The Ultimate Guide to Harley Davidson Street 500 Tail Brake Light: How It Works, Benefits, Cost, Price, Installation, Symptoms and More
Harley Davidson is a well-known and beloved brand in the motorcycle industry. Their motorcycles are known for their power, style, and performance. One important component of any motorcycle is the tail brake light. In this guide, we will be exploring the Harley Davidson Street 500 tail brake light and everything you need to know about it. From how it works to the benefits, cost, price, installation, symptoms, and more, we will cover it all in detail. Let's get started!
How It Works
The Harley Davidson Street 500 tail brake light is an essential safety feature on the motorcycle. It is responsible for letting other drivers know when the motorcycle is slowing down or coming to a stop. The tail brake light is usually located at the back of the motorcycle, above the rear wheel.
When the rider applies the brakes, the tail brake light illuminates, signaling to other drivers that the motorcycle is slowing down. The light also turns on when the motorcycle is in idle mode, indicating that the motorcycle is stationary. This helps prevent accidents and ensures the safety of the rider and other drivers on the road.
Benefits
There are several benefits to having a functioning tail brake light on your Harley Davidson Street 500. Let's explore some of the major ones:
Safety
The primary benefit of a tail brake light is safety. It helps other drivers on the road to be aware of your motorcycle's movements and prevents accidents. The bright red light is easily noticeable, even from a distance, making it an essential safety feature for any motorcycle.
Legal Requirement
In most states, it is a legal requirement to have a functioning tail brake light on your motorcycle. This is to ensure the safety of the rider and other drivers on the road. Not having a tail brake light can result in a fine or even a ticket.
Visibility
A tail brake light is designed to be highly visible, even in low light conditions. This makes it easier for other drivers to see your motorcycle, increasing your visibility on the road and reducing the chances of accidents.
Adds to the Aesthetics
The tail brake light is not just a safety feature but also adds to the overall aesthetics of the motorcycle. It is a small but crucial component that helps to enhance the overall look and style of your Harley Davidson Street 500.
Cost and Price
The cost and price of a tail brake light for your Harley Davidson Street 500 can vary depending on several factors. The brand, quality, and features of the tail brake light can all impact the cost. On average, a tail brake light can cost anywhere from $50 to $200.
It is important to note that while you may be able to find cheaper options, it is always recommended to invest in a high-quality tail brake light. This is a crucial safety feature, and compromising on quality can have serious consequences.
Installation
Installing a tail brake light on your Harley Davidson Street 500 is a straightforward process. However, if you are not familiar with motorcycle mechanics, it is always recommended to have a professional do the installation for you.
Here are the general steps for installing a tail brake light on your motorcycle:
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools
You will need a few tools to install the tail brake light, including a screwdriver, socket wrench, and pliers. Make sure you have all the necessary tools before starting the installation process.
Step 2: Remove the Old Tail Brake Light
If your motorcycle already has a tail brake light, you will need to remove it first. Use the screwdriver to remove the screws holding the light in place and gently pull it off the motorcycle.
Step 3: Install the New Tail Brake Light
Place the new tail brake light in the same position as the old one and use the screws to attach it to the motorcycle. Make sure it is securely in place.
Step 4: Connect the Wires
Connect the wires from the new tail brake light to the corresponding wires on your motorcycle. This may require some wiring knowledge, so if you are unsure, it is best to have a professional do this step for you.
Step 5: Test the Light
Once everything is connected, turn on your motorcycle and test the tail brake light. Make sure it is working correctly before hitting the road.
Symptoms of a Faulty Tail Brake Light
It is crucial to regularly check your tail brake light for any signs of damage or malfunction. Here are some common symptoms of a faulty tail brake light:
Light Not Turning On
If your tail brake light does not turn on when you apply the brakes or when the motorcycle is in idle mode, it could be a sign of a faulty light.
Dim or Flickering Light
If you notice that your tail brake light is dim or flickering, it could be a sign of a loose connection or a failing light bulb.
Light Stays On
If your tail brake light stays on even when you are not applying the brakes or when the motorcycle is not in idle mode, it could be a sign of a faulty switch or wiring.
Comparison with Other Brands
When it comes to choosing the best tail brake light for your Harley Davidson Street 500, there are several brands to choose from. Some of the most popular options include Kuryakyn, Custom Dynamics, and Harley Davidson's own tail brake light.
| Brand | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Kuryakyn | - LED light technology - Bright and highly visible - Easy installation |
$89.99 |
| Custom Dynamics | - LED light technology - Bright and highly visible - Multiple color options |
$149.95 |
| Harley Davidson | - Official Harley Davidson product - High-quality and durable - Designed specifically for Street 500 |
$199.99 |
As you can see, all three brands offer similar features, but there can be a significant price difference. It is essential to consider your budget and the features that are most important to you when choosing a tail brake light for your motorcycle.
Pros and Cons
Like any product, there are pros and cons to consider when it comes to the Harley Davidson Street 500 tail brake light. Let's take a look at some of the main ones:
Pros
- Essential safety feature
- Highly visible
- Adds to the aesthetics of the motorcycle
- Multiple brands and options to choose from
- Easy installation process
Cons
- Can be expensive
- May require professional installation
- Can malfunction or fail over time
Best Brands
As mentioned earlier, some of the best brands for tail brake lights for your Harley Davidson Street 500 include Kuryakyn, Custom Dynamics, and Harley Davidson's own tail brake light. Here's a quick overview of each brand and what they offer:
Kuryakyn
Kuryakyn is a well-known brand in the motorcycle industry, known for its high-quality products and innovative designs. Their tail brake lights are no exception, offering bright and highly visible LED lights for added safety on the road.
Custom Dynamics
Custom Dynamics is another popular brand among motorcycle enthusiasts, offering a range of LED tail brake lights in different colors to suit your style. Their lights are known for their durability and performance.
Harley Davidson
Harley Davidson's own tail brake light is designed specifically for the Street 500 model, making it a perfect fit for your motorcycle. It is a high-quality and durable option, although it may come at a higher price compared to other brands.