what your going through. Been there done that!
PM's sent to each who indicated they were in, so everyone knows they are ready. I will order more lights when I get low, but for now I have at least 7 sets that can ship immediately.
Thanks to those who have already made the leap, this has been fun....and hopefully I will put my bike back together and ride!
Thanks to all who have ordered...I am now down to just 2 kits, either 4500K or 6000K...5000K is out of stock. I will do another run if people are interested.
Installed my kit today. Took about 2 hours start to finish. Only problem is where I mounted the throttle side ballast. It was hitting the fuse block when I tried to mount the front fairing again. I remembered this caution being mentioned earlier after I had already stuck the ballast to the fairing. Everything works as it should. I will get a chance to try the new lights in the next few days.
All orders placed to date have been shipped. I am also now able to sell the Relays (Latch and/or Delay) seperately, for those who already have HID or wish to use similar functionality with the OEM lights.
Latch = $29
Delay = $24
I also have relay connectors if needed....just need time to get everything up on my website...I am terrible at that!
Get ready for the Single light bi-xenon orders to "Trickle" in. I posted the kit on wristtwisters.com and a few of the guys are all over it.
As soon as the kits I have invested in sell to those who indicated they wanted them, I will be able to try the next step (single kits and duel beam kits).
Do you think if and when you would do a single kit it would fit a 2000 RC51??
I am headed out of town for the rest of the week for a "mancation" with my son and other family members...but when I get back I will be available to discuss new options. Does the RC51 use a low beam and a high beam bulb (two bulbs total) or does it have just 1 bulb?
I installed my kit last night. It was absolutely perfect!! The fit and finish where as expected. Thanks again. I have a friend with a Blackbird, it should be a single light set up. I'll take a look and let you know, he'd almost definitely be in for a kit. Have a good mancation. I took one of those 3 weeks ago with my oldest at a Boy Scout camp. Nothing like seeing your 11 year old lay waste to some clay pidgeons with a shotgun... okay back to work.....
I am headed out of town for the rest of the week for a "mancation" with my son and other family members...but when I get back I will be available to discuss new options. Does the RC51 use a low beam and a high beam bulb (two bulbs total) or does it have just 1 bulb?
The RC51 uses 2 seperate lamps. Left lamp is the low beam - 1 bulb - (on all the time) and the right lamp - 1 bulb - only comes on for high beam. I'm just thinking of a HID for the low beam.
I installed my kit last night. It was absolutely perfect!! The fit and finish where as expected. Thanks again. I have a friend with a Blackbird, it should be a single light set up. I'll take a look and let you know, he'd almost definitely be in for a kit. Have a good mancation. I took one of those 3 weeks ago with my oldest at a Boy Scout camp. Nothing like seeing your 11 year old lay waste to some clay pidgeons with a shotgun... okay back to work.....
My kit arrived yesterday and I started the install last night.
The kit looks great. I couldn't get the one low beam headlight connector to release.
Squeezing the tabs on the one connector did nothing at all. I ended up pulling the
boot off, unhooking the wire headlight retaining clip on one side and unscrewing the
wire retainer on the other side to pull out the bulb from the housing with the wires
still attached. It took another half hour to get the connector to release from the bulb.
I have the relays and bulbs installed. I still need to mount the ballasts and connect
the wires into the low beam relay.
Here comes my question. How do you release the low beam and battery wire contacts
from the low beam relay connector housing? The pictorial install in this thread says to
use a jewelers screwdriver or paperclip. I assume I insert it from the wire side of the
housing but on the sides or above and below the wide side or where.
The paper clip is inserted from the connector side, not the wire side. Looking at where the spade terminal goes in, you will notice a recess in the plastic part of the connector. If you slide something small, like a paperclip or tiny nail down that recess, it will depress the locking tab, allowing the wire and connector to slide out the back.
This is an example of the connector, you can see the locking tab sticking up. The recess you need to slide your paper clip into is at the bottom of the plastic part shown: [image: Posted Image]
Quick Question... can you take the reflector off of the HID bulbs? I did not but it 'looks' like it would increase the light output in the VFR's light assembly. It's probably there for a reason...
Quick Question... can you take the reflector off of the HID bulbs? I did not but it 'looks' like it would increase the light output in the VFR's light assembly. It's probably there for a reason...
