Need Help with 2018 KTM EXC LED Rear Brake Light!

Motorcycles
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Seeking Guidance on LED Rear Brake Light

Hey everyone,

I’m currently in a bit of a jam with the rear brake light on my 2018 KTM EXC. I’m looking to upgrade it to an LED setup and I could really use some advice. I’ve done a bit of research, but it’s always better to hear from fellow enthusiasts who might have tackled this before.

What I’m Looking For:

  1. Replacement Options:

    • Can anyone recommend specific LED brake lights that are compatible with the 2018 model?
    • Are there any aftermarket options that people have had good experiences with?

  2. Installation:

    • I’m fairly handy, but I’d love to know if anyone has detailed installation steps or a wiring diagram handy.
    • Are there common pitfalls to watch out for during the installation process?

  3. Performance:

    • Is there a significant difference in visibility with LED lights compared to the stock ones?
    • How do these upgrades affect the overall electrical system of the bike?

  4. Compatibility:

    • Have any of you had issues with compatibility or functionality when upgrading the brake light?
    • Are there any other model years of the KTM EXC that use similar parts or systems?

Additional Thoughts:

I love my bike and I want to make sure I’m enhancing its safety with better lighting without running into issues. If you have any experiences, insights, or recommendations, I’d greatly appreciate it!

Thanks in advance for any help you can provide!

4 Likes
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Hey everyone! I’m trying to install an LED rear brake light on my 2018 KTM EXC and could use some help. What are the best practices for this installation?

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I recommend starting with a Phillips screwdriver, some electrical tape, and your LED light. It’s also good to have a multimeter to check your connections.

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Definitely! It’s so easy to overlook wiring. Make sure to isolate the brake light wire properly to avoid short circuits.

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I’ve installed LED lights on my KTM before. Be careful with the polarity when connecting them; it can be a common pitfall. Red to positive and black to negative!

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Absolutely! I learned that the hard way on my first install—it was quite the headache to troubleshoot!

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Don’t forget to check the mounting area for any dirt or debris before installation. A clean surface can make a huge difference in how well the light adheres.

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Great point! Also, using a little silicone sealant can help with protecting it from moisture.

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What type of LED light are you using, obrienmichael? Some can be more complicated to install than others!

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I’m using a standard model got from KTM’s accessory line. Any quick tips on managing the wires? It feels like there’s never enough room for everything.

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Zip ties are your friends! They keep everything neat and out of the way. Just don’t tie it too tight or you might damage the wiring.

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I always find humor in this—when it’s finally done, I celebrate by testing the light while constantly pulling the brake by hand! Pure joy!

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What’s the most frustrating part of the process for you guys? Mine was definitely connecting the last wire! It’s like they enjoy hiding.

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So true! It’s almost like they plan it out. But once you get everything sorted, it’s all worth it for the final look.

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Looking back, it’s kind of funny how much time I spent on a simple brake light. But hey, it’s all part of the learning experience!

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I had similar issues with my 2018 KTM EXC LED rear brake light, especially with flickering. Check the connections under the seat; they can get loose. A simple plug-and-play might resolve it!

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That’s good to know! I’ve been hesitant to dig in there. Did you find any corrosion or dirt when you checked?

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Absolutely! I cleaned the connectors with some contact cleaner, and it helped. If you’re still having flickering, it might be the relay. They’re sensitive!

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Thanks for the tip! I’ll give that a try. How do I find the relay on the bike? Is it hard to access?

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The relay is usually located near the battery. Just follow the wires from the brake light. It’s not too tough to get to, but I’d recommend taking screenshots while disassembling.