Standard Tail Light (Quick Easy Question)

[stokes776]

Are both bulbs supposed to be lit for the tail light when the brakes are not engaged?

From memory it seems like only my right bulb is lit when I walk around the bike with it running and I was watching some videos and I am thinking I might have a bulb burned out?

These are stock bulbs, tail light.

[mitch79]

Your answer is yes, both bulbs should be lit.
The tail light bulbs are a dual filament design containing a low wattage tail light filament and a higher wattage brake light filament.
The part number you want is 1157. Best replace them as a pair.

[stokes776]

Thanks Mitch!  That number sounds like a standard automotive light that I could get at Wal-Mart?  Will replace in a pair, thanks again!

[mitch79]

Yes mate, 1157's are a common bulb. Any places that sells auto bulbs should have them

Oh, in case you haven't done it before, to change the bulbs remove the two screws securing the lens and pop it off. Unlike most cars there's no removable bulb carrier in the back of the light.

[Higgins13]

Ebay sells em for REAL cheep if you can wait for shipping.

[Devikah]

Howdy.

I'm getting set to replace both bulbs in my tail light with Part No. 1157.  One burned out, so I'm replacing both.

A quick question for someone who has a second to answer it, please.

The following info is imprinted on the bulbs' housing:

A: 32/3CP

E: P21/5W

J: 12V/18/5W

What do they mean?  Just curious, is why I ask.

Thanks in advance.

[Janx101]

The 5w is the normal tail light wattage, the 18 and 21 are the brake light wattage.  Normally they are both the same so it looks like the previous owner changed one only... doesn't matter too much either 21 or 18 but personally I like them the same.

The 32/3cp thing? No idea!

[Devikah]

Thank you.

Those letters and numbers were stamped onto the metal housing by the manufacturer. 

Thanks again.