I'm Pissed Off

[cosborn]

As above. I visited my Honda dealer yesterday to figure out the cost of a set of fog/day time lights would cost, the simple answer was $980.00., before fitting of course. I have a feeling that this is a tad too much.

I'm still looking at day time driving/fog lights for the beast, is anyone able to point me in the direction of a good reliable set that doesn't require me to take out a second mortgage on the house?

From what I've read the OEM lights are not that reliable, I kinda like the rectangular ones but I'm yet to be convinced!!!!!!!!

Cheers and thanks

Chris

Yep it's ok for you guys, we are just coming in to our winter and my Bees in the back yard are not happy.

Keep the rubber side down
:039::039::039::039::039::039::039::039:

[jm21ddd15]

:shock: That sounds way too high!. However, I do not know the money exchange rate of your country and ours. I have seen those lights listed by our "preferred Venders" at a much better U.S. price than that. Check them out. :yes:

[srt8-in-largo]

$380 USD... much more light... better quality... and you get the satisfaction and fun of mounting them yourself :icon_biggrin:

http://www.rigidindustries.com/led-lighting/50231

[Navvet]

I know I will probably get a lot of grief from some folks here, but I cannot see paying the kind of money most places want for LED fog lights. I installed 18w Cree Led Work (Spot) Light for boats from amazon, $29.00 for the pair. They are waterproof and put out a ton of light, mainly in the "center spot" with a bit of extra splash all around. I live in the country and ride into work @ 5am each day. They light up the road at night great (especially the sides of the road) while not blinding other drivers.

3002


A couple of the 2 wire plug connectors from Cyclemax to connect to the factory harness and a waterproof SPST switch and the job is done for less than $50.

Just my 2 cents worth .....

[stroguy]

Please Navy shows us some detailed pics.....no grief here. Ingenuity.

[Navvet]

It was no big deal, reinforced the cowling a bit and mounted the lights directly to it. The wiring is all there, just add a waterproof switch and connect it all up.

3003
3004
3005

Sorry for the poor quality of the pics, haven't figured out how to take better ones with this phone yet ....

[okf6b]

I put on the EC 1218 Series Cowl Light Kit (http://-------------------------/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=58). The lights are incredibly bright and very light weight so they don't stress the cowl at all. I like the bottom mount design so the screws are barely visible. EC puts out some quality products and this has been no exception.

[Bryster]

As above. I visited my Honda dealer yesterday to figure out the cost of a set of fog/day time lights would cost, the simple answer was $980.00., before fitting of course. I have a feeling that this is a tad too much.

I'm still looking at day time driving/fog lights for the beast, is anyone able to point me in the direction of a good reliable set that doesn't require me to take out a second mortgage on the house?

From what I've read the OEM lights are not that reliable, I kinda like the rectangular ones but I'm yet to be convinced!!!!!!!!

Cheers and thanks

Chris

Yep it's ok for you guys, we are just coming in to our winter and my Bees in the back yard are not happy.

Keep the rubber side down
:039::039::039::039::039::039::039::039:


That would be because we're in Oz, and they seem to put huge percentages on everything over here. When I was doing up a Fireblade getting the OEM parts out of Ronnies mail order in the states vs OEM here was damn amazing! 1 coolant hose here, $112AUD vs $40AUD from the US, I factored in the freight, as long as I ordered more than one thing it was cheaper than buying locally. And not just a little bit, fairing bolts, $5-12 here, $1-$3 there.... Just plain WOW... :shock:


I like to support the locals but I got so sick of "We're waiting on it" line being trotted out, hell Ronnies had stuff to my door in a week.. I can't get stuff out of Melbourne in a week..

Lookit this...

http://wingstuff.com/shop/gold_wing_gl1800-driving_lights
http://www.socalmotogear.com/HONDA-GL1800-LED-FOG-LIGHT-KIT-W-MOUNT-HARDWARE-p/gl18fg.htm
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/like/150772576768?limghlpsr=true&hlpv=2&ops=true&viphx=1&hlpht=true&lpid=107&chn=ps

*steps away from soapbox, can feel a rant coming on* :icon_doh:

[stroguy]

Thanks Navy. Looks good. It adds to visibility and safety.

