Brammo Owners Forum
Brammo Empulse Discussion => Brammo Empulse Mods => Topic started by: BrammoBrian on March 31, 2013, 06:11:20 PM
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I’ve been an Empulse R owner for about 1 week now and for those that know me, that’s plenty of time to start modifying my bike to my personal tastes! It helps that I’ve had plenty of time to plan what my first changes would be. All of the modifications shown here are pretty straight-forward aftermarket replacement parts that anyone could accomplish. Most of the parts were ordered through Parts Unlimited, and chances are that your dealer has an account with them already. I’ve provided the Parts Unlimited part number in the event anyone wants to duplicate the mod for themselves.
(http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp17/wisdesign/a6ebe9e5-93cc-4834-9f11-9c44eb9770b2_zps92abd251.jpg)
First up – Brake and Clutch Levers. The OE Empulse levers are non-adjustable and I’ve got small hands (no jokes please), so upgrading the levers was a must so I can feel confident that I can respond quickly and smoothly when I need to brake hard. There are tons of options out there, but my default choice is to go with what I know, and a brand that makes good stuff is CRG. These are the break-away “Roll-A-Click” levers.
(http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp17/wisdesign/3aab1383-8b4e-4c51-a743-61714a55aa8f_zps0e4e9047.jpg)
Estimated install time: 5-10 minutes
Compatiblity: Any aftermarket lever set designed for a ’08-’10 Ducati Monster 696 should fit right up with no problem.
PNs: 0613-0355 (clutch), 0614-0303 (brake)
Tailbag. While not my favorite option for aesthetics, the truth is that sometimes you need to store stuff on the bike and this is a pretty easy way to do it. I typically carry some extra gloves (winter gloves) and rain gear in case things get nasty. Brammo worked with Saddlemen on the side bags for the Enertia, so I know they make good stuff. I was really impressed with the fit and even though this is a universal accessory, it looks almost purpose made for the Empulse.
(http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp17/wisdesign/fbf8ba7e-9218-4bc6-8c85-a31c40fbb1da_zpsf1eecba7.jpg)
Estimated install time: 10-15 minutes to get all the strapping figured out.
PN: 3516-0108 / TS1450R (standard 9” tunnel)
LED Turnsignals – This one is a bit more style than substance. I like the look of a smaller turnsignal and the Rizoma Zero 11s are really bright, which makes me feel more confident that a car driver can see when I’m about to turn. With the Zero11s, you can also see from the cockpit when they’re on, so you’re less likely to leave them on inadvertently. These aren’t cheap, but it’s a very easy install and nice cosmetic upgrade.
(http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp17/wisdesign/fdabb811-6e24-474c-9a2c-4ce44ea1ee55_zps8fb3cff2.jpg)
Estimated install time: 15-20 minutes.
PN: Rizoma Zero 11 / SKU: FR025 / purchased from www.motowheels.com (http://www.motowheels.com)
Other accessories:
CRG Hindsight Lane-Splitter bar-end mirror with Rhino-Moto bar-end mount.
Rizoma aluminum handlebar kit.
Final Result…
(http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp17/wisdesign/dd800e72-fc8f-4a1c-a25e-8671967d57ff_zps41295f8e.jpg)
Stay tuned – More to come!
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I am planning on the tail tidy/ fender eliminator mod as well, but I'm waiting on another set of the Rizoma Zero 11 turnsignals before I do that one.
I'm also going to start playing with some reflective rim tape as I love the improved visibility to other drivers and the fact you can make some cool color accents. I can probably pick up a few mph on the top end with racing stripes alone! 8)
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awesome info and pics!
I also have small hands (that is opposite is size from other body parts ;D) and was looking at those levers but never knew what to order!
your bike is looking great!
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LED Turnsignals – This one is a bit more style than substance. I like the look of a smaller turnsignal and the Rizoma Zero 11s are really bright, which makes me feel more confident that a car driver can see when I’m about to turn. With the Zero11s, you can also see from the cockpit when they’re on, so you’re less likely to leave them on inadvertently. These aren’t cheap, but it’s a very easy install and nice cosmetic upgrade.
I'm glad you have good taste and chose the same ones I did. ;) Actually, I think they have lots of substance (as well as Italian style): not only can I see them from the cockpit, other drivers, especially those in my blind spot, can see them. Heck, if you factor that in with their brighter throw, you just HAVE to buy these, for they're clearly a safety item!
I've always drooled after and avoided Rizoma kit because of their price, but I thought these were fairly decently priced.
Before I spring for the tail bag, can you give us an update on the Givi side case mounts' ETA? My backpack seems to be getting ever heavier!
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gahhh! you guys are making me jones for the Rizoma's....
what's the part number for the rears?
