Engine off best practice
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Cruiser
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 120
Likes: 0
From: Florida
Engine off best practice
I know some riders who turn the engine off via the ignition switch.
I also know some riders who turn the engine off via the cut-off switch.
Which is a better practice?
Ignition users say that doing this prevents the drainage of battery when parking as sometimes people forget to kill the ignition completely leaving their headlights on.
While
The Engine cut off users say the engine cut off switch is in place to be used and should be used instead of the ignition. As using the ignition is thought to ruin the starting stopping of the motor.
I know nothing of the sort so I come to ask.
What do you all think?
I also know some riders who turn the engine off via the cut-off switch.
Which is a better practice?
Ignition users say that doing this prevents the drainage of battery when parking as sometimes people forget to kill the ignition completely leaving their headlights on.
While
The Engine cut off users say the engine cut off switch is in place to be used and should be used instead of the ignition. As using the ignition is thought to ruin the starting stopping of the motor.
I know nothing of the sort so I come to ask.
What do you all think?
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 4,271
Likes: 29
From: Green Country,Oklahoma
Check your manuel,newer bikes with EFI,turn off by kill switch first.Also a good safety practice,to know where switch is and used to using it.If you are so spaced or don't ride often enough to turn key switch off,oh well.
Tourer
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 273
Likes: 0
From: Milwaukee
Ah good, a poll! 
For me as well: engine cutoff toggle, then ignition switch.
At the risk of thread-hijack accusations, but since it's kinda related; how many people with keyless security actually lock the ignition switch versus relying solely on the security system? (I don't usually use the key)
For me as well: engine cutoff toggle, then ignition switch.
At the risk of thread-hijack accusations, but since it's kinda related; how many people with keyless security actually lock the ignition switch versus relying solely on the security system? (I don't usually use the key)
Road Master
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 1,026
Likes: 0
From: Carroll County, Maryland
I only use the ignition. Every time I turn off the kill switch, I forget and then the next day I wonder why she won't start. I get worried, and embarassed since it always happens when someone is around. After a moment of panic, I have that "oh ****" moment and swear to never turn off the kill switch ever again.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 5,577
Likes: 138
From: South of Dallas Area, Texas
I used to use the kill switch all the time and then the ignition. I thought I was having a kill switch issue so I stopped using it. Now I just turn off the ignition and leave the kill alone. I have to turn off the ignition and wear it out, but not the kill. I dont see how it matters anyway.
MikeM
MikeM
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Road Warrior
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 1,725
Likes: 2
From: Los Angeles
I dont think it matters either. But I do use the kill switch first and then the ignition. Just habit I guess.
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Road Master
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 1,070
Likes: 2
From: Lafayette, LA.
I never use the kill switch. I have been around a few people who have and forgot to turn off the ignition after they shut it down with the switch in turn killed the battery. Try finding a new Harley battery in Bum Fu#k Egypt on Sunday morning.