Triumphrat

Dan in Cibolo · 06-29-2009, 08:10 AM

This has got to be a "newbie" type question. Since I got my '02 Bonneville (3 - 4 weeks ago), I've been shutting the engine off by using the engine stop switch, or putting the side stand down, and then turning the ignition switch off - just seemed to be more convenient, plus it's kind of a safety feature for me - last step before starting has been to turn the engine stop switch off.

Well, I had already read the Owner's Handbook twice, and now this morning I'm reading that an owner should only use the ignition switch to stop the engine, and that the engine stop switch is only for emergency use.

Does it really matter which way you stop the engine? I don't want to cause any ignition / electrical problems, from long-term use of the engine stop switch.

Sorry for the long post ...

davidc · 06-29-2009, 08:24 AM

Good habits, bad habits...good habits are better. Turn the key off. Might save you a walk home some day.

ivar · 06-29-2009, 08:31 AM

But kinda hard to stop using the key if using the left hand to hold in the clutch lever.

(Thats why I want to relocate the ign switch so I can reach it with my right hand)

But, as DavidC says, very easy to forget tuning off the key if stopping the engine with the kill switch or sidestand.

Ventura · 06-29-2009, 08:47 AM

On all the bikes Ive ever had, I cant recall EVER using the kill switch to stop the engine?

As far as I know they're fitted to allow emergency stopping of the engine i.e. when its on its side after a crash with the throttle wide open and the rear wheel spinning in the air!! (seen that happen first-hand!)

The switch on the side stand is also there as a safety device.

The ignition switch, just as in your car, is there to stop the engine.
Put it in neutral, switch ignition off, easy done!!

V.

Tbirdnz · 06-29-2009, 08:51 AM

Normal way is to stop the bike, place in neutral, switch off the ignition key, and if you have one, turn off the petrol tap if parking. Then put the side-stand down and dismount from the bike.

Some old timers give a little blip to the throttle just before they turn the ignition key off, not necessary these days, but it sounds good.

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Ride on !

Dan in Cibolo · 06-29-2009, 09:03 AM

Good replies ... thanks.

giantbutcherdog · 06-29-2009, 09:59 AM

pop it into neutral and turn off with the key simples yes

BonnieBlack · 06-29-2009, 10:09 AM

MSF trains you to use the emergency cutoff every time. That way it is instinctive to reach for that switch in an emergency.

Even though the manual says use the key, not the cutoff switch, I can't believe it makes much of a difference. Just like the long discussions about oils and chain lubes, it's probably more fun to discuss than having any significant impact on the mechanics of the bike. Has anyone ever heard of a mechanical problem resulting from over use of the cutoff switch?

convict · 06-29-2009, 10:17 AM

I have been using the kill switch since 2001 ..... if they wanted me to use the key they would have put it somewhere useful! I addition now that i am using the clubman bars it is a real pain just to get to the key so i have no plans on changing. The good thing is that i am very aware of where the kill switch is if i need it. Try beeping the horn once and while too so you can find it quickly.

billstokes · 06-29-2009, 10:29 AM

If you are parking on an incline, you'll want to put it back in gear after you shut off the engine.