Kawasaki Concours Forum
The C-14, aka Kawasaki Concours-14, the new one :) => Accessories and modifications - C14/GTR 1400 => Topic started by: reesedp on May 18, 2011, 06:12:51 AM
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Anyone know where you can get some BRIGHTER city lights?
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Just do a google search for T10 led lights and you will find what you need. I got mine for free with my HID kit from A&R.
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i have been thinking about something like that as well. ill try A&R JD.
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I saw "bright lights" in Tampa and just had to shoot a pic. was a hit in photography class.
(http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j180/stevewfl/LR/20110421-DSC_0033.jpg)
on a more serious note, I suggest something along the lines of this review: http://www.webbikeworld.com/lights/hid-light/motorcycle-hid-light-conversion/ (http://www.webbikeworld.com/lights/hid-light/motorcycle-hid-light-conversion/)
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Thanks fellas.
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I just got a set from autiillumination myself, installed them yesterday. They were led 6k lights someone mentioned on old board. I like them as they have a bluish tint to them and set them apart from the mains
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I just got a set from autiillumination myself, installed them yesterday. They were led 6k lights someone mentioned on old board. I like them as they have a bluish tint to them and set them apart from the mains
Yep- that opens another variation on the topic of whether to keep the lights white or change them to yellow. Yellow would set it off a LOT more than the headlights...
Of course, an additional topic would be "What was the exact purpose/intent of the city lights in the first place?". I mean, at least in the USA, you must run with your headlights on at all times, so what purpose do these serve? Are they supposed to have a wider distribution of light than the low beams? Are they just supposed to be a marker light when the ignition is on but the engine is not running?
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Amber LED on EBAY
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=170586573938&viewitem=&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWNX%3AIT (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=170586573938&viewitem=&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWNX%3AIT)
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Just got some amber regular Sylvania bulbs to try, the Silverstars did look sweet though.
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I installed the Sylvania 194AN bulbs today, nice and bright with a nice amber contrast. I got these at Advance Auto in case anybody is interested.
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Just got some amber regular Sylvania bulbs to try, the Silverstars did look sweet though.
Why not go for LED? I am guessing you could get something much, much brighter (and with less draw)
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I installed the Sylvania 194AN bulbs today, nice and bright with a nice amber contrast. I got these at Advance Auto in case anybody is interested.
But LED would be so much sweeeeeter!
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Well...................better than what "was" in there, and I happen to see these and figured what the heck. Maybe I should take a pic of them, I am very pleased with both the results and the price I paid for them. ;)
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Just do a google search for T10 led lights and you will find what you need. I got mine for free with my HID kit from A&R.
Can you help me out with this? I must be HID illiterate...haha. Never messed with them before, but better visibility is always a good thing. A link or a parts list would be greatly appreciated.
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Can you help me out with this? I must be HID illiterate...haha. Never messed with them before, but better visibility is always a good thing. A link or a parts list would be greatly appreciated.
You want a 168 or a 194 "wedge type" bulb at 12/14 volts and around 5 watts.
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Can you help me out with this? I must be HID illiterate...haha. Never messed with them before, but better visibility is always a good thing. A link or a parts list would be greatly appreciated.
Just send Rob an email and he will get you a quote. I reccomend the digital ballasts and the dual hi/lo HID setup. There aren't actually two seperate bulbs, so it uses a some sort of magnet to lift the beam to run your highs. I have had two HID kits from A&R and have had great luck with them. Their customer service is also top notch.
http://www.aandrmotorsport.com/store/index.php (http://www.aandrmotorsport.com/store/index.php)
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let us know what you decided and post some pics when you get them in
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Why not go for LED? I am guessing you could get something much, much brighter (and with less draw)
OK, I was wrong. I got the yellow 194 bulbs ( http://autolumination.com/images/auto_bulbs/194_smt3_a_wm.jpg (http://autolumination.com/images/auto_bulbs/194_smt3_a_wm.jpg) ) from autoillumation (25 LEDs). Supposedly the "brightest LED 194 bulbs on the market". Installed them today. Disappointed. First, they are orange, not yellow. Second, they are about half the brightness of the incandescent bulbs. I measure them at 1.2watts per bulb. I need something much brighter to meet my goal.
HOWEVER- the *concept* of using yellow bulbs there is very sound, and I do like the contrast and what it means for safety. It turns the city lights from something useless into something useful.
Other thread: http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=810.0 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=810.0)
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I suppose I could check the service manual, but it's Sunday and I'm lazy.
How much of a PITA is it to access the bulbs? Ditto the headlights, as I'd like to go to HID?
Changing headlight bulbs on my last Honda ST1100 was a half-day job because of all the pieces needing removal to get to them, and even then you could barely get at the bulbs. I always assumed they started with the headlight bulbs installed and built the rest of the bike around it.
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I suppose I could check the service manual, but it's Sunday and I'm lazy.
How much of a PITA is it to access the bulbs? Ditto the headlights, as I'd like to go to HID?
Changing headlight bulbs on my last Honda ST1100 was a half-day job because of all the pieces needing removal to get to them, and even then you could barely get at the bulbs. I always assumed they started with the headlight bulbs installed and built the rest of the bike around it.
Accessing the city lights is a snap! Just pop 4 quick rivets, remove a panel, and pop them out. Headlights and front turn signals look like they are a pain in the butt....
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Accessing the city lights is a snap! Just pop 4 quick rivets, remove a panel, and pop them out. Headlights and front turn signals look like they are a pain in the butt....
Exact reason why I am putting off the HID headlights :(
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I suppose I could check the service manual, but it's Sunday and I'm lazy.
How much of a PITA is it to access the bulbs? Ditto the headlights, as I'd like to go to HID?
Changing headlight bulbs on my last Honda ST1100 was a half-day job because of all the pieces needing removal to get to them, and even then you could barely get at the bulbs. I always assumed they started with the headlight bulbs installed and built the rest of the bike around it.
