Turn Signal Light Assemblies
About Turn Signal Light Assemblies
Turn signals show other drivers what you intend to do, and on a motorcycle they are exposed, so they are among the first parts to crack or snap off in a tip-over. Riders shop here to replace a broken signal, to switch to LED, to change the style, or to relocate the signals to a cleaner position.
Match four things. The first is the style: bullet signals, micro signals, inserts and complete units each fit different bikes. The second is the bulb or LED type; many Harley-style signals use an 1157 base, whose two filaments let a front signal glow steadily and flash. The third is the mounting size and wiring, since listings give details such as a 49 mm size and the number of wires.
The fourth is the lens: amber is the usual choice, and smoked or clear lenses are paired with amber light. A relocation harness, such as a 36 inch version, extends the wires when signals move. If you switch to LEDs, check whether the flasher needs to be LED-compatible. Auto-cancel modules and kits for particular models are listed here too.
Brands listed here include CIRO, Drag Specialties, Dakota Digital, Custom Dynamics and Arlen Ness. Pick your bike in the Ride Finder at the top of the page to see signals made for it. Bulbs are in Light Bulbs & LEDs, connectors in Sockets, Connectors & Wiring, replacement covers in Lenses, and rear lights in Tail & Brake Light Assemblies.
FAQs on motorcycle turn signals
Why do my turn signals blink too fast after switching to LED?
This is called hyper-flash. The flasher reads the low current of LEDs as a burnt-out bulb and speeds up. The fixes are an LED-compatible flasher or load resistors, whichever your model calls for. Check the signal listing and your manual before choosing.
Do all four turn signals have to match?
They should have the same electrical load. Mixing LED and bulb signals on a bike can change the flash rate or trigger the burnt-out warning. Replace in matching sets when you can, and read the product notes for flasher advice.
What does 1157 mean on a turn signal listing?
1157 is the bulb type, a two-filament bulb with an offset-pin base, used for lights that do two jobs. When a signal lists 1157, a replacement bulb has to be that type, and a similar-looking single-filament bulb will not work the same way.
How long should a turn signal relocation harness be?
Long enough that the front signal can reach its new mount with a little slack at full steering lock, and no longer than needed. Turn the bars lock to lock with the harness loosely routed before you secure it. Measure the path, not the straight distance.
What should I check if one turn signal does not flash?
Start with the bulb, the socket and the ground connection, since a bad ground is a common cause. Then check the plug and wiring. If the whole signal side is dead, check the flasher and fuse. Replace the unit only after these are ruled out.
