Modern Vespa

I am no electrical expert so pardon the basic questions. I would like to install LED brake bulbs on my 2016 BV 350 and the instructions say two thing I hope to get your input on;
1. it says: "LIGHTS DIM OVER TIME" does that mean the LED bulbs will not last as long as the OEM bulbs?
2. load equalizer: I assume that is a must not a suggestion for optimum performance


https://www.amazon.com/SYLVANIA-Bright-Ideal-Lights-Contains/dp/B01A77TT7U/ref=sr_1_3?hvadid=78546423238527&hvbmt=bb&hvdev=c&hvqmt=b&keywords=sylvania+zevo+1156&qid=1582246985&sr=8-3

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Sylvania%27s+Load+Equalizer+product&i=tools&ref=nb_sb_noss

https://www.sylvania-automotive.com/products/other-lighting/zevo-led/load_resistor.jsp


Thanks in advance

1. LED bulbs will last far longer than incandescent bulbs (unless they're damaged in some extraordinary event). You may never need to replace them. I suspect the statement is just some weasel words saying "they won't last forever", and could also be left over from similar statements on incandescent bulb packaging.

2. Older cars used mechanical "flasher" modules to cause the turn signals to blink. You've probably heard them clicking when you use the turn signals. These flashers depended on a certain electric current running through them to make them work. (On your car, you may also have noticed that the indicators on your dash blink faster if a turn signal bulb is blown out. That's because the current is reduced in the turn signal system.)

Newer cars, and I believe many modern scooters, use an electronic switches to flash the signals. Their flash rate doesn't depend on the load current. But going back to the mechanical flashers: LEDs use much less current so the old flashers will blink at a very high rate, or may not work properly at all. The "load equalizers" just add a resistor to make the system use more current and trick the flasher modules into thinking there are ordinary bulbs installed.

I may be wrong, but I don't think you'll need load equalizers on your BV350. Besides, they're only needed to control the turn signal flashing rate; they're not needed with brake lights.

Get the LEDs, and you shouldn't need the resistors.

Thank you, I appreciate your help!

I have LED turn signals on my custom BV and yes I needed resistors. Even with them, the signals flash faster than stock. Maybe one day someone can find a replacement relay to solve this.

You're correct. Apparently the BV comes with a mechanical flasher, as I see from the electrical and parts drawings. (It's too cold to actually look at my scooter! ) Anyway, the flasher is located in front of the steering tube (#15 in the drawing).

I found lots of "LED turn signal flashers" on the 'net but there are many shapes and sizes. I couldn't tell which would fit the BV.

I have LED bulbs on my GTS 300 and used this rely based on the mechanic's recommendation. No issues for the last the last 2 1/2 years.

Black Menba frequency Adjustable 2-Pin Electronic LED Flasher Relay for motorcycle (black)

Did you get it from a scooter dealer AF1 or just online ?

I bought it from Amazon and for some reason it is no longer available on Amazon

Exactly and good explanation. You don't need a resistor for the brake, not break, LED bulb.


Best Miguel

Thanks Miguel, that is helpful much appreciated it. I also corrected the spelling mistake...

Hi Miguel,

Can you tell me if an LED bulb for the break light would really work as opposed to a double filament incandescent bulb?

Maximiano