Brighter Headlight - Harley Forum

Hammerhead Pat · #1 07-26-2008, 09:09 PM

I'm looking to put a brighter bulb into the headlight on my 05 Sportster and was hoping to get some opinions/ suggestions on which bulb to go with. I'm basically wanting a better view in the early morning when riding to work. Any input is appreciated. Thanks, and ride safe!!

JCourneyaP · #2 07-29-2008, 03:32 AM

I run a PIAA Extreme White in both the 04 and 05 Sporty. Brighter than stock and does not put a drain on the electrical system. JPcycles and Dennis Kirk both carry the bulbs

Hammerhead Pat · #3 07-29-2008, 05:11 PM

Thanks JCourney, I had looked at the PIAA and it sounds like that is what I'm looking for!!

#4 07-30-2008, 03:33 AM

Just a friendly word of caution...
Stay away from any bulbs rated higher that the stock 60/55 watt.
They will draw more energy and create more heat in the process.
The stock headlight bulb socket is in no way designed to take the extra heat and WILL melt.
Sadly, I have seen stock headlight bulbs melt stock sockets too.
You can change the socket to a high temp one and cure this problem, but now consider; will the stock wiring tolerate the higher power draw for an extended period of time?
I think not.

JCourneyaP · #5 07-30-2008, 06:37 AM

Dis8

The PIAA extreme whites I have using for a few years now have not caused any wiring problems or meltdown of the socket. They are rated at 55 watts and do throw the beam a little farther with a much cleaner light.

Course your point is well taken if you plan on using something that draws more juice and gets a lot hotter. The PIAA in my book works well and seems to be pretty darn safe to use with the stock setup. So far it has lasted longer than my stock bulbs did.

#6 07-30-2008, 01:02 PM

Sorry JCourneyaP,
I was not trying to imply any problems with PIAA bulbs, so long as they are 60/55 watt.
I recommend the better bulbs everytime someone wants to purchase a new one anyways.
PIAA is one of the best out there, but sadly most folks do not want to pay the price of way better quality.
Most folks will choose a higher wattage bulb at a lower (relative) price, rather than a more efficient bulb at a higher price. More watts equals more heat and my previous post explains the problem with that choice.

hdnt1550 · #7 07-30-2008, 10:42 PM

I also run PIAA ultra plasmas they have a little purple hue to them but are alot briter then the stocker especially with the brights switched on. I also run these in my pickup. Takes a little getting used to the way road sings reflect back at you.