Switched Power

I am installing heater grips I picked up at cycle gear. Very weak instructions. I don't want to connect the grips to the battery, for if I left the grip on while the bike was off, well then there goes the battery. So I am wondering who might know where is the best source for switched power. I was thinking about the outlet in glove box, but the factory wire is so small and the fuse would probably blow. Any suggestions?

Use a relay. Any autoparts store should have a sealed headlight relay that would be perfect for this application. I wouldn't be surprised if this Forum doesn't have something in its history about what to use and how to wire it in.

Use a switched source to trigger a relay for the grips. Make sure you put a fuze in line for the heated grips.

FJRay said:

Use a switched source to trigger a relay for the grips.

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Better yet, use a switched source to power up a terminal strip or similar arrangement, in case you ever want to add more powered goodies.

Why not use the circuit Yamaha intended and included on the bike for OEM heated grips. It's an extension of the headlight circuit and can be found on the infamous "blue connector" that's tucked away near the accessory box. It goes hot after the engine cranks (just like the headlights).

Best I've been able to determine, it's rated for 60 watts surge / 35 watts continuous. It's relay controlled and fused, so there's no additional load on the ign. switch by adding load to that circuit.

Just beware that it does NOT have a valid ground on the "other pin". You must tap your own ground separately.

I would also seriously consider a second fuse between your heated grips and the tap you make on the blue connector pin, just in case something shorts on the heated grips to prevent you from losing headlights too.

I really appreciate the info, I don't know why I didn't think of the original design of the bike. I will definately use the blue connector and add an inline fuse. Thanks.

HaulinAshe said:

Why not use the circuit Yamaha intended and included on the bike for OEM heated grips. It's an extension of the headlight circuit and can be found on the infamous "blue connector" that's tucked away near the accessory box. It goes hot after the engine cranks (just like the headlights).
Best I've been able to determine, it's rated for 60 watts surge / 35 watts continuous. It's relay controlled and fused, so there's no additional load on the ign. switch by adding load to that circuit.

Just beware that it does NOT have a valid ground on the "other pin". You must tap your own ground separately.

I would also seriously consider a second fuse between your heated grips and the tap you make on the blue connector pin, just in case something shorts on the heated grips to prevent you from losing headlights too.

Click to expand...

I'm installing some heated grips as well and have been really leery to splice into any OEM wires.

Does anyone know if that 'famous blue plug' is on the Gen-1 bikes?