[flat6bagger]

Navvet,
are yours the 4" lights?

[stroguy]

Appears to be the 6 lamp from the first pic. They are good pics but I would like to see even better detail. I like it.

Edit.....think these are them. http://www.ebay.com/itm/2x-18W-4-Cree-LED-Work-Light-Bar-Spot-Beam-Offroad-4WD-UTE-SUV-Fog-Driving-Lamp-/121236917566

[Navvet]

Appears to be the 6 lamp from the first pic. They are good pics but I would like to see even better detail. I like it.

Edit.....think these are them. http://www.ebay.com/itm/2x-18W-4-Cree-LED-Work-Light-Bar-Spot-Beam-Offroad-4WD-UTE-SUV-Fog-Driving-Lamp-/121236917566

You got it Stroguy, those are the right ones. I went with them because the are for marine use and I ride in all kinds of weather .......

[DaWadd]

That price is insane. I've not heard of any issues with the OEM Honda LED lights. Mine have worked flawlessly.

[Bryster]

I picked mine up at the end of last month, when I did, I inquired about the back rest. It was going to cost me a shade under $900AUD supplied and they'd fit for free.
I could get online for $500AUD, on eBay, delivered from the States... so yes, I believe that would be the figure.

[Spanky]

You guys down under are getting screwed. I guess the trade off is a riding christmas season! I purchased the 960's for my bike and the wife got hers for around $350 using the bonus bucks promo.

The work around Navy found looks great! the more light you can throw at the road, the better!

Keep finding creative workarounds! no Flames here!

[srt8-in-largo]

Any Economists in here? Is this a fallout of 6 years of quantitative easing and weakening the US dollar?

[srt8-in-largo]

I know I will probably get a lot of grief from some folks here, but I cannot see paying the kind of money most places want for LED fog lights. I installed 18w Cree Led Work (Spot) Light for boats from amazon, $29.00 for the pair. They are waterproof and put out a ton of light, mainly in the "center spot" with a bit of extra splash all around. I live in the country and ride into work @ 5am each day. They light up the road at night great (especially the sides of the road) while not blinding other drivers.

13880


A couple of the 2 wire plug connectors from Cyclemax to connect to the factory harness and a waterproof SPST switch and the job is done for less than $50.

Just my 2 cents worth .....

Grief...? I wouldn't call it that, but have you never been burned buying the cheap stuff only having to replace it in a short while? I have.

Lights and tires will never save me a dime; I'll go with the known and established quantity even if it costs more :icon_biggrin:

However... since these are not your main driving lights... and since sometimes the quality of the cheap stuff is actually good, I can't fault ya for giving these a shot!

[cosborn]

Many thanks for all the great info, i've decided to go with the Socal moto gear Cowl Fog / Driving lights at $455 Au delivered ($350 US inc $80 US freight), damn site cheaper than i can pick them up here.

I decided on these simply because they fit where they are supposed to and come with all the mounting gear. I'll keep you informed as to my decision being the correct one or not.

Cheers and best

Chris

http://www.socalmotogear.com/HONDA-GL1800-LED-FOG-LIGHT-KIT-W-MOUNT-HARDWARE-p/gl18fg.htm


:039::039:

[Hornblower]

From the brief review of the ad for these lights, several concerns immediately arise. First, they claim 0.4 amps draw per fog light. Even at a running voltage of 14 volts, that equates to only 5.6 watts, NOT the 10 watts they claim. Second, they will be lucky to get 100 lumens per watt so the total lumen output per fog light is more like 560 lumens, NOT the 800 lumens they claim. I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm getting pretty sick and tired of all the false and misleading advertising I'm seeing these days :banghead:.

[Navvet]

Grief...? I wouldn't call it that, but have you never been burned buying the cheap stuff only having to replace it in a short while? I have.

Lights and tires will never save me a dime; I'll go with the known and established quantity even if it costs more :icon_biggrin:

However... since these are not your main driving lights... and since sometimes the quality of the cheap stuff is actually good, I can't fault ya for giving these a shot!

