Steamer Ignition. Key removal options.

[Danwarb]

Hi guys,

The previous steamer I had it was possible to start the bike then remove the key leaving the engine running so I could use my keys on the panniers while the engine warmed up.

My 1997 Steamer won't let me pull the key out unless I turn the key to shut the engine down.

Can this be modified easily so I can leave the engine running while I remove the key?

Is your Steamer one or two option key removal?

[nickjtc]

My '96 definitely does not let me do that. Not an issue since my luggage uses Givi locks. Personally I think the idea of being able to take the key out after turning the ignition on is fraught with potential catastrophe. But that's just me!

[Bixxer Bob]

The only way the old one would let you take the key out is the PO filed out the wafers in the lockor they were so worn that the same applied.  Then, of course, any key would fit...

[JayDub]

Not such a good idea Dan, I've had keys fall out at speed, and its easy to ride off leaving them lying around    - funny enough, my steamer is one of the very few bikes I've had which doesn't allow key removal in the on position  .... most of them had worn locks and Its good not having to clip them to a nearby cable.

[Sin_Tiger]

 

One of the first journo's to test ride the MultiStrada in the UK (keyless ignition but you needed the key to open the tank  ), he filled up, wifi key fell out of his pocket but the bike started as it was in range, next stop for a photo shoot he hit the kill switch, then couldn't start the bike again, top of a mountain in Wales on a wet Sunday with no mobile cover 

Carrying your spare key clipped inside a jacket or on a lanyard around your neck (another friend used to keep his spare inside the lining of his helmet) is something I've done for years on the advice of a well travelled senior biker. I dropped my key down between the headstock and tank once where it jammed and I didn't have tools with me, I said a silent thank you for the sage advice  .

[Danwarb]

Wow guys !

I had no idea of all the possibly key-mares !!

Fortunately I've never had any of these problems.

Seems madness to take the spare key with me when riding but I'll certainly think about it especially if I'm going on a long trip.

I give up the key removal option and think I've a solution; the keys to be held together with like a rope climbers clip so I can start the bike, unclip the keys I need leaving the tiger warming up, shut my garage door and lock it before clipping the keys back together with the one in the ignition.

Sorted.

[ghulst]

:) I'd be happy to actually have the bike running while standing. Mine does not even start or run when the side stand is down.

[JayDub]

:) I'd be happy to actually have the bike running while standing. Mine does not even start or run when the side stand is down.

A replacement switch would probably solve that issue, or even disconnecting the faulty one i.e. the clutch or neutral switch.

[Sin_Tiger]

:) I'd be happy to actually have the bike running while standing. Mine does not even start or run when the side stand is down.

Does your neutral light come on when the GB is actually in neutral? I had this issue when the bike got hot but that was in 30/5 C+ ambient temps, hasn't been a problem now it's back in the UK.

As JD says, disconnect and link out the side stand switch to check it.

[ghulst]

Funny thing this, after I mounted the crashbars, the bike now idles with the side stand down in neutral.

Don't ask me...

[JayDub]

so, learning the way of the steamer you are.