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Grrrrr, dang you Brian...making me spend my money...double grrrrr
So the turn signals...guess I'll order 2...or 4 if front and back are the same parts (which I assume they are)...
So...bar end mirrors, tail tidy and turn signals will be my first mods (well there is one other mod done first, but that is a surprise)...then maybe the seat raise will be after that...
that should cover it for a while since I don't have tiny hands... :)
Gavin
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Brain...did you see the Rizoma Avio 21 turn signals? they come in Red...
(http://www.anesmotor.com/images/products/00/08/34/834_buyuk.jpg)
I trying to decide on Zero vs Avio...and silver vs black (i will be getting the white Empulse R)
or silver in front and black in the back...but that might be too strange...
Gavin
ps...the red looks sharp on a red bike...
(https://www.competizionemotoracing.com/imagem/index/387605/G/rizoma_pt506b.jpg)
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3407/3344392993_05d263b45c.jpg)
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ok...screw subtle...getting 4 GOLD Rizoma Avio 21 turn signals...I figure the gold will go well with the shocks up front and will be hella blingy off the back.
g
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Brain...did you see the Rizoma Avio 21 turn signals? they come in Red...
First of all - who is Brain? ;)
I agonized over all the Rizoma style indicators and determined I like the Zero11s best, although there are others that are really nice, including these. The Rizoma stuff is definitely pricey, but it feels worth it when you get the parts and really seems to fit with a high-tech, unique vehicle like the Empulse. I think they can look a bit too "tech" for your typical gas bike... i.e. Ducati Monster, Triumph Bonneville, etc...
I'm also not a big fan of red anodized as it's usually more "pink-ish" and fades to even more pink after some time in the sun. I like the CRG levers, but wish they came with an option to replace the adjustment lever with a black or bare aluminum piece.
The part number for the turnsignals is the same front or rear. I just had an extra set of 2 from a previous project - my BMW. I replaced the rears, but opted to stick with some flush mount indicators on the front fairing, so I had 2 left over. My order for the rear should be in this week though.
Regarding the rear bag - for the cost, I would definitely recommend it. It has nowhere near the storage capacity of the side bags, but it's also nowhere near as bulky or expensive. Suggested retail through Parts Unlimited for the Saddlemen tail bag is $124.95. I'm not sure on the schedule for the GIVI side bags as this project is being handled by the Sales group (thunk! thunk! - that's the sound of me throwing Adrian under the bus).
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We all know who "Brain" is...I think the general comments were along the line of "scary smart" when talking about a certain somebody.
But yes, I often type Brain for Brian...not sure if it's dyslexia or stupidity...well actually I do know, but don't like to admit it to myself that I just not smrt...
The Zero 11's are nice as they will shine more to the side...but to me the Avio is just Italian sexy...
I hope the gold doesn't fade to a yellow piss color. Our Sun is hella strong here...but my bikes are garage kept at home and work...so only the weekend rides in the mountains will she be sitting in the Sun for long periods...
Gavin
PJsParts had them in stock...so I will likely have some photos to share next week. There goes another 200 bucks to replace perfectly good turn signals...
Modding is a sickness.
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First of all - who is Brain? ;)
I don't think you're thinking what I'm thinking Brain...
Pinky! Are You Pondering What I'm Pondering? p1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwlCzYzjYls#ws)
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I hope the gold doesn't fade to a yellow piss color. Our Sun is hella strong here...but my bikes are garage kept at home and work...so only the weekend rides in the mountains will she be sitting in the Sun for long periods...
Well, Gavin, you're just gonna hafta wrap the anodized bits with black vinyl electrical tape for daily use and take the tape off for weekend rides around Santa Fe where hella bling counts the most.
Yes, farkles = sickness. If there's a 12-step program for it, don't tell me!
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...I'm not sure on the schedule for the GIVI side bags as this project is being handled by the Sales group (thunk! thunk! - that's the sound of me throwing Adrian under the bus).
def through Adrian under the bus!!! LOL I'm still waiting to hear back from him about the torque specs for the titanium bolts and other items!
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Maybe we need a separate thread for throwing Adrian under the bus. ::)
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A separate thread? I'm thinking that would need it's own forum :)
Gavin
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thunk . . thunk . . BANG . . thunk
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Brian, or Shiny...
For the Rizoma turn signals, which schema did you use?
Or, are the Empulse turn indicators LED, 6-<10W, 21W or 10W?
Thanks...this is my next project...but I am electrically challenged...I see a schematic and my eyes instantly glaze over and I start thinking about projects more fun than electrical work on motorcycles...like getting a root canal, or doing self removal of an ingrown toenail...