I understand what you are saying Str8 .... I have also been burned also by cheap quality. I am a retired USN Electronics Tech and am in the RTP, NC area (the location of Cree) and I have personal knowledge as to the durability of these "marine grade" lights (use them on a friends boat) and feel very confident in them.

I am not recommending them for anyone else's use, just saying what I am using. I have put 8,000 miles on my bike in the last 10 months in all kinds of weather and they have helped me see the road, but more importantly, be seen .....

Of course, saving on them also lets me enjoy more :cheers:

[ths61]

You got it Stroguy, those are the right ones. I went with them because the are for marine use and I ride in all kinds of weather .......

NavVet,

Did you consider these 2x30 set with projector lenses? They look to be the same size with longer distance output.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/2-30W-6X5W-osram-Led-work-light-Bar-Spot-Beam-Offroad-Driving-Lamp-JEEP-ATV-SUV-/121508225457?tfrom=121236917566&tpos=top&ttype=coupon&talgo=undefined

13906

13912

[srt8-in-largo]

...

I'll keep you informed as to my decision being the correct one or not.

...



'popcorn and coke'



From the brief review of the ad for these lights, several concerns immediately arise. First, they claim 0.4 amps draw per fog light. Even at a running voltage of 14 volts, that equates to only 5.6 watts, NOT the 10 watts they claim. Second, they will be lucky to get 100 lumens per watt so the total lumen output per fog light is more like 560 lumens, NOT the 800 lumens they claim. I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm getting pretty sick and tired of all the false and misleading advertising I'm seeing these days :banghead:.

I hear ya Ken... but is the problem one of advertising maximum ratings that are different from typical usage? Would 10W and 800 lumens be the max rating on the LED's... and then 5.6W and 560 lumens be more of a typical usage?



I understand what you are saying Str8 .... I have also been burned also by cheap quality. I am a retired USN Electronics Tech and am in the RTP, NC area (the location of Cree) and I have personal knowledge as to the durability of these "marine grade" lights (use them on a friends boat) and feel very confident in them.

I am not recommending them for anyone else's use, just saying what I am using. I have put 8,000 miles on my bike in the last 10 months in all kinds of weather and they have helped me see the road, but more importantly, be seen .....

Of course, saving on them also lets me enjoy more :cheers:

If they work good for you, then by all means, recommend them from the mountain top :icon_biggrin:




NavVet,

Did you consider these 2x30 set with projector lenses? They look to be the same size with longer distance output.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/2-30W-6X5W-osram-Led-work-light-Bar-Spot-Beam-Offroad-Driving-Lamp-JEEP-ATV-SUV-/121508225457?tfrom=121236917566&tpos=top&ttype=coupon&talgo=undefined

13906

Any bets on how long until we see LED lights with adjustable beam patterns?

Driving lights made for distance typically have narrow beams, which doesn't pickup roadside critters as well as flood beams... but flood beams don't lightup as far down the road.

Someone posted a brilliant idea that I may end up trying; putting a long distance spotlight on one side and a wide pattern floodlight on the other. Would this give you the best pf both worlds, or result in lackluster performance on both fronts?

:shrug:

[ths61]

...

Any bets on how long until we see LED lights with adjustable beam patterns?

Driving lights made for distance typically have narrow beams, which doesn't pickup roadside critters as well as flood beams... but flood beams don't lightup as far down the road.

Someone posted a brilliant idea that I may end up trying; putting a long distance spotlight on one side and a wide pattern floodlight on the other. Would this give you the best pf both worlds, or result in lackluster performance on both fronts?

:shrug:

I have read about that configuration on off-road bikes (1 spot + 1 flood), but have never tried it myself.

I was thinking the same thing with these 2 sets, they are cheap enough, both have 6 LEDs, about the same size, but their color and mounting brackets are slightly different.

[Navvet]

NavVet,

Did you consider these 2x30 set with projector lenses? They look to be the same size with longer distance output.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/2-30W-6X5W-osram-Led-work-light-Bar-Spot-Beam-Offroad-Driving-Lamp-JEEP-ATV-SUV-/121508225457?tfrom=121236917566&tpos=top&ttype=coupon&talgo=undefined

13906

13912

Did not see those when I installed mine last year, they look interesting .....



