I think it's to stop a runaway engine if the throttle somehow got disconnected from the fuel control.

I use the kill switch then turn off the ignition switch. Turning on the bike I turn on the kill switch and turn on the ignition. Works for me.

 

A while ago, I used to use the kill switch until at night with gloves once I hit the starter while it was running to produce that ugly noise. I floated your same question and found that most just use the ignition switch. that's where I am.

 

my 2¢ worth... I've been a mechanic most of my life, industrial, automotive, marine, doesnt matter. A combustible engine works under the same principle in each field. The kill switch cuts power to engine components. The ignition switch provides power to all components. When you cut the engine off either way it still rotates til it comes to a stop. I remember how condensors work in the old point/condensor systems. The excess power is obsorbed by the condensor to keep from burning the points. No we no longer use that system, but I can't help think that just cutting power totally could leave some radical protons bouncing around so I use the kill switch.

Oh yeh, also, I was raised in the military so I was taught not to question procedure just procede as instructed and don't waste the time of the instructor by making him/her explain the minor details, the result is the same whether you understand or not. Sometimes the understanding comes a while after the instruction.

Although I do agree that some things must always be questioned, there are some things which shouldn't be, especially if the only accomplishment is to save physical energy avoiding another push on a button. If I save 2 seconds each time I shut down my bike, how long would it take me to get enough time saved for another ride? you do the math, i'm tired now.

 

I have always used the kill switch first, then the ignition. Like others said, there will be no hesitation if you need it in an emergency. It has to do with safety as much as anything. Your hand is still near the brake and the memory thing. I can't remember why it's better for the bike, something to do with the electronics probably.
I helped a guy one time who couldn't find his kill switch. He rammed his EG into a car and it was stuck into the fender with his bike doing a burn out! I had to do it for him. I don't use my horn all the time and sometimes I miss it. Same with the kill. It's just habit now.

 

Never use the kill switch.

 

the owners manual says to use the kill switch. I find that many times i use the kill switch and have to walk back to the bike to turn off the ignition. i back into parking so i can leave easily. i shut the engine off when backing so there can be a lapse between the kill switch and the ignition which allows my 62 year old brain to forget the ignition. LOL.

 

What does the manuel say? If you don't want to follow the manufactors procedure then don't.

 

I'm mechanically inclined.... I can screw anything up!

I use the kill switch, figgering that if it wasn't needed, it wouldn't be there...

 

I used to use the kill switch until the first time i forgot to turn the ignition switch off and cashed my battery. Now i almost always use the ignition switch.

 

I have always used the kill switch to stop the bike then turn off the ignition. Starting the bike, I turn on the ignition, flip the kill switch and hit the starter button.