Thx
G
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I definitely remember having to use a resistor. I think the OEM's are 10W. (I have forgotten after suturing my own appendectomy.)
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crap!? I ordered the lights but didn't see anything mentioned about resistors. On the link briam had there are some connectors for a ducati....would that work?
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The lights come with resistors in the box...it's just that there are 4 different scheimatics of how to use the resistors depending on the current set up.
Now if the Empulse had LED turn signals, then no resistors needed. But I will need to use the resistors included in some pattern...I just don't know which yet and I am hesitant to try at random as I am NOT an electrical guy at all.
Gavin
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I found some no-name 14 led amber turn signals on Amazon.com for $9.95 a pair. I have put two on the back as of today. They work fine so far and are very bright. I did have to drill the mount holes a little bigger.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008R099CA/ref=oh_details_o02_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008R099CA/ref=oh_details_o02_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
I took a picture after I had put one in for reference. Much smaller profile, but same "arrow" shape.
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New light on right - old on left.
The tip also blinks so it shows from the side.
David
PS, both sides are done now on back.
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Well I just figured out you can change one set (front or back), but not both. Then the resister need arises. So I will only do the back (which is where I wanted it brighter anyway) and leave the front stock.
Oh, yeah. One more thing. If you are messing around testing turn signals with the key on, you need a ten amp fuse to fix the burned out one. But now I have spares!
David
And it is not the small bolt that releases the seat, but the larger one behind it.
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Well I found something that says that for replacement turn signal bulbs for the Empulse you should use a 12V 18W Bulb...
so i am even more confused as Rizoma has schematics for no resistors for straight LED to LED replacement or for 6-<10W bulbs, or 21W bulbs or 10W bulbs...
Should I go with the 21W bulb scheima?
Gavin
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I wouldn't think that Brammo is using old thermal style flashers where it needs a minimum load in order to flash correctly. I can't see any on the bike under the faux-tank. I think they're all electronic, so any LED bulb should work..... maybe contact Brammo directly and ask.
Trying without resistors shouldn't hurt anything.... if it does anything, it'll just change the blink rate.
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Well Matt from Brammo told me they are 10w, so I used that schema and it was pretty easy...
I am the opposite of Brian (bizarrobrian?)...I did the rear turn signals today...I will likely tackle the fronts tonight or tomorrow...looks like I have to remove the headlight shroud...and I want to do that a bit carefully as there are tons more wires and all that...I should wrap that one connection too while I have it open...so want to make sure which one it is...
G
Photos soon...
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I should wrap that one connection too while I have it open...so want to make sure which one it is...
The photo on this forum is a very good clue. Otherwise, just look for a white, squarish, 6-pin automotive connector, as it's the only one like that under the headlight shroud. Tape that bad boy!
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Eh, as my lovely wife would say, I grew a pair and went a head and did the front signals too...so I will wait a while before reopening that front shroud to wrap that connector as the hardest part was getting the last screw back in that dang front headlight
We don't get much rain here anyways so I'm not overly worried.
So mod update....all four turn signals on, swing arm sliders, land split mirrors and vanity plate with carbon fiber cover and fancy license plate bolts all done...not sure what's next...might take a modding break :)
Photos soon...
Gavin
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On the last headlight shroud screw... ya just gotta push firmly to make the holes line up, keep pressure on the shroud, and start the machine screw a coupla turns and then you're good to go.
First time, I was afraid to push as hard as I needed to, but it really does work and nothing breaks.
In short, Gavin, Shove It!
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Quick update... I also added the clear Pro-grip tank protector. It's a pretty good fit for the Empulse "tank" and does a good job keeping the area from getting scuffed by belts, etc...
(http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp17/wisdesign/02d93469-12fa-4fa5-888a-e643298a17dc_zps870ce179.jpg)
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Very nice. I was thinking, dang that is an exact color match...till I re-read the post...CLEAR...must learn to read posts more slowly...
G
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is that the short model?
I like it.
G
edit...ah, looks like just the top half of the 5007...looks better that way...the full 5007 takes up a lot of tank..
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I used the full version as well. The top half went above the ridge in the tank and then the bottom half was trimmed to nicely fit below the ridge but not to the seat. I won't take credit as the dealer did it for me while they were updating my firmware, but I'll try to take a picture and post it. It does take up a bit more of the tank, but the scuff marks from my jacket zipper were clearly dulling the finish at least as high as the protector went so I'd question if the shorter install really protects enough of the tank when you are leaned over with an exposed jacket zipper.
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Rizoma aluminum handlebar kit.
Out of curiosity, how do the Rizoma bars compare to the stock ones?
Also, anybody know if there are specs/dimensions/etc anywhere for the stock bars?