Yes you can, but no you shouldn't. The reflector keeps the light from bouncing off the bottom of the housing and up into the eyes of oncoming traffic, among other things. Naturally doing so would also void your warranty...
ok... so I just got my 6th Gen VFR and was planning to do an HID kit for it... can I not do it the same way I did my other bike and just get a kit form DDMtuning.com? Is there sometihng special about these headlights that would make that option not work?
ok... so I just got my 6th Gen VFR and was planning to do an HID kit for it... can I not do it the same way I did my other bike and just get a kit form DDMtuning.com? Is there sometihng special about these headlights that would make that option not work?
100% Plug-in, Relays, Bulb Reflectors and supporting a fellow member! That's something special if you ask me?
ok... so I just got my 6th Gen VFR and was planning to do an HID kit for it... can I not do it the same way I did my other bike and just get a kit form DDMtuning.com? Is there sometihng special about these headlights that would make that option not work?
100% Plug-in, Relays, Bulb Reflectors and supporting a fellow member! That's something special if you ask me?
Plus added features like delayed start, etc. Just read the first post. Tightwad's quality of workmanship is second to none as well.
I was a skeptic because of my concern with beam pattern, but I see that this kit includes a shield that deals with this issue. I will be buying one of these myself for a winter project.
ok... so I just got my 6th Gen VFR and was planning to do an HID kit for it... can I not do it the same way I did my other bike and just get a kit form DDMtuning.com? Is there sometihng special about these headlights that would make that option not work?
100% Plug-in, Relays, Bulb Reflectors and supporting a fellow member! That's something special if you ask me?
Plus added features like delayed start, etc. Just read the first post. Tightwad's quality of workmanship is second to none as well.
I was a skeptic because of my concern with beam pattern, but I see that this kit includes a shield that deals with this issue. I will be buying one of these myself for a winter project.
Without Tightwads kit, the lights turn on with the ignition switch then go off once you hit the starter button, only to come back on after the bike starts. HID bulbs and ballasts don't handle quick on-off-on well. With the kit, the first bulb doesn't come on until the bike is running. The second bulb comes on 5 seconds later. Each bulb has a start-up current of 6 amps, then quickly falls to around 3 amps. The delay not only separates the start-up current but looks cool.
Mancation with my son was great, we had a blast being away from the women for a few days before getting back to life and school and such. Of course taking 4 days off meant I had 4 days of catchup. I have ordered an H4 hi/lo kit to check out and see what I can do with...I will leave trimming the tabs to the lucky buyer, but everything else will hopefully be thought out as far as making it plug n play. I also ordered an H7 kit as this appears to be what the RC51 uses....but oddly enough from what I read the bike has an H4 connector, then an H7 adapter? Weird...I thought the same conenctor would work on H4 and H7 (just not the other way around). I will know more soon.
I am still working on the high beam kit for the VFR 6th gen by special request. It will probably be a simple kit, possibly without the bulb to bulb delay unless this is a requested feature. Cost will be cheaper without it of course.
I ordered more 5000K parts as well, since I was out. I have 2 5000K kits and 2 4500K kits not spoken for, so if you want one head to my Website and get your order in.
While the wife was out of town, I decided to take on a project of laying down a stone walkway and expanding the flower beds. It was 105 degrees that weekend. I am not a landscaper. It sucked, but looks good!
I have more 5000K kits available to ship now, and I ordered a Hi/LO H4 kit for the 5th gens who have been requesting it. Looking at the bulbs, I am not sure how the dust boot will be addressed, as the motor portion on the back of the bulb that moves the shield to create the �hi beam� does not appear removeable. Wiring the Latch and Delay will not be a problem, I will only need to know how the relays are currently configured.
I also ordered an H7 kit for the RC51 folks who were interested. The RC51 (not sure about exact years) uses the same H7 style bulb in low and high beam, with the difference being built into the reflector itself. Wiring in HID bulbs would be simple enough, as would adding the delays. From what I understand (haven�t seen an RC51 apart) the wiring harness actually has H4 connectors, with adapters for the bulbs. The bulbs that come with the kit just have spade terminals to plug into the adapters�.but those get removed for the Latch/Delay kit anyway.
If you own an RC51 and are interested in a kit, PM me to work out some of the details.
I just wanted to give a quick update. My bike was torn apart for the whole spring and summer...and I finally decided to start riding again. With the days getting shorter, I am actually getting to use the lights, and I LOVE them! Plenty of light, and looking at where it hits on cars I am behind, I am not blinding anyone. 20 sets have been sold, and I think everyone is happy so far! The only issue we have found seems to be on some bikes the starter switch was/is dirty, and it caused a problem with the HID firing...I think 3 people found this problem.
