So you upgraded your turn signals to LEDs—only to find them flashing like crazy. Or worse, not working at all. The culprit? Your bike’s electrical system isn’t happy with the new low-wattage LEDs.
That’s where a load equalizer comes in.
In this article, we’ll break down what a load equalizer is, how it works, and why it’s critical for LED turn signal upgrades on most motorcycles—especially Harley-Davidson and Indian models.
What Is a Load Equalizer?
A load equalizer is a small electrical component that mimics the electrical resistance of a traditional incandescent bulb. It tricks your motorcycle’s flasher relay or control module into thinking nothing has changed, preventing:
- ❌ Hyperflashing (rapid blinking signals)
- ❌ Turn signals that don’t flash at all
- ❌ Error codes on digital dashboards
Why LED Turn Signals Cause Problems
LEDs use far less power than halogen bulbs. That’s great for efficiency—but your bike’s electrical system interprets this as a burned-out bulb or faulty connection.
| Bulb Type | Wattage | Voltage | Current Draw |
|---|---|---|---|
| Halogen 1156 | 27W | 12V | 2.25 amps |
| LED Replacement | 3–6W | 12V | 0.25–0.5 amps |
Do You Need a Load Equalizer?
Here’s how to know:
| Scenario | Load Equalizer Needed? |
|---|---|
| Upgrading to LED turn signals | ✅ Yes |
| Changing to LED brake lights | ✅ Possibly |
| Using a plug-and-play LED kit | ⚠️ Check kit details |
| Factory LEDs (OEM) | ❌ Not needed |
What Happens Without One?
- Your LED signals may blink too fast, or not at all.
- Your dash may show an error or “bulb out” alert.
- You might fail inspection due to incorrect signal timing.
- Your auto-cancel signals might stop working properly.
Types of Load Equalizers
- Resistor-Only: Inline resistors that match halogen load. Must be mounted securely away from heat-sensitive components.
- Signal Stabilizers: Advanced electronic modules that manage load and prevent CANbus errors. May include turn signal timing features.
- Plug-and-Play Harnesses: Integrated into some LED kits, eliminating the need for separate wiring.
How to Install a Load Equalizer
- Locate your motorcycle’s turn signal wires.
- Match the polarity (positive and ground).
- Wire the equalizer in parallel with the circuit.
- Secure the module with zip ties or double-sided adhesive.
- Test the turn signals—they should blink at normal speed.
Note: Always follow model-specific instructions and test before riding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will a load equalizer drain my battery?
A: No—only draws current while turn signals are active.
Q: Do I need one for every LED?
A: Not necessarily. You typically need one per circuit (left and right).
Q: Can I skip this if I have a CANbus LED system?
A: Only if the system is truly CANbus-compliant and tested for your motorcycle model.
Recommended Product
Eagle Lights Plug-and-Play Load Equalizer
- Compatible with Harley-Davidson, Indian, and metric bikes
- Prevents hyperflash and dashboard errors
- Waterproof aluminum housing
Upgrading to LED turn signals is one of the most important visibility and safety improvements you can make—but don’t skip the load equalizer. It’s a small, inexpensive component that ensures your signals work correctly and your ride stays street legal.
Ready to fix hyperflashing for good?
