Electrical & Ignition Components
About Electrical & Ignition Components
A motorcycle's electrical system starts the engine, makes the spark, charges the battery and runs everything from the horn to the lights. Riders shop here when the bike will not start, when the battery keeps going flat, after an electrical failure, or to upgrade the ignition.
The system splits into a few jobs. For starting, there are Batteries, Starter Motors and Starter Motor Parts. For charging, there are Alternators & Generators, Alternator & Generator Parts, Stators & Magnetos, Stator & Magneto Parts and Voltage Regulators & Rectifiers.
The ignition side includes Spark Plugs, Ignition Coils, Ignition Wires, Caps & Boots, Ignition Kits, Distributor Parts and ECUs, CDIs & Computer Modules. Controls and protection are Electrical & Ignition Sensors & Switches, Relays, Fuses & Fuse Boxes, Horns & Horn Covers and Wiring Harnesses, Cables & Connectors. Items that do not fit elsewhere are in Other Electrical & Ignition Components.
Brands in this section include Colony, Drag Specialties, Accel, Custom Dynamics and Dynojet. Electrical parts are specific to the model and year, so pick your bike in the Ride Finder at the top of the page, and see why parts don't fit before you order.
FAQs on motorcycle electrical and ignition parts
Why won't my motorcycle start even though the lights come on?
Lights need very little current, while the starter needs a lot, so a weak battery can power the lights but not crank the engine. Check battery voltage and the terminals first, then the fuses, kill switch and starter circuit in your manual.
What is the difference between the charging system and the ignition system?
The charging system makes electricity and keeps the battery topped up, using the stator or alternator and the regulator. The ignition system uses that power to make the spark, with the coil, wires, plugs and a control unit.
How can I tell if the battery or the charging system has failed?
Measure battery voltage with a multimeter with the engine off, then with it running. If the voltage does not rise when the engine runs, the charging system is suspect. Your manual gives the voltage to expect.
Can I install electrical parts myself?
Many are bolt-on and manageable with basic tools. Disconnect the battery first, keep connectors clean and dry, and never replace a fuse with a larger one. Follow the manual, and ask a technician if you are unsure.