The only issue we have found seems to be on some bikes the starter switch was/is dirty, and it caused a problem with the HID firing...I think 3 people found this problem.
The HID starters need max voltage to ignite the HID bulbs and when starting the engine the voltage drops, how much depends on how well the battery is charged and it's capacity. It happened to me too a couple of times but my third gen has an on/off switch for the headlights so I can restart the HID by using the switch and not having to restart the engine. On later gen VFRs and US bikes that don't have the headlight switch you can rewire the headlights using the oil pressure switch as a switch to ground for the headlight relays. By doing so the headlights won't come on before the engine is running and voltage has been restored to 12+
I would recommend only rewiring the low beam relay for in case you get stuck by the roadside at night with an engine that won't run you, still have the high beams (or add a parking light like on euro spec bikes).
The only issue we have found seems to be on some bikes the starter switch was/is dirty, and it caused a problem with the HID firing...I think 3 people found this problem.
The HID starters need max voltage to ignite the HID bulbs and when starting the engine the voltage drops, how much depends on how well the battery is charged and it's capacity. It happened to me too a couple of times but my third gen has an on/off switch for the headlights so I can restart the HID by using the switch and not having to restart the engine. On later gen VFRs and US bikes that don't have the headlight switch you can rewire the headlights using the oil pressure switch as a switch to ground for the headlight relays. By doing so the headlights won't come on before the engine is running and voltage has been restored to 12+
I would recommend only rewiring the low beam relay for in case you get stuck by the roadside at night with an engine that won't run you, still have the high beams (or add a parking light like on euro spec bikes).
The voltage sensitive latch relay that comes in the kit does the same thing without rewiring the oil pressure switch. The relay, which looks and wires like a standard Bosch style automotive relay, has a control circuit that measures the voltage input and triggers once the voltage reaches 13.45 VDC (bike started). Once triggered, the relay latchs until the lights (bike) is turned off.
While the wife was out of town, I decided to take on a project of laying down a stone walkway and expanding the flower beds. It was 105 degrees that weekend. I am not a landscaper. It sucked, but looks good!
I have more 5000K kits available to ship now, and I ordered a Hi/LO H4 kit for the 5th gens who have been requesting it. Looking at the bulbs, I am not sure how the dust boot will be addressed, as the motor portion on the back of the bulb that moves the shield to create the �hi beam� does not appear removeable. Wiring the Latch and Delay will not be a problem, I will only need to know how the relays are currently configured.
I also ordered an H7 kit for the RC51 folks who were interested. The RC51 (not sure about exact years) uses the same H7 style bulb in low and high beam, with the difference being built into the reflector itself. Wiring in HID bulbs would be simple enough, as would adding the delays. From what I understand (haven�t seen an RC51 apart) the wiring harness actually has H4 connectors, with adapters for the bulbs. The bulbs that come with the kit just have spade terminals to plug into the adapters�.but those get removed for the Latch/Delay kit anyway.
If you own an RC51 and are interested in a kit, PM me to work out some of the details.
How are the Hi/Lo H4 kits for the 5th gen's coming???
I still want them even though there are some projects that should have priority.
The rc51 does indeed have the adapters from H4 harness sockets down to the H7 bulbs.I can send you pictures to help.
The issue I see with fitting HID's to the RC51 are the following.
While the low beam is on all time, the Hi beam is not, so the delay while the HID strikes the arc may be an issue. And if you are not going to fit an HID in the high beam because of the striking delay, what do you suggest as the standard bulb will just be utterly washed out by the HID low beam.
While the wife was out of town, I decided to take on a project of laying down a stone walkway and expanding the flower beds. It was 105 degrees that weekend. I am not a landscaper. It sucked, but looks good!
I have more 5000K kits available to ship now, and I ordered a Hi/LO H4 kit for the 5th gens who have been requesting it. Looking at the bulbs, I am not sure how the dust boot will be addressed, as the motor portion on the back of the bulb that moves the shield to create the �hi beam� does not appear removeable. Wiring the Latch and Delay will not be a problem, I will only need to know how the relays are currently configured.
I also ordered an H7 kit for the RC51 folks who were interested. The RC51 (not sure about exact years) uses the same H7 style bulb in low and high beam, with the difference being built into the reflector itself. Wiring in HID bulbs would be simple enough, as would adding the delays. From what I understand (haven�t seen an RC51 apart) the wiring harness actually has H4 connectors, with adapters for the bulbs. The bulbs that come with the kit just have spade terminals to plug into the adapters�.but those get removed for the Latch/Delay kit anyway.
