Use of Kill Switch?

[screwtop]

I'm almost afraid to ask, but how many of you guys routinely use your kill switch to start and shut off you bikes? I have never used mine on the GS or the RS I had before, (just used the key) and never had any ignition problems. I've always thought the kill switch was there for emergency purposes only.

Anyway, I was out riding my HD, and my friend says that the proper starting procedure is to turn the key, and then click the kill switch to "run" and then hit the starter button. He said that if you are only using the key, it is analgous to throwing a breaker (physical disconnect) under load, rather than a simple switch and could harm the ignition system. Seems to make sense, but is it really necessary?

Thanks!

[empeg9000]

I always use the kill switch. Its just what I learned in the MSF course years ago and I just keep doing that.

[DarrylRi]

Well, I'm not an HD mechanic -- not a BMW mechanic either -- but the kill switch is just another switch in line with the ignition switch.

I think the MSF recommends using the kill switch so you'll instinctively know where it is in an emergency, just like they tell you to practice your braking so you'll be able to do it in an emergency.

For the record, I use the kill switch occassionally, but not regularly. Sometimes it's easier to hit it with my thumb than to reach over to the key. I've never had any problems with either switch...

[PUDGYPAINTGUY]

It is there to be used and works. The only point to really remember is to remember to turn it on before trying to start the bike otherwise you will wear that battery down trying...lol

[billjones]

I always use my kill switch...No particular reason I just use it....

[kbasa]

In 35 years of riding, I can count the times I've used the kill switch on one hand.

[Belquar]

Always use the switch. I never use the key. Sometimes I use the sidestand. To my understanding the kill switch and the sidestand stop the fuel pump. The key turns off the electrics.

[Luckies]

I use the kill switch and sometimes the side stand. Why? I don't have a clue, nor do I know why I started doing it. But for me now its habit, just like when I get into a cage, first thing I reach for is the seat belt. Only thing is, I know why I use the seat belt. :D

Dave

[R4RandR]

These bikes have a kill switch? :stick

[BradfordBenn]

I use the key on the BMW, the Run/Off switch on the VFR.

[lkchris]

In 35 years of riding, I can count the times I've used the kill switch on one hand.

Me, too, and it's never broken, either.

[kbasa]

Me, too, and it's never broken, either.


Bingo.

[Scootertrash]

On the R1200C, I use the kick stand to kill the engine. On the HD, I use the kill switch before I deploy the kick stand...

[Rich]

Funny this thread just came up, my 16 year old son just completed his MSF Rider Course last night. He told me the instructor taught them to always use the kill switch. He said the reasoning behind it is so that you never remove the hands from the handlbars until the engine is dead. It prevents lurches if the clutch is released while in gear. Sorry, but I am teaching him otherwise. Like putting the bike in neutral before shutting it off. And then using the key.

[Slablog]

Like putting the bike in neutral before shutting it off

You put your bike in neutral before shutting it off? Easy way to have it roll off the sidestand on a slight incline.

Oh yeah, the kill switch is very handy for shutting the bike off quickly after falling over in sand. I know this from personal experience. :thumb

[Easy]

I'm with Kbasa and BradfordBenn on this one. I never use the kill switch unless I'm parking at a very steep incline or decline, and only then so I don't have to take my right hand off the grip. I've never had a problem.

Easy :german

[robsryder]

As indicated earlier the MSF advocates use of the kill switch all the time to get you used to using it. The idea is that in an emergency access of the kill switch will be easier.

Having said that, my practice is to periodically check the functionality of the kill switch and to clean all of the switches with some WD-40 and/or contact cleaner. (Some folks don't like the use of WD-40 to clean the switches.)

I do not use the kill switch to stop the bike. I use the ignition switch - then I remove the key and put it in my pocket.

When I was much younger I did sometimes use the kill switch on my Honda dirt bike to stop the engine (if it was still running) after crashing. Happily it has been a good little while since I've crashed. I didn't practice use of the kill switch when I had the Honda dirt bike, but I was able to find it easily.

