2 WHEELER COMPONENTS

AND IT’S FUNCTIONS

 Alternator
The Alternator generates electricity once the
engine is started. In simple terms, it utilizes the
engine’s crankshaft to turn the magnets and produce
electricity as an electromagnet. The alternator,
however, produces alternating current (AC) which
needs to be converted to direct current. This is
achieved through a rectifier / regulator which not
only converts AC to DC but also regulates the
amount of current that is sent to all the electronics
present on a motorcycle.
 Battery
A typical 12-volt motorcycle battery is a six-cell
unit and is made of a plastic enclosure with each cell
having a set of positive and negative plates immersed
in an electrolyte. Each cell has a voltage of around
2.1 volts when fully charged, leading to a combined
battery voltage of about 12.6 volts. The battery
delivers Direct Current (DC) to the motorcycle’s
electronics when the engine is turned off. Battery also
provides the current to crank up the engine when you
push that electric start button on the switchgear.
 Wiring Harness
The current produced on a motorcycle is
channeled to the electronic components through
a wiring harness. The wiring harness is a set of
wires, terminals and connectors, designed
specifically for a two-wheeler model to supply
electric power. It plays a pivotal role in
connecting various electrical and electronic
components on a two-wheeler.
 Voltage
In simple terms, Voltage is the pressure from
an electrical circuit’s power source. This pressure
pushes the charged electrons (termed as current)
through the circuit, and makes it perform any
specific work, like running a fan, or illuminating a
bulb. This electric pressure is measured in volts (V).
The Voltage of a battery goes down when
the battery is used and loses its charge. Similarly,
when an electrical application draws power from
the battery, the voltage goes down.
 Wattage
Wattage is a unit of power, or in simple
terms, of the rate at which energy is consumed.
One watt is one joule (a unit of energy)
consumed per second (1 W = 1 J/s). So for
example, if a light bulb, rated 100W runs for 10
hours, it would have consumed 100W x 10 hours
= 1000 Watt-hours = 1 kW-hour of energy. Fun
Fact: KW-hour is the unit used for power
consumption in our houses as well.
 Amp-hour
A battery’s Amp Hour rating describes
how long it will last while discharging at a fixed
rate. For example, a 12 Amp-Hour battery can
discharge 1.2-ampere current for 10 hours. If
you double the current discharge to 2.4 ampere,
the battery will discharge in half the time, or 5
hours, and so on. Can you imagine?
 Relays
Relays are electromagnetic switches that are
commonly used in bikes and other vehicles for
various purposes. The main reason for using relays
in bikes is to control high-current or high-voltage
electrical circuits with lower current or voltage
signals. Relays provide an isolated and protected
means of controlling electrical loads, such as lights,
horn, starter motor, and other accessories, without
directly connecting them to the bike's electrical
system.
 Sensors
• CTS – Coolant Temperature Sensor
• Knock Sensor – amount of air sucked into the
engine
• TPS- Throttle Position Sensor
• RPM sensor
• Position sensor camshaft
 Fuse box
The fuse box in a two-wheeler is typically
located under the seat or near the battery
compartment. Its purpose is to house and protect the
fuses, which break the circuit in case of electrical
faults or overloads. This helps prevent damage to
electronic components and wiring. If you're
experiencing electrical issues, checking and replacing
blown fuses in the fuse box is a common
troubleshooting step. Always use the correct rated
fuse for your two-wheeler to ensure proper protection.
 Ligits
"Ligits" appears to be a typo, possibly referring to
"lights" in a two-wheeler. The lights in a two-wheeler, such
as headlights, taillights, turn signals, and indicators, are
essential for visibility and safety, especially during low
light conditions or night riding. Regular maintenance of
these lights, including checking bulbs, wiring, and
connections, is important to ensure they function properly
and comply with road safety regulations. If any lights are
not working correctly, troubleshooting the electrical
system, including checking the fuse box and replacing
blown fuses if necessary, can help resolve the issue.
 Charging System Indicator
The charging system indicator in a two-
wheeler is a warning light on the instrument cluster.
It shows the status of the battery and alternator
while the engine is running. A normal indication is
the light being off or briefly illuminating. If the light
stays on or flashes, it may signal problems like a
failing battery or alternator, loose connections, or a
charging system malfunction. Addressing these
issues promptly is important for safe and reliable
riding.
 Kill Switch
The kill switch in a two-wheeler is a safety
mechanism designed to quickly cut off the engine's
power. It's typically located on the handlebars for
easy access by the rider. In emergencies or situations
where immediate engine shutdown is necessary, such
as a loss of control or a malfunction, the rider can
quickly activate the kill switch to stop the engine and
prevent further movement of the vehicle. It's an
important safety feature that adds an extra layer of
control and protection while riding.
 Instrument Cluster
The instrument cluster in a two-wheeler refers
to the panel or display that houses various gauges,
indicators, and information screens. It is usually located
behind the handlebars and provides essential information
to the rider, such as speed, fuel level, engine temperature,
odometer, trip meters, gear position, and warning lights
for systems like the engine, battery, and ABS. The
instrument cluster plays a crucial role in keeping the rider
informed about the vehicle's status and performance,
enhancing safety and convenience during rides.
 Horn
The horn in a two-wheeler is a safety feature
used to audibly alert other road users and pedestrians. It
is typically located on the handlebars within easy reach
of the rider's thumb. When activated by pressing the horn
button, it emits a loud sound, usually in the form of a
beep or honk, to signal warnings, indicate intentions, or
alert others in potentially hazardous situations. Using the
horn responsibly and in accordance with traffic
regulations helps enhance overall road safety for riders
and other road users.