Headlight bulbs are easy, you can reach from in front of the forks unless you have baseball mitts for hands ;)
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Headlight bulbs are easy, you can reach from in front of the forks unless you have baseball mitts for hands ;)
Are we talking about the same bike? Granted, I have never tried, but the service manual says you have to remove the windshield, and then the "inner cover" to change the headlight bulbs. In any case, this is hijacking the thread... headlights are not city lights...
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Are we talking about the same bike? Granted, I have never tried, but the service manual says you have to remove the windshield, and then the "inner cover" to change the headlight bulbs. In any case, this is hijacking the thread... headlights are not city lights...
[hijack]Not true. The headlight bulbs can be changed from above. Just turn the bars to the left so that you can get to the right bulb and visa versa.[/hijack]
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Can someone clarify what the city lights are really for, other than running lights?
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Jeremy,
Curious what you paid for your HID kit(s) from A&R.
I purchased mine from HID Nation. Both bulbs and ballasts, an extra 19.99 for lifetime warranty / free replacement, plus shipping- I paid a grand total of $76.00 !!!
I am very happy with them- Installation is easy, just takes a little time.
Thanks,
Tom
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Can someone clarify what the city lights are really for, other than running lights?
Nobody seems to know. They appear to be more decorative than anything else. Yet they have so much promise for additional safety if made brighter and amber.
Since my LED experimentation has failed, I have been trying to locate brighter-than-5W amber bulbs that will work. After many hours of searching, I have failed with that too. I found that 10W bulbs do exist but are very rare, and never amber. 10W might also be pushing it heat-wise, since the socket is nothing but soft rubber.
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Sorry, I got off subject a bit talking about HID lights.
As for the City Lights, I heard they were "required" in some countries so mamma Kaw just put them on ALL C14's/GTR's, regardless of where the bike was shipped/sold... one design.
I could be wrong.
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Jeremy,
Curious what you paid for your HID kit(s) from A&R.
I purchased mine from HID Nation. Both bulbs and ballasts, an extra 19.99 for lifetime warranty / free replacement, plus shipping- I paid a grand total of $76.00 !!!
I am very happy with them- Installation is easy, just takes a little time.
Thanks,
Tom
I paid around $90, and my kit only comes with a two year warranty. So I will check HID nation out on my next HID purchase. I just had to send in my wiring harness due a bad connection somewhere in it. Rob sent me an email within 30 minutes and told me to send it in and he would do his best to repair or replace and have a new one on it's way to me within a day. A&R knows how to deal with a customer. Two thumbs up for Rob at A&R.
Sorry for the thread jack.
Back to marker lights.
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I like the looks of this hope the police do as well.
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii61/stavee/CIMG0211.jpg)
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I like the looks of this hope the police do as well.
Yep, in many areas that is a guaranteed ticket.
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I have amber headlight bulbs and amber led 'city lights' from Autolumination in my 2010 C14. I've always liked the idea of 'being seen'. The lights seem to gain attention .... and the LEOs don't seem to mind.
I think that amber headlights are "ok legal" in many states ... altho, I could be incorrect. I know mine are pretty bright.
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Amber headlight bulbs................WTF?
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I have amber headlight bulbs and amber led 'city lights' from Autolumination in my 2010 C14. I've always liked the idea of 'being seen'. The lights seem to gain attention .... and the LEOs don't seem to mind.
I think that amber headlights are "ok legal" in many states ... altho, I could be incorrect. I know mine are pretty bright.
The feds require white headlight bulbs, I believe, in new vehicles sold in the US. State laws may differ as to what you can do where you live after the sale. You could ask 5 LEOs and get 5 different answers on the subject. Amber does stand out a bit amongst all the white lights out there now as many vehicles are coming with daytime running lamps (white). It used to be that we would stand out amongst the vehicle traffic but not anymore.
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See if this comes out ... these could be tooooo BIG. ??
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See if I can get a couple more photogs of my "amber lights" .... 8)
They are much more AMBER in person than here ...
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I have amber headlight bulbs and amber led 'city lights' from Autolumination in my 2010 C14. I've always liked the idea of 'being seen'. The lights seem to gain attention .... and the LEOs don't seem to mind.
I think that amber headlights are "ok legal" in many states ... altho, I could be incorrect. I know mine are pretty bright.
I am 100% in favor of amber city lights. In fact, mine are already amber (as you can see from previous postings). I just wish they were twice as bright- but that is not possible because LED's are much dimmer than even the stock incandescent bulb, and NOBODY makes more powerful incandescents. Even if they did, it might melt the rubbery bulb holder.
But amber headlights? I certainly would not want that. Not even if it was just a tint. Also not sure if that would be legal (I am fairly sure it isn't). You can have additional amber driving lamps and fog lamps, but I believe the headlamps are supposed to be white. (And yes, those blue fake HID things out there are also illegal).
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http://www.twistedthrottle.com/trade/productview/6158/511/ (http://www.twistedthrottle.com/trade/productview/6158/511/)
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Amber does stand out a bit amongst all the white lights out there now as many vehicles are coming with daytime running lamps (white). It used to be that we would stand out amongst the vehicle traffic but not anymore.
That is exactly why I converted my front turn signals to bright amber, full-time running lights, that blink OFF as turn signals, instead of on. I am much more visible and "different" from the front as well as the sides. I am VERY pleased with the result, except the heat.
http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=2236 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=2236)
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I believe amber headlights are legal in the US. They actually used to be a requirement in France and the lamps themselves were coated with cadmium to change the color.... and then we learned now nasty an element cadmium actually is and that stopped. Back to the US- I believe we are limited in how far we can move toward the blue end of the spectrum with 6,000 K being illegal but I do not believe there is a limit on the orange end. Orange light is less annoying to the human eye than blue light is so a light with a bluish tint of exactly the same intensity causes more annoyance than the equivalent light with an orange tinge.
