motorcycle body control module

[Alphamazing]

how bout forget the key. push-button start, like the vette? replace the handlebar lock with a solenoid as an option.

We already have push button start. It works well. Now a kick start? That'd be interesting.

[GeeP]

It wasn't all that long ago that putting the start function on a spring in the ignition switch was the "next big thing".  Now we're back to starter buttons for no logical reason other than "cool factor". 

Goes to show, history DOES repeat itself.   

[pherako]

y'know, the reason for push-button start is to increase starter life (in cars at least). many people keep cranking their motors much longer than they should. the overrunning clutch in the bendix keeps the motor from being stressed, but thermal loads have their effect on the solenoid. to reduce this, newer cars (even ones with the key that has the spring) release the starter solenoid once the controller considers the engine "running" (above cranking rpm)

seeing as how bikes don't have large engagement solenoids (at least not in the traditional automotive sense) the only thing that would benefit is the motor itself and the battery. whether it's worth it would be up for debate.

[pherako]

alright, one last idea to bounce off. how bout gps datalogging? this would probably add another 50-100 bucks in cost.

[foobar]

alright, one last idea to bounce off. how bout gps datalogging? this would probably add another 50-100 bucks in cost.

what purpose would it serve?

[pherako]

plotting your touring route for one. http://www.gnik.com/maps/google/

I think I'm gonna let this thread die. I appreciate all who responded. If you have anything else, feel free to PM me or email at lev<hyphen>s<at>mail<dot>utexas<dot>edu.