If you own an RC51 and are interested in a kit, PM me to work out some of the details.
How are the Hi/Lo H4 kits for the 5th gen's coming???
I still want them even though there are some projects that should have priority.
The rc51 does indeed have the adapters from H4 harness sockets down to the H7 bulbs.I can send you pictures to help.
The issue I see with fitting HID's to the RC51 are the following.
While the low beam is on all time, the Hi beam is not, so the delay while the HID strikes the arc may be an issue. And if you are not going to fit an HID in the high beam because of the striking delay, what do you suggest as the standard bulb will just be utterly washed out by the HID low beam.
The reason for the high beam is partly angle of light (angled higher to throw it farther). I think a stock bulb for the RC51 would be fine for high beam, even with the stronger HID light as the low beam. The 6th gen uses stock high beam bulbs.
The 5th gen kit has to come...I am getting emails from multiple people...I apologize for not finishing it sooner, but between A.D.D., kids, surgeries, etc I tend to lose focus sometimes. I have cleared some space in the garage to lay out the parts for comparison. There was a thread where someone installed HID in the 5th gen. I can't figure out how to use the search function, but if I can find that thread it will help, as I don't have a 5th gen to trial fit on etc.
If anyone is located in the DFW area, and is interested in fitting an HID kit, let me know and we can set up a time to do a custom install.
The 5th gen kit has to come...I am getting emails from multiple people...I apologize for not finishing it sooner, but between A.D.D., kids, surgeries, etc I tend to lose focus sometimes. I have cleared some space in the garage to lay out the parts for comparison. There was a thread where someone installed HID in the 5th gen. I can't figure out how to use the search function, but if I can find that thread it will help, as I don't have a 5th gen to trial fit on etc.
If anyone is located in the DFW area, and is interested in fitting an HID kit, let me know and we can set up a time to do a custom install.
Count me in as another interested party for a 5th gen kit. Looks like you did your homework on the 6th gen. :fing02:
The stock lights are pretty good, but you really can't have lights are are too good. The dust boot doesn't look like a huge issue as I'm sure there is something out there that can be made to work.
Tightwad et al, why aren't you using the factory low beam circuit with it's relay? Why bother with running a new power wire back to the battery? The HID kits are lower power consumption than stock H4 bulbs so the factory wiring should be more than adequate. I'm not a big fan of running another battery power line up to the front that could lead to reliability issues down the road. In fact, why not just replace the factory low beam relay with your fancy latch relay and use the DDM kit as intended - connected up to the stock H4 bulb connector?
Hmmm, after reflection, I suppose this has to do with the delay of the 2nd lamp. Feeding the delay relay for the 2nd lamp off the latch relay for the 1st lamp connected to just the factory harness for one lamp would have the power for both lamps running through just one OEM harness wire - is that the problem?
Tightwad et al, why aren't you using the factory low beam circuit with it's relay? Why bother with running a new power wire back to the battery? The HID kits are lower power consumption than stock H4 bulbs so the factory wiring should be more than adequate. I'm not a big fan of running another battery power line up to the front that could lead to reliability issues down the road. In fact, why not just replace the factory low beam relay with your fancy latch relay and use the DDM kit as intended - connected up to the stock H4 bulb connector?
Hmmm, after reflection, I suppose this has to do with the delay of the 2nd lamp. Feeding the delay relay for the 2nd lamp off the latch relay for the 1st lamp connected to just the factory harness for one lamp would have the power for both lamps running through just one OEM harness wire - is that the problem?
Even thou the HID require less current in normal operation, there is a large in surge of current to at start up to strike the arc. If the voltage drops too low during start-up, it won't light off. The separate circuit is good insurance.
Awesome mod, awesome craftsmanship, and as someone else said it looks like I would have done it. Very glad I stumbled upon this thread, the 6th gen kit is now on my list of things to upgrade. Thanks Tightwad for constantly tinkering with stuff to make our VFR's better!!
[image: View Post]coderighter, on 20 December 2010 - 05:19 PM, said:
[image: View Post]BartmanEH, on 20 December 2010 - 03:50 PM, said:
Tightwad et al, why aren't you using the factory low beam circuit with it's relay? Why bother with running a new power wire back to the battery? The HID kits are lower power consumption than stock H4 bulbs so the factory wiring should be more than adequate. I'm not a big fan of running another battery power line up to the front that could lead to reliability issues down the road. In fact, why not just replace the factory low beam relay with your fancy latch relay and use the DDM kit as intended - connected up to the stock H4 bulb connector?