Brian
<snip>
But amber headlights? I certainly would not want that. Not even if it was just a tint. Also not sure if that would be legal (I am fairly sure it isn't). You can have additional amber driving lamps and fog lamps, but I believe the headlamps are supposed to be white. (And yes, those blue fake HID things out there are also illegal).
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From what I know .... amber is fine in CT (and prolly elsewhere as well). Like fog lights, eh.
I run amber driving lights on my HDs (when I had them), and on my VTX1300 for years. No problems. And, I have amber fogs on my Wing ... which is totally different thing, but still .....
Anyway, the amber lights really set you apart from what else it out there on the road. Folks in cages notice you (I believe) much more readily than 'ordinary' white bulbs. Just my opinion. I like to be a bit different anyway.
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(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii61/stavee/CIMG0211.jpg)
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Amber headlights wouldn't be worth a darn in the dark.
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How about one amber and one white headlight? That would stand out a little, but still give you the light output for dark riding.
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I installed the Sylvania 194AN bulbs today, nice and bright with a nice amber contrast. I got these at Advance Auto in case anybody is interested.
BTW, for anyone looking for these, the part number is actually 194NA and I have seen also 194NALL which is an amber "long life" bulb (2 pack at AutoZone for $6). The 194NA single bulb is $2.29 at O'Reilly.
I am going to pick some up for when I do my oil change and a few other things to the bike.
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Amber headlights wouldn't be worth a darn in the dark.
I'm not sure this is true .... I don't ride in the DARK! With a detached retina, my vision is just OK in the daylight.
Amber works well in FOG, tho.
I did think about 1 white, 1 amber, too .... but, tho't that was tooooo squid.
The headlights are from Autolumination ... H4 60/55W. I also have some Hella P43t 60/55W (8GJ 002 525-341). I don't know the number of the Autolumination bulbs ... they are H4 3500K bulbs. I got the led city lights there as well. Can't remember the number.
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They actually work very well. More illumination with less glare (for everyone including the person sitting on / in the vehicle with the amber lights). Something around 2,800 K would be ideal if they were available in a package that put out full light. The 3,000 K HIDs are standard HID tubes with covers on them and the light output is reduced substantially. If someone actually produced an HID that produced its natural light in that color range I would give them a try.
Brian
Amber headlights wouldn't be worth a darn in the dark.
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For those that have replaced the city lights, do you have to remove the lower piece below the headlight to do so or can you reach in from the top after removing the two side panels (where the storage compartment is on the 2010+ models)?
I am planning on doing this tomorrow morning or Sunday morning when it's cooler in the garage but already got the amber bulbs (BTW the amber bulbs are 3.8w compared to 4.6w on the white bulbs).
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I do not think you can reach over that lower panel but even if you could, it would not be worth the effort. That panel comes out after removing four push rivets- very easy and fast to do and then the city lights are easy to R&R.
Brian
For those that have replaced the city lights, do you have to remove the lower piece below the headlight to do so or can you reach in from the top after removing the two side panels (where the storage compartment is on the 2010+ models)?
I am planning on doing this tomorrow morning or Sunday morning when it's cooler in the garage but already got the amber bulbs (BTW the amber bulbs are 3.8w compared to 4.6w on the white bulbs).
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[picture]
Yeah, I think we already discussed your highly illegal blue lights...
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I am planning on doing this tomorrow morning or Sunday morning when it's cooler in the garage but already got the amber bulbs (BTW the amber bulbs are 3.8w compared to 4.6w on the white bulbs).
What is the number of the amber bulbs you got? And where did you get them?
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Sylvania 194NALL two-pack for $5.99 at AutoZone.
Thanks Brian, that's what I had figured, but it's always better to get confirmation.
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Well, that was:
(http://s7d5.scene7.com/is/image/Staples/s0105150_sc7?$small$)
Got them installed with no problem.
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Well, that was:
(http://s7d5.scene7.com/is/image/Staples/s0105150_sc7?$small$)
Got them installed with no problem.
OK, now try to replace your front turn signal bulbs and tell us if you think THAT is easy :)
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OK, now try to replace your front turn signal bulbs and tell us if you think THAT is easy :)
Not until they actually go out! ;)
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Sylvania 194NALL two-pack for $5.99 at AutoZone.
The other post said 194AN, you have 194NALL whats the difference?
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Try doing a search for 194AN and you won't find anything. If you do a search for 194NA you will find the amber bulbs. The LL at the end is Sylvania's way of designating "Long Life" for a bulb.
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Thanks for clearing that up, I'll pick some up today
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Did the city light switch, boy those buggers are in there tight! Went to Auto Zone they wanted $5.99 for a 2 pack but they were out of stock, went to Wal-Mart got a 2 pk for $2.49
First picture is white lights 2nd picture is amber
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Did the city light switch, boy those buggers are in there tight!First picture is white lights 2nd picture is amber
OK- you are ready for the next amber mod! http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=2236 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=2236)
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I’ll repeat a post I put up a couple of years ago that the winner will be the guy who figures out how to remove those city lights completely and modify the housing to be able to shine a couple of those new 2” diameter HID’s through those holes. Make them adjustable left/right to serve as deer-lighter ditch lights or driving lights depending on the situation. May not be even close to possible, I don’t know. Wish I had time to take on the challenge.
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I’ll repeat a post I put up a couple of years ago that the winner will be the guy who figures out how to remove those city lights completely and modify the housing to be able to shine a couple of those new 2” diameter HID’s through those holes. Make them adjustable left/right to serve as deer-lighter ditch lights or driving lights depending on the situation. May not be even close to possible, I don’t know. Wish I had time to take on the challenge.
Could be done if somebody had the time and money to fab something up. There is space back there. But why?
