Upgrading your motorcycle to LED turn signals is one of the most popular — and easiest — ways to modernize your bike. LEDs are brighter, longer-lasting, and more efficient than stock bulbs. But if you’ve noticed your new LED signals flashing too fast or not working at all, you likely need to install an LED flasher relay.
This step-by-step guide explains how to install an LED flasher relay on a motorcycle, why it’s needed, what tools you’ll need, and how to troubleshoot common issues like hyperflashing.
💡 Quick Answer: What Is an LED Flasher Relay?
An LED flasher relay (also called an LED turn signal relay) regulates the blinking speed of your motorcycle’s indicators. It replaces your stock relay, which was designed for incandescent bulbs that draw more power. Since LEDs use less current, the stock relay thinks a bulb is “out” — causing the signals to flash rapidly (hyperflash) or not blink at all.
Installing an LED-compatible relay fixes this by normalizing the flash rate for LED lights.
🧭 Why You Need an LED Flasher Relay
- ✅ Fixes hyperflashing: Stops LED turn signals from blinking too quickly.
- ✅ Ensures proper operation: Keeps left and right turn signals blinking evenly.
- ✅ Plug-and-play compatibility: Works with most LED lighting kits.
- ✅ Energy efficiency: Designed to match the low current draw of LEDs.
Most Eagle Lights LED turn signals are plug-and-play with modern motorcycles, but older bikes may need a flasher relay upgrade for perfect performance.
🧰 Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these items:
- LED flasher relay (2-pin or 3-pin, depending on your bike)
- Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
- Socket wrench set
- Wire cutters or pliers
- Electrical tape or heat shrink tubing
- Zip ties (for clean wire management)
- Dielectric grease (optional, for weather protection)
Pro Tip: Always disconnect your motorcycle’s battery before working on electrical components to avoid short circuits or shocks.
⚙️ Step 1: Locate the Stock Flasher Relay
The flasher relay is a small, cube-shaped or rectangular module that controls your turn signal timing. Depending on your motorcycle’s make and model, it’s usually found in one of these locations:
- Under the seat (most cruisers and sportbikes)
- Behind the side panels
- Near the fuse box or under the gas tank
- Inside the headlight housing (on older bikes)
Check your owner’s manual if you’re unsure — or trace the wires from your turn signal switch to locate it.
⚡ Step 2: Identify the Relay Type (2-Pin or 3-Pin)
Motorcycle relays come in two common configurations:
| Relay Type | Description | Typical Models |
|---|---|---|
| 2-Pin Relay | One power input, one output to turn signals | Older Harley-Davidson, Yamaha, Honda models |
| 3-Pin Relay | Includes an extra ground or indicator connection | Modern bikes, some European models |
Check your existing relay before ordering a replacement to ensure compatibility.
🪛 Step 3: Remove the Stock Flasher Relay
Once you’ve located the relay:
- Turn off the ignition and disconnect the negative terminal of your battery.
- Unplug the old relay carefully by pressing its tab or pulling gently on the connector.
- Inspect the connector for corrosion or bent pins — clean if necessary.
Keep the original relay in case you need to revert to stock lighting later.
🔌 Step 4: Install the New LED Flasher Relay
Now you’re ready to connect the LED relay:
- Plug the new relay into the same connector — it should match your stock wiring pattern.
- If your motorcycle uses spade terminals, connect the wires manually and secure them with electrical tape or heat shrink.
- For universal relays, follow the wiring diagram provided with your unit:
- “B” or “+” = Power input
- “L” = Load (turn signal output)
- “E” or “–” = Ground (on 3-pin relays)
Use dielectric grease on the connectors for corrosion resistance and ensure all wires are insulated properly.
💡 Step 5: Test the Turn Signals
Reconnect your battery and turn on your ignition (without starting the engine):
- Activate the left and right turn signals.
- Ensure they blink at a consistent, normal rate (1–2 blinks per second).
- Check the hazard lights if your bike has them.
If everything works properly, your installation is complete. If not, review the troubleshooting section below.
🧠 Step 6: Troubleshooting Common LED Relay Issues
| Issue | Possible Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| LEDs still hyperflash | Wrong relay type or loose connection | Confirm correct relay (2-pin or 3-pin) and secure connectors |
| Signals don’t blink at all | Blown fuse or incorrect wiring | Check fuse box and verify wire polarity |
| One side blinks faster | Unbalanced LED load | Install resistors or check ground wire |
| Indicator light stays solid | Improper relay grounding | Ensure proper earth connection on 3-pin relays |
Tip: Some bikes use self-canceling signal systems (like Harley-Davidson). These may require Eagle Lights load equalizers instead of a simple relay replacement.
🌦️ Step 7: Weatherproof and Secure the Installation
Once the relay is working properly:
- Wrap exposed connectors with electrical tape or use waterproof shrink tubing.
- Secure the relay module to the frame or under the seat using zip ties or a mounting clip.
- Ensure no wires are pinched or rubbing against moving parts.
Protecting your electrical connections ensures longevity — especially if you ride in rain or humid conditions.
🧩 Step 8: Optional — Install Load Resistors (If Needed)
Some motorcycles (particularly Harleys with CAN bus systems) may require load resistors if the LED relay alone doesn’t fix the flashing rate. Load resistors simulate the electrical load of stock bulbs.
- Connect one resistor across each turn signal wire (between positive and negative leads).
- Mount them on metal surfaces — they can get hot during use.
- Test again to confirm proper flash rate.
Note: Eagle Lights LED turn signal kits often include built-in resistors or plug-and-play compatibility — no extra parts needed.
📋 Safety Tips When Installing an LED Relay
- Disconnect the battery before wiring or soldering.
- Use only motorcycle-grade wiring and components.
- Never splice wires without insulating them afterward.
- Double-check all connections before powering up.
- Test your lights before reassembling the fairings or seat.
Proper installation ensures reliability — and prevents short circuits or electrical fires.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)
What does an LED flasher relay do?
It controls the blinking speed of your LED turn signals, preventing hyperflashing caused by LEDs’ low power draw.
Do I need an LED flasher relay for my motorcycle?
Yes, if you’ve installed LED turn signals and notice fast or inconsistent flashing. Some bikes require load equalizers instead.
Where is the flasher relay located?
Usually under the seat, near the fuse box, or behind the side panels. Check your owner’s manual for exact placement.
What’s the difference between a 2-pin and 3-pin relay?
2-pin relays use power and load connections, while 3-pin relays include an additional ground or indicator wire.
Can I use resistors instead of a relay?
Yes, but resistors generate heat and require installation for each signal. A relay replacement is cleaner and more efficient.
How long does it take to install a relay?
Usually less than 30 minutes with basic tools and experience.
🏁 Final Thoughts: Fix Hyperflash and Ride Bright
Installing an LED flasher relay on your motorcycle is a quick, affordable upgrade that ensures your turn signals function correctly and safely. With just a few tools and 30 minutes of work, you can eliminate hyperflashing, balance your lighting, and enjoy the crisp, modern look of LEDs.
For reliable performance and plug-and-play simplicity, choose Eagle Lights LED turn signal kits — engineered for compatibility, brightness, and durability on every ride.
Ride safe. Ride visible. Ride bright.
