Hey all,
Got a question about the ground cable on the top fork bracket that connects to the right side (bottom) of the riser bolt.
What does this thing do? Will it jack something up if I remove it?
It sure looks like crap and does not look important.
I have an 07 Night Train.

Thanks

S/F
Freefall

 

I believe that its there for a couple of different reasons. The primary one being to maintain a frame ground circuit to all parts of the bikes physical structure. That way there is no possibility of it ever becoming electrically 'hot' should a wire for whatever reason short out to it.

You wouldn't want your grandfather to decide he wants to try your bike out and get his pacemaker get zapped by a stray electrical charge would you?

While its not an absolute necessity, the bike will run just fine without it, at least for the time being. Just remember that the MOCO doesn't pay engineers to put parts on that are unnecessary and cut into their profit margin so I would leave it alone if I were you.

PS:
If your not happy with its appearance there is no reason you can't replace it with something a little more 'visually appealing' or even invisible.

 

Thanks for the feedback.
The main reason I asked is that I bought some bolt covers for the riser bolts and the right one will not fit over the ground strap.

I may have to figure out a way to reroute it.

S/F
Freefall

 

It is a bonding jumper used to maintain continuity between the frame and the forks. So you don't have to rely on the connection through the neck bearings.

 

Thanks

Here are the covers I have.

http://www.jpcycles.com/Search/Produ...rch&results=10

S/F
Freefall

 

Do you have pics of them installed on the bike?

 

you should be able to relocate it

 

No pics yet.
The left side is on an looks great. Right one will not fit the way it is now.
I'll try to get some pics tomorrow.

S/F
Freefall

 

If you have a Dremel tool or small rat tail jewelers file you could just put a small notch in the cover to clear the wire. Just loosen the bolt and reorient the wire to the rear and the notch won't be visible.

 

Great idea, I'll take a look when I have some time this weekend.

Here are some pics if it works: