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Can I turn off headlights before starting?

WheresGus_

New member
Joined
Jun 23, 2025
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With previous bikes, it was often possible to turn off the headlights before hitting the starter button, and I'm thinking if I can do the same with my 2019 GW DCT? My headlights are always on as soon as the ignition is on. I'm just trying to maximize battery power for starting, and it feels like having those lights drawing power might be a slight drain during the starting sequence. Any insights or tips would be appreciated!
 
Headlights are hardwired to come on with the ignition, there's no factory way to disable them before starting like with older bikes, I get what you're going for though but the only real workaround I've seen is wiring in a relay setup that delays the headlight circuit until after the bike is running, but that's a mod and not for everyone
 
Have you checked if there's a headlight relay mod or a software tweak available for the 2019 Goldwing DCT that delays headlight activation until after the engine starts?
 
Honestly, forcing headlights to stay on during startup is one of those safety features that ends up being a lazy engineering shortcut. Riders should have the option, it's your machine, not a nanny state scooter
 
The 2019 Gold Wing DCT has a feature that prevents you from turning off the headlights before you start the bike. The headlights automatically turn on when you ignite the engine, which is part of the bike's safety design. Fortunately, the battery can manage the starting process while the lights are on, and the power drain isn't significant.
 
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