Fuses

Fuse electrical circuits

(Excessively) high currents can heat up wires beyond the permissible level. This was certainly not a problem in the early days of motorized two wheelers. Nevertheless, to be on the safe side, Harley-Davidson already had built-in fuses for the headlights and horn on the first ignition and light switches.

The electric start models were fitted with bimetal fuses ("circuit breakers"). These had the advantage that they cooled down after a certain time and closed the contact again. If the driver used the interim time for troubleshooting, the engine would then re-start without problem.

Different fuse types

In the DIY and custom area, flying fuses are often used, in blade style plug-in or torpedo design, with the appropriate holder. Of course, the blade type plugs also fit into the standard fuse holders of all Softails, Dynas, Buells, Touring models and Sportsters. There is also a sophisticated system of plug-in sockets for fuses and relays from Hella. There you can arrange the electrics in a truly diligent way. You won't believe how great a tidy electrical system is, if it should ever be infested with a not self-explaining problem and you're standing on the side of the road at night with a flashlight.