Light Bulbs & LEDs
About Light Bulbs & LEDs
Every lamp on a motorcycle uses a bulb with a type number, and that number tells you the base and the filament layout, which are the two things that must match. Riders shop here when a headlight, brake light or signal goes out, or when they want to move from halogen to LED or add color.
The listings use standard designations. Signal and brake bulbs carry numbers such as 1156 and 1157, headlight bulbs carry numbers such as H4, H11, H13 and 9005, and you will also see globe, miniature and MR16 styles. The H4 type has two filaments for high and low beam in one bulb, and an 1157 has two filaments for tail and brake.
Halogen bulbs are the plain replacement and work with the stock wiring. LED bulbs use less current and often last longer, but they behave differently in a housing built for halogen, and in turn signals they usually need a compatible flasher. Colored and RGB kits are for accent use. Keep to the wattage the socket and wiring were designed for.
Brands here include PATHFINDER, CIRO, Drag Specialties, Parts Unlimited and Custom Dynamics. If the bulb is fine and the light still fails, the problem may be a socket or connector in Sockets, Connectors & Wiring. For the housings themselves, see Headlight Assemblies, Tail & Brake Light Assemblies and Turn Signal Light Assemblies, all part of Lighting & Lamps.
FAQs on motorcycle light bulbs and LEDs
How do I find the right bulb number for my motorcycle?
Check the owner's manual, which lists the bulb type for each lamp. You can also read the number stamped on the base or glass of the old bulb. If the manual and the old bulb disagree, trust the manual and compare the base shape before you order.
Can I put an LED bulb in a halogen headlight housing?
Sometimes, but the housing was designed around a halogen filament. An LED that does not place its light source in the same spot can scatter light and dazzle other riders. Choose a bulb made for your bulb type, check the beam aim afterward, and follow local rules.
What is the difference between a single-filament and a dual-filament bulb?
A single-filament bulb has one light source and does one job, such as a turn signal. A dual-filament bulb has two, for example tail and brake in one bulb. They can look alike but have different bases, so match the exact bulb number.
Should I touch a new halogen bulb with my fingers?
No. Skin oil on the glass can create hot spots that shorten the life of a halogen bulb or crack it. Hold the bulb by its base or use a clean cloth, and wipe off any fingerprints with alcohol before you fit it.
Can I choose any color for my motorcycle bulbs?
Not for the lamps that signal other drivers. Turn signals, brake lights and headlights have color expectations, usually amber, red and white, and many places regulate them. Save colored and RGB bulbs for accent lighting and check your local rules.
