Headlamps upgrade

[xrv_jim]

Winter approacheth and I'd like a bit more illumination up front on dark winter mornings and evenings. So, is anybody running 100/80w headlamp bulbs in their AT instead of the standard 60/55w?

Can any autoelectrical bods tell me whether the standard generator output is up to it?

[LaughingBob]

I did on my previous @ and didn't have any problems. I used the 'Phillips Blue' bulbs. The lights were almost as good as the Varadero with them in. LB.

[xrv_jim]

Cheers Bob, I'll give it a go. I replaced the battery earlier in the year so hopefully I won't expose any weaknesses in the system with an increased load.

[LaughingBob]

Just remembered, at the same as replacing the bulbs I took off the Touratech headlamp guard which also improved the lighting as the guard, a clear plastic job, reflected the light to the sides. LB.

[SteveLee]

I have a pair of PIAA 55W lights fitted to work alongside main beam. I checked the voltage with these on and found that the charging system barely copes with the extra load. I think using 100W bulbs would be pushing it a bit - the alternator is only rated at 360W.

Steve

[Maverick]

Out of all my bikes I had the AT is definitely lethal when it comes to the lights, mine is super bright and actually thought of putting in smaller bulbs. I constantly get flashed by oncoming traffic and then take the paint of their bonnets with my high beam and keep my head down for incoming aircraft

It could be that my lights are set to high as well....

[banger]

[quote]I have a pair of PIAA 55W lights fitted to work alongside main beam. I checked the voltage with these on and found that the charging system barely copes with the extra load. I think using 100W bulbs would be pushing it a bit - the alternator is only rated at 360W.



Up grade to 100 W bulbs will increase demand by 80W
2 X 55W spots will increase demand by 110W

[HelmetHair]

I bought and fitted some xenon bulbs (the ones that claim to be whiter light) to my car 5 years ago. Being the mistrusting type, I changed one at a time. The difference form the old to new was very very obvious, and I can recommend them. They still run at 55w, but are much better.
this of course assumes that the @ uses same type of bulbs-I've never replaced mine, but would use the xenon ones when I do!

[HelmetHair]

Just found this on the 'net, if Halfords isn't close! (or is closed)....


http://www.norbsa02.freeuk.com/goffybulbsnew.htm

[xrv_jim]

Up grade to 100 W bulbs will increase demand by 80W
2 X 55W spots will increase demand by 110W

Yep, and in fact I don't ride that much a night. Most of the time they'll be on dip - 2 X 80w - so that's only a 50w increase overall. I just want something a bit brighter to scare car drivers with on these darker winter evenings.