Hmmm, after reflection, I suppose this has to do with the delay of the 2nd lamp. Feeding the delay relay for the 2nd lamp off the latch relay for the 1st lamp connected to just the factory harness for one lamp would have the power for both lamps running through just one OEM harness wire - is that the problem?
Even thou the HID require less current in normal operation, there is a large in surge of current to at start up to strike the arc. If the voltage drops too low during start-up, it won't light off. The separate circuit is good insurance.
In addition to this, which is the main reason, many have found an improvement in the lights by running a dedicated circuit. The wiring on the VFR is very thin, and has a bit of voltage loss across it.
So I started looking at the dual beam kit for the older gens. Here is how it works unmodified:
Headlights are disconnected, bulbs are removed.
One headlight connector is connected to the wiring harness for the HID kit.
Wiring harness has battery connections (fused) included.
Both bulbs are trigged from the one headlight connection...so the second bulb connector is left alone.
There is a relay in the wiring kit that works with both low and high beam. I don't know why they used it however, as the high beam is already relayed.
Each bulb has it's own ballast.
Each bulb also has a small 2 pin plug for the high beam solenoid.
I determined I could bypass their relay module which is really just activating the high beam solenoid, and just use the low/high beam relays to do the same thing, but there isn't a cost savings to do so, just a potential reduction in the wiring. The options I think we have (and i need input from the 5th gen owners on) are:
#1. Use the voltage latch relay instead of the low beam relay, and leave all else as is. This would mean both bulbs fire at the same time, but not until the charging voltage is above 13.2V as determined by the Latch relay.
#2. Partially re-engineer their kit to allow the addition of the bulb#2 delay relay as well by adding it inline with the second bulb. This would allow the use of both Latch and Delay relays as the 6th gen has.
#3. Completely change the kit, doing away with the added relay, and using the output of the high beam relay to trigger the solenoids inside the bulb housing. This would also allow the use of both Latch and Delay relays as the 6th gen has.
#4. Do away with the factory high and low beam relays, and use the kit as is.
#5. Same as #4, but re-engineer the kit to use the Latch and Delay relays along with their relay.
The cost will naturally vary depending on the final option choice. It woudl be helpful to have a 5th gen to try this on, as space limitations may dictate the best options.
[image: View Post]Tightwad, on 31 December 2010 - 05:31 PM, said:
So I started looking at the dual beam kit for the older gens. Here is how it works unmodified:
Headlights are disconnected, bulbs are removed.
One headlight connector is connected to the wiring harness for the HID kit.
Wiring harness has battery connections (fused) included.
Both bulbs are trigged from the one headlight connection...so the second bulb connector is left alone.
There is a relay in the wiring kit that works with both low and high beam. I don't know why they used it however, as the high beam is already relayed.
Each bulb has it's own ballast.
Each bulb also has a small 2 pin plug for the high beam solenoid.
I determined I could bypass their relay module which is really just activating the high beam solenoid, and just use the low/high beam relays to do the same thing, but there isn't a cost savings to do so, just a potential reduction in the wiring. The options I think we have (and i need input from the 5th gen owners on) are:
#1. Use the voltage latch relay instead of the low beam relay, and leave all else as is. This would mean both bulbs fire at the same time, but not until the charging voltage is above 13.2V as determined by the Latch relay.
#2. Partially re-engineer their kit to allow the addition of the bulb#2 delay relay as well by adding it inline with the second bulb. This would allow the use of both Latch and Delay relays as the 6th gen has.
#3. Completely change the kit, doing away with the added relay, and using the output of the high beam relay to trigger the solenoids inside the bulb housing. This would also allow the use of both Latch and Delay relays as the 6th gen has.
#4. Do away with the factory high and low beam relays, and use the kit as is.
#5. Same as #4, but re-engineer the kit to use the Latch and Delay relays along with their relay.
The cost will naturally vary depending on the final option choice. It woudl be helpful to have a 5th gen to try this on, as space limitations may dictate the best options.
Any thoughts?
Hooooooooly crap dude, I think you're giving us too many options. I'm pretty electrical and mechanical savvy and you confused me with all them choices. I think the best option would be the one that requires the least disturbance of factory parts so that it would ease the install. Seems to me the guys here are willing to pay a bit more if the farkles are of sound design and easily installed. As far as I'm concerned you made a very easy job with the 6th gen kit, and a great design as well. Keep the 5th gen kit as similar to the 6th gen as possible and I feel the VFRD gods will smile upon you!! Just my opinion though.
