The doc got it right. The kill switch is primarily for emergencies when you need to "kill" the engine in a hurry and you can't or don't want to remove either hand from the grips.

Using it every time is to get yourself into the habit of using it, so that the action becomes instinctive.

 

I ask a Harley mechanic about the kill switch and why the manual says to always use it. He said that if you use the keyed, on - off switch, without using the kill switch, it spikes the processor. I am not so sure that I believe that, but it is what he said.

 

+1 Worlok - I heard about the same thing...

 

I use mine out of habit. I think I use it because I rode ATV's for a long time. They never had keys so using the kill switch was how I shut down. It also seemed to get hammer in when I took the safety course a couple years ago.

 

Because it's there?

 

Part of the deal with using the kill switch for starting and stopping the motor is to help distribute the electrical load on the electrical system. Sudden on and off cycles can cause electrical spikes that can end up creating other problems. By using the kill switch in conjunction with the rest of the starting sequence you put less of a load on the ignition switch itself and powering up in stages. Think about how you start your car or truck. You turn on the ignition which powers up the fuel system then you start then you turn on your lights. On a bike we need to do the reverse because the lights come on when you turn the ignition. Then by using the kill switch you now power up the fuel system for starting. Remember the battery, starter and alternator system aren't as robust on these things like an auto.

 

I am no electrical genius and dont claim to know all of the ins and outs of HD ECMs, but I think I have to call BS on all the reasons that relate to spiking the ECM, loading the electrical system, etc.

It is for emergencies and to use in the event you need to shut down when you cant get your hands off the bars. Newbies are taught to use it to get in the habit so that in the event of an emergency, they can automatically reach for the switch and keep their eyes on the road.

 

Sometimes when I am backing in and want to shut down the volume (people, children right behind me or when hillside stopping I will use the kill switch.

 

Bingo!