Modern Vespa

Those people get a 'Stern Word' at the first stop. If they don't 'get it', they are told to Fuck Off.

I think it's comical how anyone can refuse to use a switch. I have been wrenching on bikes for a long time now and I have never EVER heard of the policy that a kill is for "emergency use only!" It's a friggin' switch! If it fails after using it a thousand times then you get a new one! The Mfg's put it there to be used.

When testing any scoot on the stand I use the kill switch to stop the motor since my hand is already on the grip and my thumb is already right there.

I also like pulling up to a spot where my friends are gathered and cutting the engine 30 yards from them and coasting to a stop all silent. As I'm coasting I put the side stand down so upon stopping I just lean to the left and step off in one clean silent motion. Rico Suave'

Call me crazy...

I submit that an un-used kill switch is more likely to fail due to atrophy since a used switch will have clean contact points. WD40 in the switch once in a while will stave off rust and corrosion from moisture due to rain or condensation.

I'm certain that position is limited to this thread. I already know of one rider who has changed his habit.

The manufacturers place a engine on/off switch on the handlebars for the same reason that chainsaw manufacturers don't put the motor on/off switch (or dead-man lever) next to the spinning chain. At best, one would have to reach around/behind/under the headset to gingerly negotiate the accessory and/or column lock detents to turn off the motor. It's easier and safer to just turn off the switch and then go about messing with the key switch.

Having said that, the kill switch is a relatively easy anti-theft step if the perp wants to ride away. God knows that it defeats some of us when it's in the off position

depends on the bike

the vespa hasn't got one so cant use it

the majesty i tend to put side stand down which has a switch anyway but then turn the switch to off before turning the key

i had a scoot that kept a circuit going with the kill switch on so leaving it on would then drain the battery it got so flat the one night even kicking it over wouldn't start it as the immobiliser wouldn't disable until there was power


never leave a bike with keys in as i know too many who have got on with keys in the ignition and snapped them with there knees

I always use the kill switch. Then the key. Bill, my MSF instructor taught me to do it as a matter of habit. So I do.
I went down once, and after the shock, when I realized that the scoot was still running, I immediately shut it down using the kill switch. I didn't have to think about how to do that or reach for the key.
The service manager at one of the local dealers (I won't mention who) watched me shut off my new MP3 500 using the kill switch as I pulled it into the shop and said that I shouldn't use it -- that it would wear out.
B.S. I say. I'm listening to Bill.

Tires wear out. Switches break. Your dealer is not very helpful.

ONLY in an emergency. I think that is why it is RED in colour.

I never use it as a matter of course, but I do "exercise" it every now and again to make sure it would function if and when needed.

Why not just keep doing what works for each one of you, so if the key works for you keep doing it if not use the switch, but it will not break from use any more then the key would. beside if the thing breaks that easy the dealers would be making a killing selling switchs and labor charges and would tell you to use it.

What are you, some sort of liberal hippie that lets everyone do as they please?

*shakes fist*

8)

Nope, but this is getting as stupid as a FF/HF helmet debate. or what kind of gear people need. I guess what I'm saying is you guys own the scooters do what you like with it. just like I say its your head put a stew pot on it for all I care. BTW I do care, I don't want people hurt. 8)

No, I was being silly too because this thread has now got to that two bald men fighting over a wig stage - however I forget that the word "liberal" is a bit loaded stateside.

Live and let live. Or live and let die....

I'm a control room Operator it makes me a very up tight person, its the job. but I knew you were kidding.

the key most times....but good to test the KS from time to time

I was told to use it when picked my LX-150 , and did for a while, but after reading a lot about it (including the manual) I've recently switched to using the key.

I had the experience where this car cut me off three times. Each time he'd then slow down, so I just changed lanes and overtook him, whereupon he'd speed up just to get in front of me again.

I'd had enough, so at the next traffic lights, after he'd done it a fourth time, I decided to use the kill switch.

It didn't work. All that happened was my scooter stopped running.

OK, here's a new one for the thread. My Aprilia scoot techs have all told me to use the key instead of the switch as using the switch can eventually affect the coil and its longevity.

Not a mechanic here so don't shoot the messenger (they could be full of crap for all I know). I use the key on both scoots

I tend to use the key,i can remember my instructors words when i did my cbt,on showing me around the bike i was going to use,he pointed out the kill switch,saying only use it in an emergency,if used all the time and it breaks in the "off" position you are stuffed and will need rescueing.

Lots of different thoughts on this subject,some saying the electrics are affected if the key is used to stop the engine,i've had no problems just turning the key and people have had no problems useing the kill switch,i guess each to his/her own.

Steve

We need a kill switch for this thread!