My high beam went out last night, so I'm looking for a replacment. Are their better options than the OE replacement bulb that will work?
If it were me I'd go to cycle gear and get a 45W bulb with the same base. But here is some info: Headlight bulbs for more recent TE/SM bikes - stock is 35watt and are a ba20d base which is not the easiest to find. Parts Unlimited link - list price for those bulbs are under $3, Thumper Talks price is even less. 6235B-BP for the 35 Watt version. (Product Code: PU_6235BBP) 6245B-BP for the 45 Watt version (Product Code: PU_6245BBP) 6260B-BP for the 60 Watt version (Product Code: PU_6260BBP) Parts Unlimited link http://shop.thumpertalk.com/catalogs/Parts_Unlimited_Offroad_2007/default.asp?p=905&s=2
My dealer had the 45W available and it really improved lowlight/night vision. Thanks for doing the groundwork on what's out there, Coffee. I got all I needed from your important info write up over at TT.
Having extras is a good idea if for no other reason the tabs on the sides of the bulbs seem easy to bend/break off. Just noticed something last night. If you are astute and watch how much the headlight dims when the brake is applied it indicates amount of charge of the battery - if it dims a lot battery is low.
My 08 TE250 has blown two 45W high beam filaments, both bulbs had about 40 hours run time. They are 'rated' for 100 hours. My 06 TE450 never blew any filaments, neither the stock 35W or upgraded 45W, in over 300 hours of total combined use. I suspect the regulator on the 08 may be over driving the voltage a bit...but it's worth it for the extra light and zero dimming or I simply had two marginal 45W bulbs. I found Eiko 6245B at www.lightbulbemporium.com for $1.50/ea so I ordered 10 for a total of $21.99 shipped. I also have helmet lights and two 20w 'bicycle' MR11 lights, so the loss of one filament is not a big deal at night, and I have the low beam for day use as I don't ride with backup lights for morning rides.
Do you ever look at the soccer moms at the stop lights at night & freak them out with the lights in their face?
The HID helmet lights are so bright I try to avoid using them on the road unless I have to...they sure light the way but attract way too much attention, not to mention are certainly blinding to all but the hottest soccer moms.