DDM Tuning no longer carries the slim ballast HID kits that were used as a base for the VFR kit. I am still able to supply the Relays and even specific wiring for other kits, but I won't be supplying the HID hardware until I can purchase the same kits again. I do not like selling products I haven't used myself, or had very good reviews from people I trust. Sorry to the 5th gen owners who expressed interest in a kit, it didn't happen prior to the ballasts going away. I do have the bulbs for the 5th gen, and will still look at developing a kit for when the parts are available again.
[image: View Post]Tightwad, on 31 December 2010 - 05:31 PM, said:
So I started looking at the dual beam kit for the older gens. Here is how it works unmodified:
Headlights are disconnected, bulbs are removed.
One headlight connector is connected to the wiring harness for the HID kit.
Wiring harness has battery connections (fused) included.
Both bulbs are trigged from the one headlight connection...so the second bulb connector is left alone.
There is a relay in the wiring kit that works with both low and high beam. I don't know why they used it however, as the high beam is already relayed.
Each bulb has it's own ballast.
Each bulb also has a small 2 pin plug for the high beam solenoid.
I determined I could bypass their relay module which is really just activating the high beam solenoid, and just use the low/high beam relays to do the same thing, but there isn't a cost savings to do so, just a potential reduction in the wiring. The options I think we have (and i need input from the 5th gen owners on) are:
#1. Use the voltage latch relay instead of the low beam relay, and leave all else as is. This would mean both bulbs fire at the same time, but not until the charging voltage is above 13.2V as determined by the Latch relay.
#2. Partially re-engineer their kit to allow the addition of the bulb#2 delay relay as well by adding it inline with the second bulb. This would allow the use of both Latch and Delay relays as the 6th gen has.
#3. Completely change the kit, doing away with the added relay, and using the output of the high beam relay to trigger the solenoids inside the bulb housing. This would also allow the use of both Latch and Delay relays as the 6th gen has.
#4. Do away with the factory high and low beam relays, and use the kit as is.
#5. Same as #4, but re-engineer the kit to use the Latch and Delay relays along with their relay.
The cost will naturally vary depending on the final option choice. It woudl be helpful to have a 5th gen to try this on, as space limitations may dictate the best options.
[image: View Post]Tightwad, on 13 February 2011 - 10:07 PM, said:
DDM Tuning no longer carries the slim ballast HID kits that were used as a base for the VFR kit. I am still able to supply the Relays and even specific wiring for other kits, but I won't be supplying the HID hardware until I can purchase the same kits again. I do not like selling products I haven't used myself, or had very good reviews from people I trust. Sorry to the 5th gen owners who expressed interest in a kit, it didn't happen prior to the ballasts going away. I do have the bulbs for the 5th gen, and will still look at developing a kit for when the parts are available again.
What brand were the slim ballasts, Tight'..
I've got contact with a local HID supplier that used to supply the cycle shop. They only sell to resellers so they don't even bother with a website, but I could contact them and find out if they have the slim ballasts you want to use.
I have 5 kits on order...product has landed in the US and I should receive them in the next couple weeks. I believe 2-3 are tentatively spoken for, and I need to hold one for the 5th gen development, but I should hopefully have a couple to offer up soon!
With the vast offering of HID components out there, I was not comfortable changing brands/types of ballasts. I am glad these are available to build kits from again!
For the 5th gen, Option 3 looks like the best one, and has netted the best feedback. Of course this also has the most engineering needed to get everything tidy and fitting in place. I have multiple offers of 5th gen owners who can help, but I would prefer to find one in the DFW area who would bring their bike by...this would save a ton of time and confusion I think.
[image: View Post]Tightwad, on 10 March 2011 - 02:41 PM, said:
I have 5 kits on order...product has landed in the US and I should receive them in the next couple weeks. I believe 2-3 are tentatively spoken for, and I need to hold one for the 5th gen development, but I should hopefully have a couple to offer up soon!
With the vast offering of HID components out there, I was not comfortable changing brands/types of ballasts. I am glad these are available to build kits from again!
For the 5th gen, Option 3 looks like the best one, and has netted the best feedback. Of course this also has the most engineering needed to get everything tidy and fitting in place. I have multiple offers of 5th gen owners who can help, but I would prefer to find one in the DFW area who would bring their bike by...this would save a ton of time and confusion I think.
I hope my name is on the tentative list. I am soooo looking forward to getting these installed. Thanks TW.
[image: View Post]Vecky5, on 10 March 2011 - 02:54 PM, said:
[image: View Post]Tightwad, on 10 March 2011 - 02:41 PM, said:
I have 5 kits on order...product has landed in the US and I should receive them in the next couple weeks. I believe 2-3 are tentatively spoken for, and I need to hold one for the 5th gen development, but I should hopefully have a couple to offer up soon!
With the vast offering of HID components out there, I was not comfortable changing brands/types of ballasts. I am glad these are available to build kits from again!
For the 5th gen, Option 3 looks like the best one, and has netted the best feedback. Of course this also has the most engineering needed to get everything tidy and fitting in place. I have multiple offers of 5th gen owners who can help, but I would prefer to find one in the DFW area who would bring their bike by...this would save a ton of time and confusion I think.
I hope my name is on the tentative list. I am soooo looking forward to getting these installed. Thanks TW.
I notified the owners who I had on my list (not complete I am sure), as I was just notified of the fulfillment of my order. I have also reactivated them on my site.
[image: View Post]Tightwad, on 10 March 2011 - 02:41 PM, said:
With the vast offering of HID components out there, I was not comfortable changing brands/types of ballasts. I am glad these are available to build kits from again!
I wasn't suggesting that you change the brand of ballasts that you use, I was only suggesting that I might be able to find you another source for them .
[image: View Post]RC51Nick, on 23 March 2011 - 02:54 PM, said:
Any more info on a possible RC51 kit?
Thanks,
Nick
Very possible, I think i even have the parts. What I don't have is an RC51, so it would require a bit of back and forth via email and phone if you wanted to pursue one. Feel free to call me at 972.955.2331 or email me at Tilton@gmail.com. I am available typically from 6pm- 11pm (up later usually) central time.
Any updates on the moveable H4's?
I'd really like to get a set on my 5th gen, both for the great amount of light they throw and the reduced wattage compared to the auto H4's I'm running now.
[image: View Post]JES_VFR, on 25 May 2011 - 02:31 AM, said:
Any updates on the moveable H4's?
I'd really like to get a set on my 5th gen, both for the great amount of light they throw and the reduced wattage compared to the auto H4's I'm running now.
I would also like to get the HID kit for my 5th gen (& VFRness at the same time). Just checked wiremybike.com and it doesn't look like the 5th gen HID kit is in production yet. Any idea when it may be ready?
Well since the wonderful state of NJ has backed away from annual safety inspections, I've pretty much run out of reasons not to do an HID conversion on my 5th gen.
I like the latch and delay relays of tightwads setup, but I have to admit, I'm considering a mini-projector based swap.
It may be past my bedtime and I missed it, but what happens to the high beam on the 6th Gen when the HIDs are installed? I would like to have HIDs in the low beams and retain the halogen highs for flashing/illuminating trees. Also, MA inspection requires a high beam, and I am not keen on the mechanical HID high beam.
[image: View Post]JoeQ, on 16 September 2011 - 10:03 PM, said:
It may be past my bedtime and I missed it, but what happens to the high beam on the 6th Gen when the HIDs are installed? I would like to have HIDs in the low beams and retain the halogen highs for flashing/illuminating trees. Also, MA inspection requires a high beam, and I am not keen on the mechanical HID high beam.
Your stock hi beam bulbs should still operate normally with the HID kit installed as you're only disturbing the low beam circuts on the bike. From what most have said after installing the HID's, the brights no longer make that much of a difference though.
I have two H4 Dual Beam kits in pre-production (that's for you 5th gen folks!) the bulbs are 5000K.
I also have an H7 RC51 kit in pre-production. This is a different beast as the low/high beams are two separate bulbs.
For those who are wondering, I still use DDM tuning kits as the base. Their price went up a bit, and shipping is now direct from China so it takes a bit more time than it used to.
[image: View Post]FrankoQ, on 02 October 2011 - 09:01 PM, said:
Please confirm, the ballasts are held by double-sided tape only. correct?
This is correct. Originally the kits came with 3m white foam tape. They no longer include them from DDM, so I am using 3M trim tape. With where I place them, even if they came loose they can't go anywhere...but no issue so far.
[image: View Post]Tightwad, on 02 October 2011 - 11:22 PM, said:
[image: View Post]FrankoQ, on 02 October 2011 - 09:01 PM, said:
Please confirm, the ballasts are held by double-sided tape only. correct? This is correct. Originally the kits came with 3m white foam tape. They no longer include them from DDM, so I am using 3M trim tape. With where I place them, even if they came loose they can't go anywhere...but no issue so far.
