Heated bike grips. Do they really work?

**Coldrider** · 1st May 2010, 20:00

A rely is merely a remote switching device. Used correctly it can reduce the lenght of power cable required to power a device, from source to load, thus also reducing voltage drop.
That is all a rely does. A rely if specified may also have stronger contacts for switching loads.

**sunhuntin** · 1st May 2010, 21:13

so, can heated grips be activated by a switch, like indicators or high/low beam, or do they have to be hard wired on so they run constantly?

if i get a pair, i will get the boys at work to fit them for me [basically free. gotta love work perks] and want to make sure they will do it right.

**dipshit** · 1st May 2010, 21:34

Originally Posted by sunhuntin

so, can heated grips be activated by a switch, like indicators or high/low beam, or do they have to be hard wired on so they run constantly?

They will have their own switch that you mount somewhere.

Plus it (the switch) should only be powered when the ignition is on.

**SPP** · 1st May 2010, 23:07

I've drawn up a quick pic which may help.

Click image for larger version.

Name: Relay example..jpg
Views: 36
Size: 174.3 KB
ID: 206413

Using a relay is best but plenty of people connect in parallel without issues. The relay isolates the Hot-Grip circuit and any low current feed can be used to activate it.

Note: A relay will close (or open) when current is passed through it from another circuit e.g. I've shown an ignition switch and headlight as an example.

**Coldrider** · 2nd May 2010, 20:10

The fuse splitter should be fed from the load side of the ignition switch anyway (with ignition off, what circuits actually work ?).
A relay will be the weak link introduced to the system. A coil wound of really fine wire with its inductance limiting its load. When the plunger operating the contacts gets sticky or the contacts burn up due to the dc resistive load, the relay coil will burn up, at least the coil will act as its own fuse it will open circuit. I've replaced many in my lifetime, you never forget the smell.

**sunhuntin** · 2nd May 2010, 20:53

Originally Posted by dipshit

They will have their own switch that you mount somewhere.

Plus it (the switch) should only be powered when the ignition is on.

sweet as. thanks for that

**007XX** · 3rd May 2010, 09:58

Originally Posted by sunhuntin

sweet as. thanks for that

I swear by mine, get some! Oxfords one definitely

**Maha** · 3rd May 2010, 10:02

Originally Posted by yungatart

Another tip for beating the cold...wear your bra over the top of your thermal, rather than underneath!

I have been doing that for years now.

**zealchick** · 3rd May 2010, 17:07

OK sooo.... I got some!! Put them on last night, they are THE BOMB!!!! Thanks every one for your opinions/suggestions/instructions/advice etc

**Qkchk:Me** · 3rd May 2010, 17:24

2 Words.

Hell Yes!

Had them on the DR650, the VFR800 and now on the Bking. Wouldn't leave home (for any extended road trip) without them.

**BiK3RChiK** · 3rd May 2010, 17:27

Awesomeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

**PrincessBandit** · 3rd May 2010, 18:50

I have Oxfords on my bandit and they're the beez neez. Yes, even in Auckland it can get cold enough to use them!!!
Funnily enough the topside of my fingers still get cold, but my palms are toasty. I've never had them on full at 100%, 75% is the hottest I've ever used them.

There are plenty of us sooks living here in Auckland, so join the club!

**zealchick** · 3rd May 2010, 19:36

Originally Posted by PrincessBandit

I have Oxfords on my bandit and they're the beez neez. Yes, even in Auckland it can get cold enough to use them!!!
Funnily enough the topside of my fingers still get cold, but my palms are toasty. I've never had them on full at 100%, 75% is the hottest I've ever used them.

There are plenty of us sooks living here in Auckland, so join the club!

I had them on 30% today perfect!!! newest member to the sook club