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Ah, to farkle or not to farkle, that is the question…
To put HID lights in a place where they won’t need to be cleaned since they would be protected?
To add improved lighting in a way that doesn’t look like an add-on and detract from the clean design of the bike?
Stealth?
But most important--
To turn something useless into something worthwhile.
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Ah, to farkle or not to farkle, that is the question…
To put HID lights in a place where they won’t need to be cleaned since they would be protected?
To add improved lighting in a way that doesn’t look like an add-on and detract from the clean design of the bike?
Stealth?
But most important--
To turn something useless into something worthwhile.
While waiting for you design that multi-hundred dollar conversion kit that requires 12+ hours of installation... at least replace them with yellow/amber incandescent bulbs now (for $5) and you have at least made them go from useless to useful (making the bike stand out a bit more).
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A couple questions for you guys, I want to get some "white" LED bulbs for my city lights... I just ordered up a set of the H4 bulbs from Murph and want my city lights to match the white color of the H4 headlight bulbs.
In looking at them so far I'm noticing that there are many different choices for how many LED's are on the bulb and that the more LEDs the more output. What is the output not to exceed?? How many LED's per bulb is best??
I'm thinking of going with these "5 LED" bulbs, am I right in my choice?? Would I be ok with watts, volts, etc?? Would they be too bright, not bright enough?? Any better options you'd recommend?
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Nokya-NOK6655-LED-Bulb-6000k-White-194-168-12256-2825-/380236257113?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item5887d8d759 (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Nokya-NOK6655-LED-Bulb-6000k-White-194-168-12256-2825-/380236257113?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item5887d8d759)
Thanks.
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A couple questions for you guys, I want to get some "white" LED bulbs for my city lights... I just ordered up a set of the H4 bulbs from Murph and want my city lights to match the white color of the H4 headlight bulbs.
In looking at them so far I'm noticing that there are many different choices for how many LED's are on the bulb and that the more LEDs the more output. What is the output not to exceed?? How many LED's per bulb is best??
I'm thinking of going with these "5 LED" bulbs, am I right in my choice?? Would I be ok with watts, volts, etc?? Would they be too bright, not bright enough?? Any better options you'd recommend?
H4 is just a headlight bulb size/type.... I assume you mean the Philips X-Treme Vision H4 bulbs that Murph and others sell :) I do like them.
As I said in my other posts- LED lights are dreadful for some reason. They are either too dim, have a narrow throw, or both. I was extremely disappointed in what was supposed to be some of the brightest vehicle incandescent-replacement LED bulbs out there. They weren't even half as bright as the bulbs they were meant to replace. And cost tremendously more. I am hoping someday the products offered will be improved- LED's *can* be very bright. I have a LED Lenser flashlight that can nearly blind!
Personally, I don't see any point in the city lights at all, if they are the same color as the headlights. Turning them yellow/amber is a definite improvement, but they are so close to the headlights that the impact is minimal. Still, anything [legal] that makes the bike stand out from just white is worth it....
That said, it is true that even stock, the city lights are not the same whiteness as the stock H4 bulbs, and they will match less with the X-Treme Vision headlights. If it is just aesthetics and you don't care about the safety aspects, then you might come out OK by going with LED bulbs because they will be a closer match- but be careful, a lot of them will be MUCH bluer, landing you will the exact same problem, just in reverse. Long story short, my advice would be to just go to any local auto store and pop some amber bulbs and then you have a cheap, simple, easy change that improves your visibility and with no "matching" issues.
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H4 is just a headlight bulb size/type.... I assume you mean the Philips X-Treme Vision H4 bulbs that Murph and others sell :) I do like them.
As I said in my other posts- LED lights are dreadful for some reason. They are either too dim, have a narrow throw, or both. I was extremely disappointed in what was supposed to be some of the brightest vehicle incandescent-replacement LED bulbs out there. They weren't even half as bright as the bulbs they were meant to replace. And cost tremendously more. I am hoping someday the products offered will be improved- LED's *can* be very bright. I have a LED Lenser flashlight that can nearly blind!
Personally, I don't see any point in the city lights at all, if they are the same color as the headlights. Turning them yellow/amber is a definite improvement, but they are so close to the headlights that the impact is minimal. Still, anything [legal] that makes the bike stand out from just white is worth it....
That said, it is true that even stock, the city lights are not the same whiteness as the stock H4 bulbs, and they will match less with the X-Treme Vision headlights. If it is just aesthetics and you don't care about the safety aspects, then you might come out OK by going with LED bulbs because they will be a closer match- but be careful, a lot of them will be MUCH bluer, landing you will the exact same problem, just in reverse. Long story short, my advice would be to just go to any local auto store and pop some amber bulbs and then you have a cheap, simple, easy change that improves your visibility and with no "matching" issues.
Yes Max, I ordered the "Philips X-Treme Vision H4 bulbs" from Murph.
I agree the city lights most likely don't do much in terms of function, that's why I want them to match "color wise" the new headlight bulbs I just ordered, I don't want amber.
So how about my other questions, any issues with volts, watts, etc if I go with the ones I posted the link too? I also found them for a bit cheaper that appear to be the same bulbs (link below), but does brand matter or are they all just the same??
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/TWO-x-12V-Wedge-LED-Bulbs-6000K-White-194-168-171-Size-/250811611815?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item3a65897aa7 (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/TWO-x-12V-Wedge-LED-Bulbs-6000K-White-194-168-171-Size-/250811611815?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item3a65897aa7)
Thanks in advance! :chugbeer:
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Jay,
There is no issue with voltage. The city light bulbs are rated at 5 watts (each), and the 15 LEDs of the one in your link should be well below that (like half), so you should be OK there too.
