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So I changed out the stock bulb with a HID H4 bulb thinking I'd get better night vision out of it but instead the beam seems so white/blue its non existent. wtf.
At least with the stock bulbs that mustard yellow beam would shine out in front. I only paid $5 for it on ebay so I got what I paid for but want to get something brighter.
First off, it's most likely not an HID bulb, especially if you only paid $5 for it. If it's a coated or colored glass bulb, that right there means diminished light output in standard halogen type bulbs.
The only real ways you're going to get more light output is to buy a higher wattage bulb, change the actual headlight assembly or use an actual HID lighting system including the proper ballasts.
J&P cycles & Drag Specialities both sell an 80- 100w H-4 bulb that works real good. Been using them in my 06 & 07 XL's since I bought them. No problems in over 30k miles. They make higher wattage bulbs but they require heavier duty wiring & no plastic plugs, cause they'll melt.
HID, there have been several threads in the dyna section lately where i have done how to's and step by step... do a search if you can not find it let me know mroe than happy to help!
I run the Wagner BriteLite xenon bulbs in both of my bikes. Really bright, white light and last as long as any other 9003-H4 bulbs. Best part, about $20 delivered for 2 from Brandsport.com.
If you don't want to HID conversion, get an Adjure or other aftermarket lamp with clear lens and wave reflector and an Osram NightBreaker bulb. World of difference. http://www.adjureinc.com/pnt50400.html
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