Switchback Turn Signals Explained: What They Are & Why Riders Love Them

When customizing your motorcycle’s lighting system, especially the front turn signals, you may come across the term switchback turn signal. If you’re unsure what it means—or whether you need them—you’re not alone.

At Eagle Lights, we’ve helped thousands of riders upgrade to brighter, safer, and better-looking LED lighting systems. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about switchback turn signals—what they are, how they work, and why they’re one of the most popular lighting upgrades for Harley, Indian, and metric motorcycles alike.

 

What Is a Switchback Turn Signal?

A switchback turn signal is a dual-function LED signal light that operates in two colors:

• White (or amber) for the running light or Daytime Running Light (DRL)

• Amber for the turn signal

Here’s how it works:

1. The white light stays on when your bike is running—functioning as a DRL.

2. When you activate your turn signal, the white light turns off, and the amber LED flashes instead.

3. Once the turn is complete, the amber signal stops and the white DRL automatically comes back on.

This “switching back and forth” behavior is where the name “switchback” comes from.

 

Why Are Switchback Signals So Popular?

Switchback turn signals are the perfect blend of form and function:

✅ Enhanced Daytime Visibility

White running lights make your motorcycle more noticeable to other drivers, reducing the risk of accidents—especially in bright daylight or dense traffic.

✅ Clean Custom Look

When not signaling, the white DRL creates a halo-like glow—giving your front end a polished, modern appearance.

✅ Safety-First Functionality

By switching to amber only while signaling, the turn signal is highly visible and clearly distinguished from the running light—reducing confusion for nearby drivers.

✅ Plug-and-Play Installation

Eagle Lights switchback kits are designed to work with factory Harley and Indian wiring (and metric bikes with standard 2- or 3-wire setups). Most installations take under 30 minutes.

 

Switchback vs. Standard Turn Signals

 

Where Are Switchback Signals Typically Used?

Switchback signals are usually installed on the front of the motorcycle, where they can function as both running lights and turn indicators. This is especially common on:

• Harley-Davidson Touring models (e.g., Street Glide, Road Glide)

• Softail and Dyna models with bullet-style housings

• Sportsters like the Iron 883 and Forty-Eight

• Indian Scout and Chief models

• Metric bikes like the Honda Shadow, Yamaha Bolt, Kawasaki Vulcan, and more

They are less common for rear signals, where red or amber-only turn indicators are typically used for legal reasons.

 

Color Options

While white + amber is the most popular and legal configuration for switchback signals, some riders opt for:

• Amber + amber switchback – For all-amber setups

• White + red – Typically not legal for front signals

• RGB switchback (for show use) – Custom color while parked, switches to amber when signaling

✅ At Eagle Lights, we only offer DOT-legal color configurations for on-road safety and compliance.

 

Benefits of Switchback Turn Signals

1. Visibility and Contrast

Switchback LEDs provide a high-contrast shift from white to amber, making it crystal clear that you’re turning—especially helpful for riders in urban areas or multi-lane highways.

2. Modern Styling

They instantly modernize the look of older bikes without changing the entire housing or fairing.

3. Reduced Glare Compared to White-Only DRLs

Because the DRL turns off when signaling, switchbacks prevent the white light from competing visually with the flashing amber.

4. Easy Installation

No need to modify your stock housing. Our kits are made to plug into OEM signal sockets, using your existing turn signal housing and lens.

 

Eagle Lights Switchback Kits

We offer a wide selection of switchback-compatible LED signal kits, including:

🔧 Harley-Davidson Switchback Kits

• Fits Softail, Dyna, Touring, and Sportster models

• Bullet-style LED inserts

• White DRL + amber turn signal

• Plug-and-play with included resistors to fix hyperflash

🔧 Indian Motorcycle Switchback Kits

• Works with Scout, Chief, Chieftain, and Challenger

• Smoked lens options

• Includes mounting adapters where needed

🔧 Universal Metric Kits

• Fits Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, and Suzuki models

• Available in 2-wire or 3-wire configurations

• Includes mounting stalks and resistors

 

Installation Guide

Tools You’ll Need:

• Screwdriver or Allen wrench

• Optional: electrical tape, heat shrink, zip ties

Installation Steps:

1. Remove your factory signal bulb and lens

2. Plug the switchback LED into your stock socket

3. Connect included load equalizer/resistor if needed

4. Test the DRL and turn signal functionality

5. Secure wiring and replace lens

Some kits include separate DRL leads (for halo-style DRLs) that connect to an ignition wire or accessory fuse.

 

FAQs

❓ Do switchback signals require special wiring?

Most are plug-and-play. Some halo versions may have a separate DRL wire that connects to your ignition or running light circuit.

❓ Are switchback signals legal?

Yes, when configured as white DRL + amber turn signal, they are DOT-compliant and legal in all 50 states.

❓ Will they cause hyperflashing?

Without a resistor or updated flasher relay, yes. That’s why all Eagle Lights switchback kits include load resistors or built-in CANBUS compatibility where needed.

❓ Can I use switchbacks in the rear?

Generally no. Rear turn signals must be red or amber only, depending on your state. Switchbacks are designed for front use.

 

Shop Switchback Turn Signal Kits

Looking to upgrade your bike’s safety, visibility, and custom look—all in one move? Switchback turn signals are the ultimate two-in-one solution.

👉 Shop Switchback Turn Signals Now

Eagle Lights has plug-and-play kits for Harley, Indian, and metric motorcycles—with lifetime warranty and U.S.-based support.