In an emergency I'm more likely to want to find the brake levers and horn button than the kill switch. Usually I find the brakes and end up hollering inside my helmet. I confess to sometimes having muderous thoughts (briefly!), but have never considered resorting to a kill switch.
:D

[screwtop]

Well, thank you all for the replies! Now I have one less thing to loose sleep over. I'll just use the damn key like I always have.

[Stuff2C]

I use the kill switch on my boxer to shut off the headlight. Wired the kill switch in the headlight to kill my lo beam. Wired the kill part straight threw.

[gadwal]

While touring western states with brother-in-law. we stopped at one of the scenic Grand Canyon overlooks. Ready to leave & his Beemer would not start; we lost 3 hours trying to locate the electrical problem; then with everything else ruled out, we discovered that the kill switch (I didn't realize that he had been using it for years) had gone bad. Took it out of the system (wired direct);and the bike fired right up......No more kill switch & no more problems!!!
It's still wired direct.

[jacco]

Sorry, but I am teaching him otherwise. Like putting the bike in neutral before shutting it off. And then using the key.

I use the kill switch 99% of the time (not for a specific reason), and if not on a hill I put the bike in neutral after killing the engine but before turning the key (so that I can see the light come on)...

[bubbagazoo]

I was taught on the motorcycle safety course I took in April that the kill switch is NOT a convenience switch and that one should always use the key to turn off the bike. This was not an MSF course because they do not operate in Canada.

I believe my MOM says to use the key as well and to only occasionally use the kill switch to ensure that it is functioning properly. I even use the key when parking on an incline. I come to a stop and while holding the clutch in, I apply the rear brake and then reach over with my right hand to turn the key to the off position. Then I let out the clutch and brake and set the bike onto its sidestand. The bike is left in first.

I even make it a point to use the key when riding my wife's Vulcan 500. And it is located on the right side fore frame by the radiator.

[BubbaZanetti]

once, maybe twice, i flick it back and forth occasionally when the bike is off just to keep the metal shiny on those contacts.........

[EastTNBeemer]

I don't know how many times I've been riding with friends, and walking into a restraunt, I turn around and see someone's headlight still burning. They used the kill switch and left the key on. I always use the key.

[MCMXCIVRS]

I accidently turned off the kill switch once. Took me a few minutes to figure out why the bike wouldn't start. Other than that, I never use it.

[marcopolo]

I always use the key, unless I drop the bike and want to shut it off in a hurry, then I'd use the kill switch.

[pcsof8]

twenty two some odd years and always kill switch.

[Fritzc]

Always use the switch. I never use the key. Sometimes I use the sidestand. To my understanding the kill switch and the sidestand stop the fuel pump. The key turns off the electrics.

Maybe I am jumping the gun a little here but I had to go out in the garage and check this out! The kill switch does turn off the fuel pump but the headlight stays on! Last week I parked bike in garage and just put the sidestand down forgetting to turn off the key. Nex morning? You guessed it, dead battery. So, how can you get by with just using the kill switch? Or are you just talking about stopping for a coke or getting gas or any other short stop?

[dbrick]

Fritz,

Thems that use the kill switch - I'm one - use it to stop the motor without removing our hands from the grips. Then we turn the key off and pocket it.

I think that the MSF reasons to use the kill switch - both to retain physical control of the bars while the motor's running, and to help your hands "learn" where the switch is - are good ones. I always use it, never had a problem.

I can understand choosing not to use the swtich. But justifying not using it because of fear that one will forget to remove the key afterwards seems out of balance; perhaps one who can't remember to pull the key out isn't sufficiently conscious for this sport, and should rethink choosing to ride.

[Fritzc]

I can understand choosing not to use the swtich. But justifying not using it because of fear that one will forget to remove the key afterwards seems out of balance; perhaps one who can't remember to pull the key out isn't sufficiently conscious for this sport, and should rethink choosing to ride.