One thing to watch for with LED lights is the rated / advertised life expectancy. The method some use to get brighter output is to increase the current through the LEDs, but that causes them to burn out quicker. I notice that seller does not list life expectancy, or current rating. However, at $0.99 each, you could buy a bunch of them, and just swap them if / when they go.
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My LED city lights have already had several of the individual LEDs "dim out" they still light up but are very diminished. I am looking for something different like orange or a bright amber to give a contrast. Having the white looks good, but they just blend in once the HIDs
are on.
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I found some city lights!
(http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j180/stevewfl/LR/20110421-DSC_0017.jpg)
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Jay,
There is no issue with voltage. The city light bulbs are rated at 5 watts (each), and the 15 LEDs of the one in your link should be well below that (like half), so you should be OK there too.
One thing to watch for with LED lights is the rated / advertised life expectancy. The method some use to get brighter output is to increase the current through the LEDs, but that causes them to burn out quicker. I notice that seller does not list life expectancy, or current rating. However, at $0.99 each, you could buy a bunch of them, and just swap them if / when they go.
Thanks Rob! :chugbeer:
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My LED city lights have already had several of the individual LEDs "dim out" they still light up but are very diminished. I am looking for something different like orange or a bright amber to give a contrast. Having the white looks good, but they just blend in once the HIDs
are on.
How many LED's per bulb are on yours Jeremy? I've seen everything from 1 to 32 per bulb so far in my search... :o ???
How long were you running them before the LED's started going out?
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How many LED's per bulb are on yours Jeremy? I've seen everything from 1 to 32 per bulb so far in my search... :o ???
How long were you running them before the LED's started going out?
I have six per, for mine and I think three on one side have gone dim. I have put at least 15,000 miles on my bike since I put them in back in February or March and my city lights spend a lot time in the on position without the bike running since my son loves to sit on my bike and hit the stebel. ;D
I will be hitting autozone and oreilly's tomorrow to find a suitable replacement.
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The limitation on how big a replacement LED you can use will end up being the bulb housing in the C-14 itself. The more LEDs in the replacement bulb, the bigger it is going to be. Unfortunately I do not know of any clever way to measure or test the fit without actually having the LED and trying it. Obviously a direct replacement LED for the lamp number will fit but there are other, larger versions available that may fit.
As others have said, the replacement LEDs also come with different mounting types, different angles and different LEDs that cast a different beam. Again, the only way to really know what works well in a given vehicle is to actually try different types.
Brian
How many LED's per bulb are on yours Jeremy? I've seen everything from 1 to 32 per bulb so far in my search... :o ???
How long were you running them before the LED's started going out?
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I have found a light made by Slyvania (168NA) it is supposedly the exact same size as the 194 but produces almost twice the light. It is rated at 38 lumens (most 194 are rated at 20-25 lumens). It is a 4.9 watt bulb compared to the 194's 3.7 watt, so I will pick a set of these up tomorrow and post some pics of the results.
http://www.autozone.com/autozone/parts/_/N-5yc1s?itemIdentifier=16909 (http://www.autozone.com/autozone/parts/_/N-5yc1s?itemIdentifier=16909)
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The limitation on how big a replacement LED you can use will end up being the bulb housing in the C-14 itself. The more LEDs in the replacement bulb, the bigger it is going to be. Unfortunately I do not know of any clever way to measure or test the fit without actually having the LED and trying it. Obviously a direct replacement LED for the lamp number will fit but there are other, larger versions available that may fit.
As others have said, the replacement LEDs also come with different mounting types, different angles and different LEDs that cast a different beam. Again, the only way to really know what works well in a given vehicle is to actually try different types.
Brian
Brian,
I've seen some LED bulbs in my search with multiple LEDs on the front face vs others with only one on the front face and the rest surrounding the sides like the ones I posted in the links. Are you saying that more on the front face is a better option? Like these on this link below??
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2X-SUPER-WHITE-T10-6000K-LED-LIGHT-BULBS-1206-SMD-6-LED-/230662277029?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item35b48b07a5 (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2X-SUPER-WHITE-T10-6000K-LED-LIGHT-BULBS-1206-SMD-6-LED-/230662277029?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item35b48b07a5)
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I did not mean to say that but I think it probably is a better option on the C-14. I think only front facing LEDs will be effective in the C-14 city light housings and any LEDs mounted sideways will not actually make any useful light.
I am running the ones that came with the HID kit I got from A&R in one of the group buys on the old forum. To be honest, I never even look at them and really only know they are still working because I can see light in front of the bike when I turn the key on at night. But I do not know if any of the LEDs have dimmed or failed as Jeremy mentioned. ??
What I thing would be a better option is LEDs that pulse. Not flash but change light output from, say, 60% to 100% at some high pulse rate that catches the eye's attention. When you look directly at them they appear to put out steady light but the peripheral vision actually sees the pulsing light. I have seen LED strips that do this and was very impressed with them but I think that is really for another thread.
Brian
Brian,
I've seen some LED bulbs in my search with multiple LEDs on the front face vs others with only one on the front face and the rest surrounding the sides like the ones I posted in the links. Are you saying that more on the front face is a better option?
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I did not mean to say that but I think it probably is a better option on the C-14. I think only front facing LEDs will be effective in the C-14 city light housings and any LEDs mounted sideways will not actually make any useful light.
Well based on that I just bought these on ebay, pack of 4 bulbs with 6 LED's on the front face. Tough to go wrong for $8 shipped, I'll keep you guys posted when they arrive...
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp3984Q2em1439Q2el2649QQitemZ330592877117QQsspagenameZSTRKQ3aMEWNXQ3aIT (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp3984Q2em1439Q2el2649QQitemZ330592877117QQsspagenameZSTRKQ3aMEWNXQ3aIT)
Thanks for all the help as always! :grouphug: :chugbeer:
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Those are very similar to what I have. Decent output and the best thing is they are cheap. If and when they burn out, throw another in.
