Kill switch question?
Road Captain
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 698
Likes: 13
Havent used the kill switch in years.
Road Warrior
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 1,988
Likes: 17
From: Between Fort Worth and Wichita Falls Texas
I have never used a kill switch in 45+ years of riding. Don't even know "exactly" where it is. However, on my wife's Can-Am Spyder it is highly suggested you use it and strange things do happen if you don't. Like losing some preset settings on radio/cb.
HDF Community Team
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 6,191
Likes: 2,420
From: USA
Way back in the time of dinosaurs, when I started riding, I discovered I personally like using the kill switch to shut down a bike because I have both my hands securely on the handlebars. Just lets me hold everything steady for the final shut down and setting the bike onto the kick stand.
Not that I can't simply use the switch or key (depends on the bike), and sometimes I do. Just that overall, Flicking the engine off with my thumb is preferable, to me.
I'll also tend to leave the bike parked with the kill switch off. In the vague hopes that it would give a thief or foolish person just a wee bit more difficulty.
Not that I can't simply use the switch or key (depends on the bike), and sometimes I do. Just that overall, Flicking the engine off with my thumb is preferable, to me.
I'll also tend to leave the bike parked with the kill switch off. In the vague hopes that it would give a thief or foolish person just a wee bit more difficulty.
Road Master
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 756
Likes: 2
From: Virginia
99% of time use ignition switch. I have that idle problem. I keep telling myself I'm going to use kill switch but just can get in the habit of doing it. Going for ride today with a guy I built a house for I'll try using the kill switch.
Road Captain
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 660
Likes: 27
From: Southern Illinois
I think one reason to use it is so you will remember you have one. If you never use it and it gets bumped off accidentally it could cause an embarrassing problem. Seen it happen, done it.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 6,129
Likes: 143
From: Santa Cruz
I only use it when I'm parking on a hill in gear and need both hands on the clutch and brake. I'm lazy and don't understand shutting it off twice??? Less key stokes with just the ignition.
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If you use the ignition switch first then the kill switch you won't accidentally leave your lights on and find a dead battery next morning. I usually shut the bike down using the ignition switch.