Well I guess I should give riding because I forgot to turn key off and remove same while bike is parked in my locked garage? By your reasoning, perhaps 75% of us should not ride anymore. Post I referred to implied he ONLY used kill switch so most of those who posted to this thread left out some information. Some suggested using kill switch so they could keep both hands on handlebars. Maybe they should give up riding if they are so insecure that they cannot move their hand 10 inches from bar to turn key off. I wonder how they scratch their nose when it itches, pull over and stop? :wave

[PAULBACH]

The kill switch allows the rider to shut down the bike while still having both hands on the handlebars and both feet on the ground. That is why the MSF uses this technique.

But then again most BMW bikes were not designed for the inseam challenged so having both beet on the ground may not be the case but you will have better physical contol of the bike using the kill switch.

[screwtop]

Maybe I am jumping the gun a little here but I had to go out in the garage and check this out! The kill switch does turn off the fuel pump but the headlight stays on! Last week I parked bike in garage and just put the sidestand down forgetting to turn off the key. Nex morning? You guessed it, dead battery. So, how can you get by with just using the kill switch? Or are you just talking about stopping for a coke or getting gas or any other short stop?

Fritz,

Just to clarify, I was talking about hitting the kill switch to stop the motor and then turning the key off (not just using the kill switch). Sorry for any confusion.

[rdsmith3]

I use the key -- one less step. Actually, two fewer steps.

stop bike
turn off key
remove key

instead of

stop bike
use kill switch
turn off key
remove key
put kill switch back to run position


If I use the kill switch, I think there is a far greater chance that I will accidentally forget to turn off the key, and I will run down the battery.

I don't quite understand the MSF recommendation of two feet on the ground for turning off the bike. Whenever you stop -- for a stop sign, traffic light, whatever -- the MSF says to put your left foot on the ground and your right foot on the brake. So why do something different when you turn off the engine? Your right foot is most likely already on the brake, not on the ground.

It seems like they are inconsistent with this recommendation.

[jacco]

I use the key -- one less step. Actually, two fewer steps.

stop bike
turn off key
remove key

instead of

stop bike
use kill switch
turn off key
remove key
put kill switch back to run position


If I use the kill switch, I think there is a far greater chance that I will accidentally forget to turn off the key, and I will run down the battery.

I don't quite understand the MSF recommendation of two feet on the ground for turning off the bike. Whenever you stop -- for a stop sign, traffic light, whatever -- the MSF says to put your left foot on the ground and your right foot on the brake. So why do something different when you turn off the engine? Your right foot is most likely already on the brake, not on the ground.

It seems like they are inconsistent with this recommendation.


:thumb Man, this thread is getting more and more funnier-der. Maybe I should throw in a new option, e.g.:

"I always turn off my bike by pulling the fuse to the fuel pump"

Which would lead to:
- stop bike
- put on side stand
- crawl under bike to get spare key
- remove seat
- pull fuse
- turn off key (the one in the ignition)
- put fuse back
- reinstall seat
- re-hide spare key
- put bike on center stand
(optional: - walk to fridge to grab cold malt beverage)

Rule of thumb: Easier isn't always better...

:lurk

[dmr]

I rarely use the kill switch, but don't know why. The only thing we used them for in the past was to switch off someone else on dirt bikes as we passed.
This is the first bike I've ever had with the side stand shut off. After riding many years, I felt pretty dumb sitting in the parking lot and have the engine die as soon as I shifted into gear. Took a moment to find out what was going on. Once I did, I was pretty happy for the feature knowing what could have happened.

[rdsmith3]

Rule of thumb: Easier isn't always better...

The OP did not ask which was better. I was stating my preference, and why. You are free to do it any way you want. In any event, I have not seen any compelling reason to use the kill switch, i.e., what makes it "better".

[jacco]

The OP did not ask which was better. I was stating my preference, and why. You are free to do it any way you want. In any event, I have not seen any compelling reason to use the kill switch, i.e., what makes it "better".

