[BookWorm]

I noticed last night that I really can't see much in the dark with my full beam
It doesn't really light up the road, mosty the hedges and ditches, which isn't the best!
When the full light is on the dipped beam goes off, is that supposed to happen?
I tried putting the dipped beam on and held in the "pass" light switch thing, and I could see a lot better because both lights were on.
If it's normal for the dipped beam to be off when the full is on, is there a way to make the dim stay on all the time? I feel like I can't see anything at night and don't feel too safe driving!

This post has been edited by BookWorm: 20 January 2012 - 03:08 PM

[CBR 46]

You could try upgrading your bulb to a brighter one and make sure your headlight lens is spotlessly clean before you go messing with wiring to make the dipped and full beam stay on at the same time.

I carry a rag with me and clean the headlight, rear and indicator lenses most days. It could also be that the headlight aim isn't the best and needs to be moved up or down.

For example a heavy person would cause more sag in the rear of the bike causing the headlight to aim up.

Adding a pillion passenger has the same effect.

[Kelpie]

Abi, if you can get hold of the Osram Nightbreaker bulbs, they make a huge difference. If you can't source them locally, try ebay.

[proinnsias]

Sounds like you have a H4 headlight bulb. It has two filaments - keeping both lit would burn it out fairly quick

I'd go with the Osrams - well worth it

[zOU]

hello,

i hace the same on my tenere, the dipped beam goes off when full beam is on.

simple rewiring do the trick and keep both lights on.

be carefull, it puts additionnal strain on the wires.

I've added LED lights so I wouldn't have to re-wore the original lights

[The Mex]

The reason the dipped beam goes off when the full beam comes on is this:

Your dipped beam is a 55w bulb, so too is your main beam....
If both were to run together it would be a major draw on battery/alternator power.

All fine if your electrical system is designed to take it... but it usually isn't.


I reckon you need to have your light checked for focus as I'd guess it's too high....

As a general rule, your dipped beam should be below the rear window of a car in front at what would be " a safe distance" behind (2 car lengths)

If it's too high, your main beam could be aimed at the tops of trees and hence useless.

[BookWorm]

Thanks everyone
I'll get my dad to look at adjusting the position first (everything would fall off if I went messing with it), and if that makes no difference I'll go looking for the Osram bulbs!
In fact I might get those anyway if they're better!

[Kelpie]

Make sure it's the Osram nightbreakers... they do all kinds of bulbs but those are the ones you need.

[BookWorm]

Kelpie, on 21 January 2012 - 10:46 AM, said:

Make sure it's the Osram nightbreakers... they do all kinds of bulbs but those are the ones you need.

Will do Thanks!

[Hatcho]

Philips Xtreme Vision are another option - both those and the Osram Nightbreakers did very well in a test in Ride magazine. Either way, you'l be impressed by the improvement the upgrade makes. Another option is to add a set of running lights - not a cheap option but a set of extra spots running alongside you high beams will definitely improve things.

[evoblade]

Make sure the bulb is being retained properly,like Mex said don't wire it to run both filiments,you'll burn out your switchgear and possibly even the bike.Don't run a higher rated bulb either it will cause similar issues.Those headlight bowls get alot a dirt in them too,a good clean out works wonders....should be pretty good light from it

[corkdragon]

hi abi
I recently bought some osram nightbreakers (yet to fit mind!) but i know someone who has fitted to a super four and it's meant to be fantastic. I'll pm you a link to a site that has them on offer.