'popcorn and coke'


If they work good for you, then by all means, recommend them from the mountain top :icon_biggrin:


:

Does that mean our buying the first round next time I'm down there ?????

[srt8-in-largo]

...

Does that mean our buying the first round next time I'm down there ?????

Yup... we'll be two F6's at the Harley bar :icon_biggrin:

[flat6bagger]

You got it Stroguy, those are the right ones. I went with them because the are for marine use and I ride in all kinds of weather .......
Other than the connectors,do you have to do anything else so as not to damage the electrical system?
I know nothing about how LEDs work with the F6B wiring.Could someone post a link or number for the exact connectors and the switch?
I would like to add these to my bike.

[stroguy]

The LED is just like any other lamp, just typically a lower current draw than an incandescent bulb. But these CREE LEDs can draw some juice. A relay is always a recommended form of wiring any new electrical device on your bike or auto. I believe most adding the driving lamps are using the prewired connector that is used on the full bore Goldwing which I am assuming is relay protected. I am looking for the link on wiring driving lights onto the F6B.

Edit....here is a great basic relay drawing for adding any electrical device to a system utilizing a relay.
Just substitute your add on in place of the lamps here. Adjust fusing and wire colors to suit your needs.


http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c6/stroguy/image.jpg1_zpsv2as3gex.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/stroguy/media/image.jpg1_zpsv2as3gex.jpg.html)

[flat6bagger]

Thanks Stroguy.
I was wondering about the need for a relay as I heard horror stories pertaining to guys installing CREE lighting on an UTV and burning up wiring harnesses.

[stroguy]

Proper planning doesn't take long and precautions with relays is always advisable. These CREE off-road lamps when ganged can draw major amperage. Here is another good tool you should apply when planning. I never plan on going over 33% below maximum current rating for a wire before upping to the next larger AWG, which going down in AWG goes up in physical wire size.

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c6/stroguy/image.jpg1_zpsfqrfrxow.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/stroguy/media/image.jpg1_zpsfqrfrxow.jpg.html)

[stroguy]

Take a look at this puppy.

http://www.rigidindustries.com/led-lighting/92161em

If you ain't not planning on a nearly doubled current draw of 15 amps you are asking for burnt wiring. These lamps are awesome but plan ahead.

[flat6bagger]

Ok now I am totally confused.
All I want is to know exactly what connectors,switch and relay if needed.
Your killing me with too much information.:icon_lol:

[stroguy]

It's my day off, I have too much energy.......sorry lol. I'm still searching the connector. Go get another cup of coffee.

[Navvet]

Ok now I am totally confused.
All I want is to know exactly what connectors,switch and relay if needed.
Your killing me with too much information.:icon_lol:

The connectors I used are http://cyclemax.com/inc/sdetail/2_wire_plug_connectors/36020

I use this switch from Amazon, just a basic lighted SPST waterproof switch ...
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007Z7OKVG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[ths61]

The connectors I used are http://cyclemax.com/inc/sdetail/2_wire_plug_connectors/36020

I use this switch from Amazon, just a basic lighted SPST waterproof switch ...
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007Z7OKVG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Do those connectors match the OEM fog light connectors (i.e. use OEM harness), or did you run separate lines and use both the male and female portions of the cyclemax connectors ?

[Navvet]

Do those connectors match the OEM fog light connectors (i.e. use OEM harness), or did you run separate lines and use both the male and female portions of the cyclemax connectors ?

They matched the factory connectors.

[nox]

As above. I visited my Honda dealer yesterday to figure out the cost of a set of fog/day time lights would cost, the simple answer was $980.00., before fitting of course. I have a feeling that this is a tad too much.

I'm still looking at day time driving/fog lights for the beast, is anyone able to point me in the direction of a good reliable set that doesn't require me to take out a second mortgage on the house?

From what I've read the OEM lights are not that reliable, I kinda like the rectangular ones but I'm yet to be convinced!!!!!!!!

Cheers and thanks

Chris

Yep it's ok for you guys, we are just coming in to our winter and my Bees in the back yard are not happy.