You're right. Sorry. Didn't want to attack you or anything. I was just entertained by the ever increasing amount of evidence why either of the two (key or kill switch) was better. Some undiagnosed mental illness on my end probably... Your post was just a good template for a silly reply about which I didn't think for very long (maybe not long enough) ( :type ). And you know what the funny thing is? Y'all key-advocates are slowly convincing me that maybe I shouldn't bother with the switch, MSF good reasoning or not, and go right for the key... :thumb

[Slablog]

When riding with a group it's a hoot to flick the kill switch while your buddy is in the john then watch and see how long it takes him to discover it when we all get ready to ride off.

WARNING: This is along the same lines as the "fake puddle of oil" trick. This can awaken a sleeping monster if you're not careful.

Did I say "hoot"? tee hee hee

[tessler]

Key Method:
Put feet on floor.
Wait for Motorcycle (technically, it's only got two wheels) to stop rolling.
Standup.

Kill-Switch Method:
Put feet on floor.
Pull into Drive-In.
Wait for Waitress to place Barbecued Ribs on Window.
Climb-out.

You guys are right. There is an extra step!!

[Win3855]

When I am standing I will use the key... When I am laying down with it laying down with me I will use the kill switch. I showed 3 of my friends that this weekend.Very lucky none of them had a camera. :violin

[kbasa]

Key Method:
Put feet on floor.
Wait for Motorcycle (technically, it's only got two wheels) to stop rolling.
Standup.

Kill-Switch Method:
Put feet on floor.
Pull into Drive-In.
Wait for Waitress to place Barbecued Ribs on Window.
Climb-out.

You guys are right. There is an extra step!!

:ha

You're a freak. I love it.

[screwtop]

My God, what have I done? I'm sorry everyone. :cry

[breyfogle]

The only time I use the kill switch is if I am parking with the bike pointed up or down a significant grade. With the tranny in gear, and the left hand to disengage the clutch, right hand on the front brake, right thumb on the kill switch. Normally, I use the key 100% of the time.

[dlearl476]

.... the instructor taught them to always use the kill switch. He said the reasoning behind it is so that you never remove the hands from the handlbars until the engine is dead. It prevents lurches if the clutch is released while in gear. Sorry, but I am teaching him otherwise. Like putting the bike in neutral before shutting it off. And then using the key.

IMHO, anyone who's motor skills are tapped to the point where kill switch/key issue would make any difference needs to ask themselves some serious questions about whether they have enough motor skills in reserve to operate a motorcycle in the first place.

Like someone else said, I use my kill switch when the bike is on top of me, and I don't want a running motor next to (possibly) leaking fuel. Like Dave, I think I can count the number of times I've done that on one hand. (And I'm talking about dumping my F650 off-road)

In a total aside, off-topic, with (possibly) no bearing on BMWs, fuel injected Triumphs suffer definite problems when continually shut down with the E-stop. The Breaker vs. Switch analagy is apropos, but backwards. Hitting the kill switch is like throwing a breaker, not the other way round. It prevents the CPU from storing information it needs on the next startup. Obviously BMW figured some way around this, as owners don't seem to be reporting problems with using the kill switch.

[Rich]

IMHO, anyone who's motor skills are tapped to the point where kill switch/key issue would make any difference needs to ask themselves some serious questions about whether they have enough motor skills in reserve to operate a motorcycle in the first place.

(And I'm talking about dumping my F650 off-road)



Maybe a guy who keeps dumping his 650 needs to do the same. IMHO, of course. :stick

[glwestcott]

What a great thread! You have discovered a topic that everyone can chime in on and no one has the correct answer. I suspect that is because there is no correct answer! Of course that doesn't mean there isn't a morally superior one, but, being a morally inferior guy, I don't know what it is. :drink :hungover

[dlearl476]

Maybe a guy who keeps dumping his 650 needs to do the same. IMHO, of course. :stick


Ya ride a 400+ lbs motorcycle off-road and you're gonna fall down. Don't care who you are, everybody does it, from Jimmy Lewis all the way down to me.

[rdsmith3]

This is almost as much fun as a helmet thread.

[lawman]

many years ago, I owned Harleys, Hondas and Beemers, all of which developed problems with the kill switch; maybe I'm unlucky or just a slow learner but I never use the kill switch other than for an extreme emergency situation.