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Those are very similar to what I have. Decent output and the best thing is they are cheap. If and when they burn out, throw another in.
Agreed! That's why I went with the 4-pack, they had a 2 pack for a couple bucks less but I figured I'd double up for future spares if needed... :)
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Why are the blue bulbs illegal?
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Why are the blue bulbs illegal?
LEO's don't appreciate it when civilians have blue or red forward facing lights. Something about impersonating an officer. ;D
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Well based on that I just bought these on ebay, pack of 4 bulbs with 6 LED's on the front face. Tough to go wrong for $8 shipped, I'll keep you guys posted when they arrive...
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp3984Q2em1439Q2el2649QQitemZ330592877117QQsspagenameZSTRKQ3aMEWNXQ3aIT (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp3984Q2em1439Q2el2649QQitemZ330592877117QQsspagenameZSTRKQ3aMEWNXQ3aIT)
Thanks for all the help as always! :grouphug: :chugbeer:
Yeah, let us know what you think of these ZG. I might have to get me some.
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I did not mean to say that but I think it probably is a better option on the C-14. I think only front facing LEDs will be effective in the C-14 city light housings and any LEDs mounted sideways will not actually make any useful light.
I am running the ones that came with the HID kit I got from A&R in one of the group buys on the old forum. To be honest, I never even look at them and really only know they are still working because I can see light in front of the bike when I turn the key on at night. But I do not know if any of the LEDs have dimmed or failed as Jeremy mentioned. ??
What I thing would be a better option is LEDs that pulse. Not flash but change light output from, say, 60% to 100% at some high pulse rate that catches the eye's attention. When you look directly at them they appear to put out steady light but the peripheral vision actually sees the pulsing light. I have seen LED strips that do this and was very impressed with them but I think that is really for another thread.
Brian
Brian, I admit to not reading this entire thread or doing my homework. But let me make a comment on your thoughts. If the housing is designed to reflect light - then side mounted LED's will add to the visibility. If it is not designed as a reflector "base", then you are correct. I am heading out to the garage and will take a look at the bike and report back my thoughts.
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Hmmm, been out in the garage changing the oil and drive lube on the Goldwing and forgot to look at the lights on the Concours......I'll be back.
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I am more than happy with my amber bulbs I got at Advance Auto, they were cheap and look/work great. :thumbs:
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Okay, I just got back in from the garage. I cleaned the Corvette and Concours, and still forgot to look at the lights. I'm whipped. I'll try to remember later :-\
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Ok, so I've been sitting out by the pool with my wife for a while now, still have not looked at the lights.......
Just walked out and looked at it. That is a complex looking lens over the lights, but the reflector part behind it looks like a satin silver, so I am inclined to agree with Brian that any LED's bulbs not facing forward are probably not going to do any good.
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I picked up the Slyvania 168 NAL and I think they look decent. I wish they were brighter but for $5 I am satisfied. I will keep my eyes open for anything that looks like it could work, but these are working for now.
(http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m245/flygirl5485/IMAG0115.jpg)
(http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m245/flygirl5485/IMAG0114.jpg)
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What I thing would be a better option is LEDs that pulse. Not flash but change light output from, say, 60% to 100% at some high pulse rate that catches the eye's attention. When you look directly at them they appear to put out steady light but the peripheral vision actually sees the pulsing light. I have seen LED strips that do this and was very impressed with them but I think that is really for another thread.
That is why I put dual xenon strobes in mine (in with the amber incandescents)- same kind of concept. 1 flash per second. They are small xenon so not quite bright enough, but enough to help catch the eye. Ironically, they are just bright enough that I can't use them at night, because the flashing is visible on the pavement and too distracting to me :)
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I have found a light made by Slyvania (168NA) it is supposedly the exact same size as the 194 but produces almost twice the light. It is rated at 38 lumens (most 194 are rated at 20-25 lumens). It is a 4.9 watt bulb compared to the 194's 3.7 watt, so I will pick a set of these up tomorrow and post some pics of the results.
http://www.autozone.com/autozone/parts/_/N-5yc1s?itemIdentifier=16909 (http://www.autozone.com/autozone/parts/_/N-5yc1s?itemIdentifier=16909)
Those are the exact ones I got. They don't seem any brighter than the stock ones, to me at least. Of course, the amber tint does/will drain some of the total light output. Otherwise, I think their claims are just typical, non-meaningful, marketing stuff.
I picked up the Slyvania 168 NAL and I think they look decent. I wish they were brighter but for $5 I am satisfied. I will keep my eyes open for anything that looks like it could work, but these are working for now.
Please do let us know if you ever do. Like you, I would love to have something much, much brighter.
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Hmmm, been out in the garage changing the oil and drive lube on the Goldwing and forgot to look at the lights on the Concours......I'll be back.
Okay, I just got back in from the garage. I cleaned the Corvette and Concours, and still forgot to look at the lights. I'm whipped. I'll try to remember later :-\
You cleaned em both within an hour and a half? You better do it again as I'm sure that you must not have done a thorough job. ;)
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You cleaned em both within an hour and a half? You better do it again as I'm sure that you must not have done a thorough job. ;)
Trust me, they are clean. But then again, they weren't real dirty when I started. Here in Houston we are in the middle of hottest and dry-est year on record. Everything just gets dusty and grungy - not really dirty. I have an air conditioned garage so I just used a bucket of water and mit to go over them to get the dust off.
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Trust me, they are clean. But then again, they weren't real dirty when I started. Here in Houston we are in the middle of hottest and dry-est year on record. Everything just gets dusty and grungy - not really dirty. I have an air conditioned garage so I just used a bucket of water and mit to go over them to get the dust off.
Ah, that 'splains it then. Here in Illinois it takes me that long just to get the bug guts off of my bike. :o
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I picked up the Slyvania 168 NAL and I think they look decent.]
http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m245/flygirl5485/IMAG0114.jpg (http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m245/flygirl5485/IMAG0114.jpg)[/img]
Jeremy,
In your night picutre, our bikes look so similar.