Keep the rubber side down
:039::039::039::039::039::039::039::039:

Hi Cosborn

I was going to fit lights to mine as well then changed my mind when I discovered the Aussie version F6B does not have the wiring harness built into the bike like the US version does.
You either run your own wiring or purchase an additional section of harness from Honda.

Ripped off twice, bloody Honda.

[cosborn]

Cheers nox, looks like i'll have a bit of extra work to do, I'll let you know how i go.

I do think a relay is a good idea though

Chris

[ths61]

They matched the factory connectors.

GREAT !!!

[stroguy]

They matched the factory connectors.

Chaching....way to go Navy.

[Mufassa001]

I purchased the OEM lights Honda offers, lights work terrific, paid $500 installed.

[srt8-in-largo]

The connectors I used are http://cyclemax.com/inc/sdetail/2_wire_plug_connectors/36020

...



No voltage or current rating... perform your due diligence guys and make sure these can handle the power draw of your lights.

Since CycleMax gives no ratings, I'd assume these are for low power circuits (i.e. NOT for lights) until shown otherwise.

Navvet, you've been using these in high power circuits and no fires or hot connectors?

[stroguy]

I ordered a set this evening and will research them when they arrive and advise. Look like they may be Molex brand and probably are sufficient for most installs. But i will do due diligence and report when they come in.

[Navvet]

No voltage or current rating... perform your due diligence guys and make sure these can handle the power draw of your lights.

Since CycleMax gives no ratings, I'd assume these are for low power circuits (i.e. NOT for lights) until shown otherwise.

Navvet, you've been using these in high power circuits and no fires or hot connectors?

Str8 - I am sorry I didn't fully explain the "due diligence" involved in this install.

While cyclemax does not give the rating for these connectors, they are a standard molex type connector, fully capable of handling 5 amps.

The switch is rated to 16 amps.

The lights are rated at 18W power consumption.

According to my fuzzy memories of basic electronics theory (Ohms Law) 18W @ 12V = 1.5A (each) or 3A total for the circuit ........

So ... everything I have talked about should be well within specs.

I do apologize for sounding incompetent in my postings, but let me assure you, I have 40 years of experience wiring any and everything from low voltage electronics to 250kw radar systems and have never had a fire or hot connector ..... I tend to error on the side of caution.

So when are we having that beer ????? :cheers:

Also Stroguy, you might want to order the 3 and 4 pin connectors too. I don't remember offhand what the connector up at the top end and the power connector were.

[srt8-in-largo]

I ordered a set this evening and will research them when they arrive and advise. Look like they may be Molex brand and probably are sufficient for most installs. But i will do due diligence and report when they come in.

Good call on the Molex!



Str8 - I am sorry I didn't fully explain the "due diligence" involved in this install.

While cyclemax does not give the rating for these connectors, they are a standard molex type connector, fully capable of handling 5 amps.

The switch is rated to 16 amps.

The lights are rated at 18W power consumption.

According to my fuzzy memories of basic electronics theory (Ohms Law) 18W @ 12V = 1.5A (each) or 3A total for the circuit ........

So ... everything I have talked about should be well within specs.

I do apologize for sounding incompetent in my postings, but let me assure you, I have 40 years of experience wiring any and everything from low voltage electronics to 250kw radar systems and have never had a fire or hot connector ..... I tend to error on the side of caution.

So when are we having that beer ????? :cheers:

Also Stroguy, you might want to order the 3 and 4 pin connectors too. I don't remember offhand what the connector up at the top end and the power connector were.

Thanks for the info! Send me a PM when you're in the area; hopefully I'll have my bike back from the dealer soon.

[ths61]

FWIW, Amazon.com appears to have these lights as well in either spot (30°) or flood (60°) and their prices are less than what is on FleaBay. If you get a set of each, you could do the (1 spot + 1 flood) thing and have a spare set.

18 watt CREE Work Lights on Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/KAWELL%C2%AE-2-Pack-Flood-Degree-Worklamp/dp/B00IXDN0Y4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1431565599&sr=8-1&keywords=KAWELL+CREE+LED+WORK+LIGHT)

I have found these packages under at least 4 brand names so far.

