Motorcycle Ignition Switches

Every rider knows that before starting a motorcycle they need to insert the key into the ignition switch and turn it into the On position. Most drivers do it automatically and pay almost no attention to the ignition switch until it fails or malfunctions, so the engine doesn’t start. However, the ignition switch deserves much more attention than it usually gets as it does a crucial job of feeding electricity to the start button and electric systems of a motorcycle. It is one of the most crucial electronic components of your bike that works every time you ride.

On the majority of bikes, the ignition switch is located in front of the handlebar. However, on some motorcycles, the ignition switch can be seen behind it, before the fuel tank. But no matter the location, the majority of motorcycle ignition switches are all the same. A typical ignition switch has three marks for the ignition key such as On/Off and Lock. As long as your bike is running, your key remains in the first position. In this position, your ignition circuit is completed, which makes it possible to start the motor and begin riding the motorcycle.

When the ignition key is turned into the Off position, most electrical circuits of your motorcycle, including the ignition circuit, are cut off, which means, your engine cannot start. In the Off mode, the key can be removed from the switch if you’re not planning to ride longer and are going to leave your bike. The last position on the ignition switch exists for security reasons. It allows you to lock the handlebar, so nobody can steal your bike when you leave it parked somewhere. Just like in the Off position, the key in the Lock one disconnects most electrical circuits of your motorcycle.

Motorcycle ignition switches operate similarly to the ones found in most cars and trucks, although, they are not the same. The main difference is that motorcycle ignition switches do not feature the Start position peculiar to most car switches and used to crank the engine. On a motorcycle, this job is performed by the start button of the start/stop switch rested on the right of the handlebar. It is usually located next to your throttle handle and is used to start the engine when your key is already in the On position, which means your ignition circuit is complete and all other electrical systems are powered.

When a rider wants to stop the engine, they need to turn the ignition key into the Off position. However, in case of emergency, for example, when falling down during riding, it can be difficult and inconvenient to reach the ignition switch. For such emergency situations, there is the engine stop button, also known as the “kill” or “dead man’s” button. As a rule, it is a red button that is also located on the start/stop switch. This button allows the rider to cut the ignition circuit quickly, while all other circuits in the motorcycle remain uncut.