Side stand switch

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

How to perform the test

Channel A

Plug a BNC test lead in to Channel A of the scope. Place a small black clip on the lead end with a black moulding (negative) and a Back-pinning Probe onto the end with a red moulding (positive). Place the small black clip on to the motorcycle frame or battery negative, as illustrated in Figure 1. Check the manufacturer's pin data for the fuel injection Electronic Control Module (ECM) side stand switch connection terminal. Back-probe the correct multiplug pin with the Back-pinning Probe as in Figure 2. Ensure that a good connection is made through to the wire or terminal and the probe has pierced through the wire and plug insulation.

Hit the space bar to start capturing live readings.

With the motorcycle on the centre stand operate the side stand up and down with the ignition turned on as in Figures 3 and 4.

Example waveform

Waveform notes

The example waveform illustrates the voltage change seen by the motorcycle's ECM (Electronic Control Module) as the side stand is moved from the lowered to the raised and back to the lowered position once again.

Technical information

The side stand switchs output is a small yet vital signal that needs to be monitored by the motorcycle's ECM. When a gear is selected and the rider prepares to move away, the engine will automatically stall if the side stand is in the lowered position. This is for safety, as if the engine remained running normally and the rider leaned into a left hand bend, the side stand would dig into the road and possibly cause an accident.

Faulty waveforms - troubleshooting

If the voltage remains at approximately 5 volts the switch is shorted and not operational. If 12 volts is seen, the switch has lost its earth path via the ECM.

Pin data

Our test vehicle was a Honda motorbike. Below is the ECM multiplug pin data. Pin data will be manufacturer- and model-specific and this data is shown for illustration purposes only.

AT119-2