HTH

13930

[stroguy]

Very nice Navy. I didn't think you sounded incompetent nor did I think SRT8 was heading that way at all. Think it appeared that this post was morphing into a mod for others to install other style lamps. And since the lamps can vary in style, wattage and voltage we were precautioning folks to plan ahead. Your fuzzy memory was good. PIE.

George...like to see your car. Were you a member over at lxforums?

[Navvet]

Very nice Navy. I didn't think you sounded incompetent nor did I think SRT8 was heading that way at all. Think it appeared that this post was morphing into a mod for others to install other style lamps. And since the lamps can vary in style, wattage and voltage we were precautioning folks to plan ahead. Your fuzzy memory was good. PIE.

George...like to see your car. Were you a member over at lxforums?

That's OK Stroguy, no insult taken from anybody. Just wanted to make sure Str8 did not think I was some hack trying to burn out my wiring.

As I said earlier "I am not recommending them for anyone else's use, just saying what I am using."

Been burned too many times by other people's hacks and errors so I never make direct recommendations.

[srt8-in-largo]

Very nice Navy. I didn't think you sounded incompetent nor did I think SRT8 was heading that way at all. Think it appeared that this post was morphing into a mod for others to install other style lamps. And since the lamps can vary in style, wattage and voltage we were precautioning folks to plan ahead. Your fuzzy memory was good. PIE.

George...like to see your car. Were you a member over at lxforums?

Hey Stro, yes, LXforums has been incredibly beneficial to me over the years. I got all my high performance goodies from the guys there. And the only guys who'd Id ever let touch my car or tune it I met there :yes: How are you familiar with that site?

I don't have a ton of pictures but here's my other baby :banana: One of these days I oughtta get the underhood cleaned and polished to show off my stress reliever, a 2.8L Kenne Bell sitting on top. The blower is intercooled but I wanted additional cooling capacity so I assembled a stand alone oil cooler which helps to keep temperatures under control; the KB runs pretty hot.

This 4-door, 4500lb, grocery getter and family hauler does ok. I'm seeing 500 hp\tq at the wheels or about 600 at the crank. She'll cut a 1/4 mile in the high 11's and trap about 115 mph. I'm currently running 8psi of boost on a stock engine; when this one blows or wears out I think I'll get a little crazy with it. I'll put a fully forged engine in it and crank the boost until I'm just under 1,000 hp

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MH7_98gonJ0/U3eqoezOKYI/AAAAAAAAB0g/XElf3YvUAJo/s800/tires_275-40_295-40.JPG

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DoCEoOIGF18/Ukc26drBH0I/AAAAAAAABSY/mR_XLD1CBoM/s800/DSC00409.JPG

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cwC9QzE1etw/UppoGKK0ctI/AAAAAAAABlE/U9WqoBQ7ZNU/s800/1124131142.jpg

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kqFCCRlt_n4/UomTSJMXK2I/AAAAAAAABhY/xe4xIoZpucs/s800/DSC00498.JPG

[srt8-in-largo]

That's OK Stroguy, no insult taken from anybody. Just wanted to make sure Str8 did not think I was some hack trying to burn out my wiring.

As I said earlier "I am not recommending them for anyone else's use, just saying what I am using."

Been burned too many times by other people's hacks and errors so I never make direct recommendations.

All good Nav; I wasn't implying anything, just commenting that I didn't see ratings :yes:

[stroguy]

I joined over there back in 06 I believe. By far lxforums and sclx were the best run forums and clubs I have ever been around. LX platform came a long way from a lot of folks inputs there. One of the biggest successes was Billet Technolgy. A side business that blew up like a nuclear bomb because of lxforums and sclx.

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c6/stroguy/StrykerCharger.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/stroguy/media/StrykerCharger.jpg.html)

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c6/stroguy/strofin1_zpsvrdxowcp.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/stroguy/media/strofin1_zpsvrdxowcp.jpg.html)

[srt8-in-largo]

Great minds think alike :icon_biggrin:

[stroguy]

Think we are hijacking. We apologize OP.