Heated grips are a useful addition to any motorcycle, especially for those who ride in colder climates. They provide warmth to the hands and make riding in chilly weather comfortable. However, installing heated grips can be a bit tricky and requires a wiring diagram to ensure a safe and functional installation. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to wire heated grips to your motorcycle.
Tools and Materials Required
Before starting the installation process, you will need a few tools and materials:
| Tools | Materials |
|---|---|
| Screwdrivers | Heated grips kit |
| Wire cutters/strippers | Electrical tape |
| Heat gun or hair dryer | Soldering iron and solder |
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to wire your heated grips:
Step 1: Disconnect the Battery
Before doing any electrical work, it’s important to disconnect the battery to prevent any accidental electrical discharge. Locate the battery on your motorcycle and disconnect it by loosening the negative terminal first and then the positive terminal.
Step 2: Remove the Old Grips
If you have existing grips on your motorcycle, you’ll need to remove them. This can be done by spraying a little bit of hairspray or grip glue remover on the grips and sliding them off. If the grips are glued on, use a razor blade to cut them off.
Step 3: Install the Heated Grips
Follow the instructions provided with your heated grips kit to install the new grips. This typically involves sliding the grips onto the handlebars and securing them using screws or adhesive.
Step 4: Locate the Power Source
Next, you’ll need to locate the power source for the heated grips. Most motorcycles have a spare accessory plug that can be used as a power source. If your bike doesn’t have a spare plug, you’ll need to locate the positive and negative wires in the wiring harness.
Step 5: Connect the Wires
Connect the positive wire from the heated grips to the positive wire in the wiring harness and the negative wire from the grips to the negative wire in the harness. Use a soldering iron and solder to make a secure connection. Wrap the connection in electrical tape to ensure it doesn’t come apart.
Step 6: Test the Grips
Once the wires are connected, you can test the grips to make sure they’re working properly. Reconnect the battery and turn on the ignition. Switch on the grips and wait for a few minutes to feel the warmth.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about wiring heated grips:
Q: Can I use a different power source for my heated grips?
A: Yes, you can use any power source that provides 12V DC. However, using a power source that isn’t designed for the grips can damage the grips or cause a short circuit.
Q: Can I install heated grips on my own?
A: Yes, you can install heated grips on your own if you have some experience with electrical work. However, if you’re not confident in your skills, it’s best to have a professional install them for you.
Q: How do I know if my heated grips are working?
A: Once you’ve connected the wires and turned on the ignition, wait for a few minutes and touch the grips to see if they’re warm. You should be able to feel the warmth in your hands.
Q: Can I install heated grips on any type of motorcycle?
A: Yes, heated grips can be installed on any type of motorcycle as long as the grip size matches the handlebar size and there is a suitable power source available.
Q: Are heated grips safe to use?
A: Yes, heated grips are safe to use as long as they’re installed properly and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Follow these steps and you’ll be able to enjoy warm and comfortable rides even in chilly weather. Stay safe and ride on!
