Forum

[Dezza]

I've got a. 2015 model 500 classic. I've just found that when I release the front brake lever, it 'springs' back about 1/4" & touches the brake light plunger/contact, causing the brake light to be working constantly! I have to push the lever forwards to break contact & hold it there to stop the brake light from working. I've taken the lever out, & cleaned it up, but it still 'springs' back & turns the light on. I wondered if anyone else has had this problem & had any idea how to remedy it?

[ric]

Is the switch unit correctly located? If so then try extending the reach of the lever tang so it will push on the switch nib earlier and break the rear light circuit sooner
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[Leon Novello]

There must be something binding between the hand lever and the brake lever; I would also check that the cable is free to slide inside the outer housing, and that the brake lever is free to move all the way back to its off position; could need a bit of lubrication inside if it is a drum brake. There might also be a kink, twist or bend in the cable somewhere. If it is a hydraulic/ disc system, I don`t know.

[Gwilly]

If its a hydraulic disc system then first check the fluid level in the master cylinder and then try bleeding the system of air, topping up the cylinder as you go..

Can you spin the wheel freely without brake binding after lever release?

Check brake hose for kinks, see if lever still doesn't return fully with stop switch removed.

If fails with all the above then master cylinder needs cleaning and refurb..

If brake binding then calliper assy needs cleaning and lubing..

[Dezza]

Thanks for all your replies. I've checked & the switch seems to be located correctly ric. & it is hydraulic Leon, so no cable to cause problems. The fluid level seems fine Gwilly, & the front wheel spins freely, but I haven't tried bleeding them, so thanks, I'll see if that helps. The pin on the switch seems to be pushing the tang of the brake lever out, rather than the lever depressing the pin!

[2cvandy]

Hi Dezza, I don't know if it's the same set up, but I had a similar problem on my Harley, caused my me unfortunately! On the Harley the pin in the brake light switch has a little top hat thing over the end of it, which I somehow manage to dislodge and loose in the process of changing the bars. I didn't realise until mates told me my brake light was flickering on and off all the time. Obviously this piece is not available to purchase seperately, and give HD spares prices I wasn't going to buy a new switch,,,,,,,, so I glued a small square of flat plastic, cut to shape, onto the brake lever tang, to take up the free play that shouldn't have been there between tang and switch. It's been there 10,000 miles now and the brake light works perfectly. Hope the solution to your problem turns out to be as simple.