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[131fun]

Tryin to figure out which lighting system performs better between LED and HID. Just when ya think HID is the way to go, along comes LED. Which system should I get guys, and why?

Thanks a million...

[grc]

How much do you want to spend?  At this point in time, there is no verifiable information that suggests a LED system performs any better that the HID systems, but it costs about four times as much.  It's kind of like any "new" technology where the early adopters pay a really big price premium just to be the first on the block.  If that is your thing, go for it.  If good performance at a reasonable cost is your thing, I'd say pass for now.


JMHO  -  Jerry

[1Man1God]

I'm sorta leaning towards getting the LED for myself for Christmas. (Since if I get anything for Christmas, it'll be me buying it.) Most definately think the stock light on my '10 CONV sux! Now I've heard the LED comparison on here before, and would really like to here from somebody who's seen the LED in action. If you look at the" picture" on page 648 of The 2011 H-D parts catalog, "Looks Like" ONE HELL OF A DIFFERENCE.

[GaLonghair]

I have used both the H-D LED and the Kuryacken (how ever the heck you spell it) HID system. They cost about the same and seem to produce about the same amount of light, but with some what different patterns. They both produce much better light than stock H-D halogen lights. The LEDs are a little more "white" than the HIDs. If one is looking for better light at a much cheaper cost the Sylvania replacement platanium series lights work well, but not as good as the HIDs or LEDs. For reference: I have the HID main light with LED passing lights on my SE Street Glide and used the LED light on my 07 Street Glide for comparo. Also have the H-D LED light on my SE Dyna. To me they are more than worth the money!

[131fun]

Well, I'll wait a little for the price to go down. One thing that i noticed is that the HID requires a ballast, which is more crap to hide. I don't think the LED requires as much crap (ballast) to install; plus, some are making the claim that the LED is brighter. So the LED seems to be the front runner...

 

[timtoolman]

Try DDM tuning for H.I.D.  kits, I got one yesterday, 55/35 wt  5000k color (white) bulb,  56 dollars. lifetime wattantyi i am  impressed and happy

[SteveFLHTK]

Has DDM gotten their wiring harness fixed?  When I got mine, it was a double harness for a car, with wiring too short to get to the battery.

[VRODDAVE]

Im interested in hearing more on the HD LED as well.

Would love to hear from a few more of the HD LED early adopters.

1) Happy with functionalty ?
2) Happy with looks?
3) Do you feel it puts more or less strain on charging system than stock?
4) Any issues with blinding oncomming traffic?
5) Would you spend the money again?  Good investment?
6) ANYONE who owns the HD LED and is unhappy?
7) Does the HD LED headlamp take up less space under the fairing than the stock?

Thanks

Dave

[retired fire dawg]

#1 VERY HAPPY...VERY BRIGHT
#2 Some don't like the looks but I sure do. From a distance no differance
#3 Really can not tell the difference . Battery is always charged. I even put the passing lights on also and love them also
#4The only problem is I did not have the passing lights aimed right and other drivers did not like it, but it sure makes the road BRIGHT even on low
#5 For me YES I would spend it again. Investment wise I see better  so $$$$well spent....Even bought them for the wifes bike
#6 Who would be unhappy with bright lights
#7 The HD LED takes up almost the same as stock and very easy to put in. I put both sets in in about an 1/2 hour and was slow and read the directions twice.

[VRODDAVE]

OK,  between Longhair and firedawg's  recommendations,  I'm placing an order for HD LED headlamp and spots.

Sorry 131fun, if I jacked your thread ..      

I'll go back to my corner now and wait for delivery ...  

Thanks guys for the recommendations ...  allways appreseated ..

Dave

[retired fire dawg]

Dave..you will be more than happy with the HD LED on your bike. Riding the northern Ca back roads with those lights you will see every thing and also be seen. That is if you are in Folsom ca.

[VRODDAVE]

Yes,  i am in Folsom Ca ...  the LED's are on order.  Actually,  I am looking forward to that Hy 36 run that JCZ sponsered a few weeks back.   i couldnt make it,  so im planning on doing it solo  first nice weekend that im not oncall.

 Thanks Firedawg

[timtoolman]

harness is the same and yes wiring is to short, so i  did a length 0f  heavy wire from battery to their wire connector and bolted it, in case i had to send it back under warranty, cut wires voids it they said,  wow is it bright!!!!!!

[SteveFLHTK]

I had a problem with them advertising it as a motorcycle kit, and shipping a car connection kit with it instead.  I sent mine back.

BTW, through research I have found that HID headlights in the stock reflector is illegal.  To be legal, you ahve to have a reflector designed for HID, as they have a different beam pattern than the normal bulb.

[timtoolman]

if you have harleys dual bulb set up or two head lights as some harleys have,  the two connectors on the "car harness " are used,  just curious where does it say about different reflector in headlights illegal for h.i.d.s?  But yes they should have a harness dedicated for the proper application,  but then adaptation is part of" building" a bike.  If they dont build it adapt it to suit your means. no biggie to fold the other connector back on the harness if not needed , 46.00 dollars   with lifetime warranty  vs 400-500 dollars same results  I'm happy