Tail & Brake Light Assemblies
About Tail & Brake Light Assemblies
The rear light tells the driver behind you that you are there, that you are slowing and, on many bikes, which way you are turning. Riders shop here to replace a cracked or dead taillight, to fit an LED unit, or to add a center brake light or small filler lights.
Start by working out which function you need. A complete taillight assembly houses the rear lamp and brake lamp, and some also include the turn signals and plate light. A listing marked run/brake/turn combines the steady tail light, the brighter brake light and the flashing signal in one unit. Auxiliary and filler lights add to an existing setup, center brake lights add a third lamp, and a brake light flasher module makes the lamp pulse when you brake.
LED units use less current, but if signals are part of the unit the flasher may need to be LED-compatible. Replacement circuit boards are listed for some taillight bases, which saves replacing the whole housing. Rear lights are normally red, so check local rules before changing lens color or using a flasher.
Brands here include PATHFINDER, HardDrive, CIRO, Drag Specialties and Custom Dynamics. Pick your bike in the Ride Finder at the top of the page. Related parts are in License Plate Light Assemblies, Turn Signal Light Assemblies, Lenses and Light Bulbs & LEDs, all in Lighting & Lamps.
FAQs on motorcycle taillights and brake lights
Why does my tail light work but my brake light does not?
Many rear bulbs have two filaments, one for the tail light and one for braking, and the brake filament can fail on its own. The brake light switches at the lever and pedal, the wiring and the fuse can also be at fault, so check these before you replace the housing.
What does run, brake and turn mean on a taillight listing?
Run is the steady tail light, brake is the brighter light when you brake, and turn is the flashing signal. A run/brake/turn unit combines all three in one housing, so its wiring has to match your bike. Compare the plug and the number of wires.
Can I replace a stock taillight with an LED unit?
Yes, if it is made for your model or has matching connections. LEDs use less current than bulbs, and where turn signals are built into the unit, a standard flasher may flash too fast. Read the listing for flasher or load resistor notes.
What does a brake light flasher do?
A brake light flasher module makes the brake light pulse for a short time when you brake, then hold steady, to catch the attention of drivers behind. Rules on flashing lights vary, so check your local requirements before fitting one.
Can I replace just the lens or circuit board on my taillight?
Sometimes. If only the lens is cracked, a replacement lens may be enough, but water that got in can damage the bulb holder or circuit board. Check the inside, and if the board is damaged look for a replacement board for your taillight base.
