Brake Light

[newhampshire]

Just noticed that when I use either brake the tail light remains the same. Shouldn't it change to a brighter red to indicate braking.

-NH

[the_sandman_454]

Yes, the taillight should get brighter when you hit either the front or rear brake.

Did it just start doing this? You might check for a burnt out filament in the brakes if it has an incandescent bulb. I think that's where I'd start looking at least, especially if this just started happening.

[jstark47]

Yes, it should get brighter when you're on the brakes.

[Shorts]

While I'd say it'd be odd if both brake light switches went out at the same time, it's possible. First off check the leads to the brake light bulb and make sure connections are good. As sandman pointed out, the bulb filament as well.

[slimcolo]

Many older bikes do not have a front brake light. The newest bike I have without a front brake light is an 82. Oldest bike I have with one is a 71. However both are completely stock and both are Hondas. On my old Harley I have an added rear brake light, even though it is legal without any brake light!

[Lion_Lady]

Just noticed that when I use either brake the tail light remains the same. Shouldn't it change to a brighter red to indicate braking.

-NH

I'd take the bike somewhere to just get a basic safety inspection (in MD it is required before you can get tags on a newly purchased vehicle), to make sure that everything is in good working order. It may be that there is a short or simply a loose wire. Another possibility is that the brake light bulb is simply burnt out... maybe try replacing that first.

P

[olebiker]

Change the bulb.

[newhampshire]

I replaced the bulb but it still doesn't work. I have to think it is a loose wire going into the tail light because neither the pedal or handle bar brake works.

[Shorts]

You know, your switch could be busted and the brake light is actually on. I had this little error when I was doing my control switch over. Unless the switch is in good order, it can remain closed and the brake light stays on.

Pull your switches, shouldn't take long at all to check the front brake.


Just switch, not a big deal.

[newhampshire]

After taking apart the tail light and checking al the wiring I figured out the problem and it didn't have anything to do with the wiring, bulb, or switch.

I adjusted the height of the break pedal a few days ago. The new height caused the spring controlled brake light switch to be in the on position whether the brake pedal was depressed or not. There is a threaded plastic piece above the switch that I rotated towards the front of the bike .The adjustment allows the brake light / tail light to function properly again. Thanks for all of your responses.