Thanks for the confirmation.
This is a great addition to my 6th gen, but for some reason the LHS Ballast never really adhered to the body. I suppose I never really
located the correct flat spot to stick it to. Nevertheless everything works just fine with it just drifting around in that cavity. The only trouble is when I remove the front cowl
I have to be careful when putting it back on again that i don't catch the wires on something.
So, after 30,000 or so KM with it like this, no problems.
All the instructions are pretty clear and nicely done. THANKS!
I took one afternoon to start removing all and do some of the wiring.
The next day, I did the ballasts and bulbs and put all back together.
instructions say ground cable to screw near brake hose. But kit instructions indicate to run it to the ground of the battery.
I found it easier to remove left and right side panels. It is easier to try to fit the side panels to the headlight assembly than the headlight assembly to the side panels.
Removing the gauge face plate took a while just to make sure I did not damage it when pulling it. There are tabs on either side. I was first able to undo the groomets and then I had to deal with the side tabs.
low beam relay connector wiring. removing the 2 indicated wires took me a while but it was done fine.
putting all back together was a little painful for a first timer. I ended up setting a table in front of the bike where I can sit the head unit close enough to the bike to start making the wire connections. Then, I power it and verified all was working fine. I was not going to put it all back together and later find out there was a problem. lol.
once wires were connected to headlight unit, I just pushed it in place... carefully and started to reverse steps to install it.
next were the left and right panels and it was done.
I got the 6K kit. the pics show a lot of blue but in reality it looks mostly white.
Nice review! The ground instructions changed because we opted for a direct battery ground after some people had problems that could have been ground related (they weren't).
the 6000K lights have more blue than I personally like, but not bad. I don't even offer higher because I don't like them....selfish I suppose.
Ordered a 5k kit.
Seen an early R6 cruising around with bright lights and had to have them.
Thought it was a simple case of changing globes. +50s made stuff all difference and white ones were whiter but no brighter.
This must be the way to do it. Sounds like a quality set up. Look forward to taking delivery.
Just an update for those who have been asking...a 5th gen kit is close! I have a co-worker with a 1998 VFR that has agreed to let me use his bike for the measurements needed for a custom fit kit. I have 3 Hi/Lo kits on hand to make into 6th gen kits.
Ok, I have added the Hi/Lo H4 kit to my offerings. I took a different approach to this kit and made it a bit more of a "universal fit". I don't have pictures/videos for a how-to guide. I am hoping that this community can help in that respect.
The kit is similar to the 6th gen kit but includes the Hi/Lo functionality. This increases the cost of the kit by my cost (+$20) but everything else remains the same. The kit will utilize the original H4 connector to trigger the high beam functionality.
I fully expect the kit to change slightly based on initial feedback as well.
[image: View Post]Veefer800Canuck, on 29 March 2012 - 09:49 AM, said:
Can you explan the Hi/Lo functionality for us who have not been following along?
I thought that HID's were either on or off. How do you get hi/lo out of them?
BTW, my new stator is working great, 14V no problems.
Sorry, I thought we had discussed this. No problem explaining.
The hi/lo bulbs have a motor on them that actually moved the bulb within the housing. This puts the beam into the "high beam" area of the reflector inside the headlight, allowing the beam to shine higher than normal. The bulb doesn't get brighter, it just changes the output. I will try to post a video of it in action.
I have no personal experience with these setups so I can't offer anecdotal evidence. I suggest people investigate fully so they know what they are buying. I wouldn't normally offer anything I couldn't firmly stand behind with my own personal experience but this has been an oft requested item.
[image: View Post]Tightwad, on 29 March 2012 - 10:31 AM, said:
I have no personal experience with these setups so I can't offer anecdotal evidence.
I have a HID bulb like this for some years now and it works brilliant.
[image: View Post]V4 Rosso, on 29 March 2012 - 03:40 PM, said:
[image: View Post]Tightwad, on 29 March 2012 - 10:31 AM, said:
I have no personal experience with these setups so I can't offer anecdotal evidence.
I have a HID bulb like this for some years now and it works brilliant.
Thanks for the comment!
I reiterate again to those considering...if you have any qualms or concerns please don't order. I haven't heard of anyone having issues but without first hand information I hesitate to make any guarantees and I wouldn't want anyone to be disappointed.
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