I've got the HID Nation bulbs on the main headlights, and left the PIAA Super Plasma GTX Wedge bulbs in for some 'contrast'. Until I find some super cool LED wedge bulbs, I'll just stick with what I have.
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Well based on that I just bought these on ebay, pack of 4 bulbs with 6 LED's on the front face. Tough to go wrong for $8 shipped, I'll keep you guys posted when they arrive...
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp3984Q2em1439Q2el2649QQitemZ330592877117QQsspagenameZSTRKQ3aMEWNXQ3aIT (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp3984Q2em1439Q2el2649QQitemZ330592877117QQsspagenameZSTRKQ3aMEWNXQ3aIT)
Thanks for all the help as always! :grouphug: :chugbeer:
Arrived and installed, here's some pics.
I'm undecided, they look plenty white and bright enough, but compared to the H4 extreme-plus bulbs I just got from Murph they almost seem to have a little blue'ish tint to them...
Man it's tough to take good pics of lights on, this is the best I could do with my BB without getting major glare and echo's, they look much brighter in person IMO...
(http://i1200.photobucket.com/albums/bb336/jaywilcox/IMG00482-20110827-1311.jpg)
(http://i1200.photobucket.com/albums/bb336/jaywilcox/IMG00481-20110827-1311.jpg)
(http://i1200.photobucket.com/albums/bb336/jaywilcox/IMG00491-20110827-1315.jpg)
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Ok, now it's dark out and the pics are showing a little better, here's some more shots...
(http://i1200.photobucket.com/albums/bb336/jaywilcox/IMG00504-20110827-2052.jpg)
(http://i1200.photobucket.com/albums/bb336/jaywilcox/IMG00502-20110827-2051.jpg)
(http://i1200.photobucket.com/albums/bb336/jaywilcox/IMG00508-20110827-2054.jpg)
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I'm undecided, they look plenty white and bright enough, but compared to the H4 extreme-plus bulbs I just got from Murph they almost seem to have a little blue'ish tint to them...
Like I warned you, "white" LED's are typically considerably "blue". At least yours were "cheap" and seem to fill the lens well. It is impossible to judge brightness with a picture, but they also seem considerably brighter than the amber LED's I used (and rejected in favor of amber incandescents).
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The LED vehicle lamps available seem to be in the 7K Kelvin range, which makes them definitely on the blue side of white. Tungsten bulbs are in the 3K Kelvin range, which on the red or orange side of white. You are probably going to have a tough time finding LEDs in the same color range as tungsten lighting and will have to settle for the ones you dislike the least. For what it is worth, 4,100 Kelvin is considered white; anything less is shifted toward the red end, and anything higher is shifted toward the blue side.
Brian
Arrived and installed, here's some pics.
I'm undecided, they look plenty white and bright enough, but compared to the H4 extreme-plus bulbs I just got from Murph they almost seem to have a little blue'ish tint to them...
Man it's tough to take good pics of lights on, this is the best I could do with my BB without getting major glare and echo's, they look much brighter in person IMO...
<snipped photos>
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Ah, that 'splains it then. Here in Illinois it takes me that long just to get the bug guts off of my bike. :o
That about does it for me.... Couple a times a year.
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Anyone seen this yet? 1400GTR CityLight T10 LED (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Wqz0wujnfw#ws) Mostlikely illegal here in the US but very cool and highly visible.
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Anyone seen this yet? Most likely illegal here in the US but very cool and highly visible.
Yep, seen it. They are not all that bright. But as you said. they are likely illegal. Being so blue doesn't help, either.
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I went the amber bulbs, once the headlights are on the city lights are almost lost anyway.
(http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a1d739b3127ccefe71b756ea8d00000030O01CcNWzly0Yg9vPhw/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/)
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I went LED amber, in top of that i did add an extra running lights inside of the signal lamps
(http://i42.servimg.com/u/f42/12/22/83/92/parkin10.jpg)
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Looks nice
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gildaguz, can you post a link to where you got them and a pic with the headlights on? Those amber LEDs look pretty bright, but I want to make sure that they are actually more noticeable before I buy another set.
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gildaguz, can you post a link to where you got them and a pic with the headlights on? Those amber LEDs look pretty bright, but I want to make sure that they are actually more noticeable before I buy another set.
Every 168/194 amber LED blub for the City Lights I have seen/tried have been between somewhat to very much dimmer than the equivalent amber incandescent. Just a word of caution.
http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=598.msg22919#msg22919 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=598.msg22919#msg22919)
http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=810.0 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=810.0)
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gildaguz, can you post a link to where you got them and a pic with the headlights on? Those amber LEDs look pretty bright, but I want to make sure that they are actually more noticeable before I buy another set.
Here is the link, i will post the picture later, i'm waiting for the sunset to take the pic
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2x-SMD-2-5W-T10-168-194-W5W-WHITE-Wedge-LED-Light-Bulb-/170586583833?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item27b7c0b319 (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2x-SMD-2-5W-T10-168-194-W5W-WHITE-Wedge-LED-Light-Bulb-/170586583833?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item27b7c0b319)
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gildaguz, can you post a link to where you got them and a pic with the headlights on? Those amber LEDs look pretty bright, but I want to make sure that they are actually more noticeable before I buy another set.
(http://i42.servimg.com/u/f42/12/22/83/92/pre_2011.jpg)
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Here is the link, i will post the picture later, i'm waiting for the sunset to take the pic
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2x-SMD-2-5W-T10-168-194-W5W-WHITE-Wedge-LED-Light-Bulb-/170586583833?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item27b7c0b319 (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2x-SMD-2-5W-T10-168-194-W5W-WHITE-Wedge-LED-Light-Bulb-/170586583833?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item27b7c0b319)
I know that they are usually not as bright as regular bulbs, but gildaguz's lights looked quite a bit brighter than mine unless he was playing with the setting on his camera. I might have to try a set of them out, but $15 seems a little steep.
