Turn Signal Shortening & Reflectorectomy

[ivany]

I saw John Callahan's how-tos on turn signal shortening mod, but I was unsatisfied with a few aspects.

1. The mounting system for the rear turn signal changes. I wanted to keep the stock single-nut mount.
2. He did not address how to re-mount the front stalks.

Also, I saw the reflectorectomy mod, but was unsatisfied with some things there as well.

1. He does not address the front reflectors.
2. Reflectors suck! Get rid of them.

So, here is what I did. I simply took all reflectors off. For the turn signal stalks, I'm too cheap to get shorter ones so I DIY'd. I cut a 2" or so section out of the middle (leaving both ends intact) and simply epoxied the ends together. Took a few hours all together. Observations:

1. The front turn signal mounting bolts are a real PAIN to get to.
2. The metal in the turn signals is surprisingly difficult to cut. But I did it

Am I worried about the integrity? The epoxy I used is rated to 1,000 lbs/sq. in. Since there's about 1/2in^2 on each reflector, this is 500 pounds...I think I'm safe

PICS!

Pre-Mod. Looks like the darn thing has ears or something.







The Mod Itself. You can see the two "new" stalks on the left and the pieces I cut out on the right.



Post-Mod. Not quite as good as a fender eliminator, but nice and compact.











Yeah...so short signal stalks are 

For the future: the cut lines I made were pretty ugly. I used a hacksaw, but in retrospect, should have used the sawzall. Sanding the bits down flat will also make for a cleaner installation.

Enjoy!

[Mr.7]

It looks very nice for the money you put into, which is nothing.    I almost did the same mod myself until I saw Pablo's how-to page on how to install Buell turn signals and I liked those so much that I decided to go the extra mile and just buy shorter turn signals. I agree, about the reflectors, they had to go.

It's time to cut off that fender, thats the best mod anyone can make to thier GS, It was the first thing that I did to it as soon as I got mine home.

BTW- nice bike, what year is that, I'm guessing a 99 or a 2000. But I don't know that much about GS history.

[ivany]

Good guess It's a 2000.

I am really considering doing a fenderectomy (it needs one...bad...) but I am going to college in a few weeks and I need to stick the parking permit somewhere...

[Mr.7]

Yeah, riding the moto to college  I will probably be doing the same thing next year