Last updated 23 MAR 2007 Designed to be viewed at 1024 x 768
Daytona Hot Grips (and the 12v supply)
Personally, I would strongly recommend that you do not wire them directly to the battery! If you do, you will run the risk of forgetting they're on and then find you've got a flat battery next time you go to start the bike. Much better idea to run them through an ignition-controlled source such as a headlight/brakelight circuit. That way, the grips are deactivated when the ignition is switched off. The only trouble with that is that you're potentially running two heavy-current devices through a loom designed for one load.
The very best solution is to use a relay. These are far easier to wire up than people believe. All you have to do is nip down to Maplins or Halfords and pick up a 12v, 30 or 40amp automotive relay. They're only a couple of quid!
The relay will have 4 spade connectors and they will be marked as shown in the photo below. Simply follow the instructions and you'll soon have your grips roasting hot - instead of your wiring loom :-)
CLICK IMAGE FOR LARGER PICTURE
You'll note from above that T85 is the terminal that detects the ignition is on. For this, you need to find a wire which is only live when the ignition is on. The Moto Guzzi Griso has a fuse-box under the seat and the bright green wire is the braking-light circuit. That's an ideal wire to splice into for T85. Remember, that T30 is the main supply for the heated grips. And don't forget to add an inline fuse to the T87 wire.
That wasn't hard was it?? Same applies for other high-current accessories that you might fit, such as driving lamps.
If you're not going to fit high-current devices such as heated grips, but you want a switched-supply for your SatNav device or your Intercom or MP3 Player, etc, then why not do this.....
Splce into the bright-green wire as described in previous article and run the cable to a 6-way block-connector. Make the first 3 connections positive and make the other 3 negative by running a cable to the battery's earth terminal. Now you have a simple, cheap and accessible source of switched 12v supplies for your accessories. Don't forget to add an inline fuse for added safety.
Tom