Indicators

Indicators are the four amber lamps, two at the front and two at the back, that flash to show you are turning. Each has a lens, a bulb holder and a mount on a rubber or plastic stalk. They are switched from the left handlebar switch and timed by the flasher relay.

What it does

When you move the switch, the flasher sends pulses to the front and rear lamp on that side. Each bulb needs a good earth back to the frame. Stalks break in small falls, holders rust, and a broken bulb or earth on one side usually makes the other bulb on that side flash fast or stay on.

Signs it is worn or failing

• Indicators do not work.
• Indicators flash too fast: often one bulb blown.
• Indicators stay on and do not flash.
• Broken stalk or lens, water inside.

When to replace it

Replace the bulb if the filament is broken. Replace the whole indicator if the stalk, lens or holder is broken.

What to match when buying

• Match bulb type and wattage, for example R10W (12 V 10 W) on the K-Light. A different wattage changes the flash rate with a thermal flasher.
• LED indicators draw much less current; they need an LED-rated flasher or resistors: Fit LED indicators correctly.
• Look for an approval mark on the lens. Amber light is required in most countries.
• Match the mounting thread and stalk length.

Fitting notes

• Rider job: Replace a bulb.
• Clean the earth path in the holder, and seal the lens.
• If the fault is on both sides, test the flasher and switch: Test the indicator flasher relay.

Reference (K-Light 125)