Wiring and Heat

[Biker 1]

Modern bikes have lots of wiring, much of which is very close to the engine. Are the wires insulated with a heat proof coating, or are they just normal stuff? I ask, as I want to run a 12V supply directly from my battery to a switch on the handlebar, & the easiest route is under the tank with all the other wires, where things are are rather warm. Should one use specific heat resistant cable? Also, what sort of gauge is good for around 3 amps?

[Jazoli]

Normal wire will be fine, 3 amps isn't a great deal, its good practice to use a relay wired to the battery with an inline fuse and use a switched live to power the relay, Halfords will have suitable wire.

[scarble]

Usually just some plastic duct or cloth wrap, that's how most vehicles are from the factory.
Stops it chafing and probably holds the heat back a little.

Around the exhaust is hot but the rest of the engine probably less than 90 celcius.

Fuse your positive wire at the battery, that way if it does melt through you won't short your battery.

I assume the stuff from vehicle wiring products is fit for purpose.
They do wrap and sleeving as well and probably fuses and relays and switches.


Eta: yea get it on a relay too, I'd probably do it fed off the same input as the ignition relay.

Edited by scarble on Saturday 7th July 20:45

[Biker 1]

Thanks people: to-the-point answers on PH - what is the world coming to??

[cmaguire]

1mm2 wire would be my choice for 3A.
As to wire used in vehicles, the wire used is thinwall stuff that is more durable and resistant than general purpose wire. I bought a selection of wire and crimps from the company Scarble mentioned (Vehicle Wiring Products?).