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For what it is worth, 4,100 Kelvin is considered white; anything less is shifted toward the red end, and anything higher is shifted toward the blue side.
Brian
Not to start an argument (and I don't know for sure if I'm right so correct me if I'm wrong) but when I put the HID bulbs in (the H4's), 6,000Kelvin was said to be the whitest, purest form of white light. 8,000k started to get you that signature hint of blue (that's what I went with), and also available was a 12,000k bulb which was supposed to bring you to a violet color. Again, just FWIW... thx
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The brightest, whitest light from vehicular HIDs occurs in the low 4K Kelvin range. The nominal number used by Philips is 4,100 Kelvin if I remember correctly but anything in the low 4K range will look white to the human eye. The edges of the headlight will always appear a touch more blue than the main beam in any reflector headlight and there is usually a blue band right at the cut-off line of projector lights.
Tungsten (halogen) lighting is usually right around 3,200 Kelvin and appears more or less white unless seen near an HID light and then it has a decidedly orange cast to it.
Anything in the 6,000 Kelvin range has a distinct blue tint and will produce less light output compared with the same wattage HID in 4,100 Kelvin temperature.
Just for reference you can take a look at this: http://www.manyadeal.com/page.html?id=24 (http://www.manyadeal.com/page.html?id=24)
And we're not arguing, just discussing. If we can't do that then there isn't much point to the forum. ;)
Brian
Not to start an argument (and I don't know for sure if I'm right so correct me if I'm wrong) but when I put the HID bulbs in (the H4's), 6,000Kelvin was said to be the whitest, purest form of white light. 8,000k started to get you that signature hint of blue (that's what I went with), and also available was a 12,000k bulb which was supposed to bring you to a violet color. Again, just FWIW... thx
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Hey Brian,
Looks like we're getting different information handed to us.
This is off the hidnation site.... http://hidnation.com/ (http://hidnation.com/) (under the FAQ's)
"What does 3000k, 6000k, 8000k, etc. mean?
These numbers are associated with color temperatures. Each number represents a color. The break-down is an industry standard and each number correlates as such: 3000k-yellow 6000k-platinum/bright white 8000k-baby blue/light blue 10000k-blue 12000k-deep blue/hint of purple."
-Guess we're both just going off of what we read...Never the less, HID RULES !!!
- I love the headlights, lots of performance, lots of compliments, and best of all I am more visible, day and night.
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There are only a handful of OEM HID lamp manufacturers (GE, Philips (the inventor), Osram, Matushita), and they all produce 4,100 Kelvin color lamps for OEM use. All cars with factory HIDs (which also happens to be all legal HIDs in the US) are 4,100 Kelvin. Phillips does make a 6,000 Kelvin lamp but it is not legal for use in the US, and it is only offered as a replacement lamp when used with aged OEM HIDs because HIDs output changes and moves toward the blue side of the spectrum as age. The highest legal color temperature is just under 5,400 Kelvin as I remember, and that was the color used in the Xenarc 1010 aftermarket lights sold a few years ago by Osram / Sylvania. I actually have a set of those Xenarc lights and they do appear more blue than Philips standard HIDs (again, 4,100 Kelvin).
Just over 4,000 Kelvin is the brightest HID available and that is because of the physics of the lamp's arc itself.
If you look at OEM lighting sites, I believe you will find the above to be the case. Most web sites about HID lighting are trying to sell aftermarket, retrofit lighting kits, all of which are illegal and frankly meant to appeal to kids trying to look 'kewel'.
Again, the brightest and whitest vehicular lighting is 4,100 Kelvin in temperature and about 3,100 lumens in brightness. That is for standard, legal and OEM HID lighting.
I am a fan of HIDs myself and actually think <some> retrofits in <some> vehicle headlight buckets are a good idea (it works well on a C-14) but the aftermarket supply and use of lamps beyond about 5,400 Kelvin is a bad idea for two main reasons; they produce less light, and the shift toward the blue side of the spectrum causes more glare to oncoming traffic.
Brian
Hey Brian,
Looks like we're getting different information handed to us.
This is off the hidnation site.... http://hidnation.com/ (http://hidnation.com/) (under the FAQ's)
"What does 3000k, 6000k, 8000k, etc. mean?
These numbers are associated with color temperatures. Each number represents a color. The break-down is an industry standard and each number correlates as such: 3000k-yellow 6000k-platinum/bright white 8000k-baby blue/light blue 10000k-blue 12000k-deep blue/hint of purple."
-Guess we're both just going off of what we read...Never the less, HID RULES !!!
- I love the headlights, lots of performance, lots of compliments, and best of all I am more visible, day and night.
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I put in the long 25 LED T10's. They just fit and although they are not as bright from the front as the 6/8 front facing LED's (I tested all 3) I'm going to leave them in because you can REALLY see them from the side of the bike. IMO overall more visual presence.
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I put in the long 25 LED T10's. They just fit and although they are not as bright from the front as the 6/8 front facing LED's (I tested all 3) I'm going to leave them in because you can REALLY see them from the side of the bike. IMO overall more visual presence.
I am still waiting for an LED bulb that is amber, omni directional, and much brighter than incandescent. Haven't found anything yet :( It's too bad too, because the technology exists now, just nobody is making one. It might be due to the need for a larger heat sink that just can't fit in the T10 package.
However, for TURN SIGNAL bulbs, there is much more space. And, yet, again, I have found nothing even as bright as incandescent :( If anyone DOES think they have found something, do speak up! I am running my front turn signals full time as running lights, and they are freaking HOT. http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=2236.0 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=2236.0)