My manual says to use the kill switch to stop the engine. Why? What's wrong with using the ignition key to do it and saving the Kill for emergencies as on other bikes?

This seems to be a Harley/Buell convention, but I can't figure out why.

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'08 X / '16 SX

Habit. I always use the kill switch and never the key.

i use both

depends on how cold my hands are

Don't really know the answer, have always used the kill switch myself, but then reaching down the side of the bike on an S1 is not as easy either. I do seem to remember (deep down in the fuzzled brain) that there was a thread about this years ago when only tubers existed, and the recommendation was that the key not the kils switch should be used, which sound contrary to fueller advice now then? Might be something to do with pecky electronics (which of course, the purity of an S1 does not really bother with, nasty FI etc. LOL). My memory might be wrong, but I think that I remember it, if only because I always use the switch, and that was against some prevailing thought.

So, dunno, but unless someone tells me different, the kills switch is a darned site easier, and as Spook says, habit etc.

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Truly S1nthetic
Peccav1

I recall when collecting my first Buell XB9R being told to use the kill switch and to make sure the bike was upright when I started it too??? I use the kill switch to turn stop the engine then turn off the ignition key.

I remember that thread too, S1nner, but ignored it at the time, despite the recommendations of the Wise Men.

At least, I ignored it right up to the point that the kill switch on The Fridge stopped working, so now I only use the key.

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Good in straight lines
2001 X1 "The Tart's Handbag"
2001 FZS1000 "The Fridge"

That tickled me! I expect I will follow that course at some stage!

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Truly S1nthetic
Peccav1

IIRC, using the kill switch whilst tanking along through even a mildly built up area results in a thoroughly pukka explosion......... something that is the envy of those that exclusively ride FI bikes.... (eh, Norm ......

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Life is short - drink the good wine first

Especially if you do it while driving past a large gathering greeting Prince Andrew outside the yatch club in Aberdovey. I think a few of the 'Plain Clothes' types shat themselves

Mrs Adam didn't think it was funny

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If your dreams don't scare you, they are not big enough.

Never used the kill switch on any bike (which makes me particularly susceptible to the old highly amusing kill switch flick off when not looking routine)

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Wear the fox hat

Some use it and some don't. I did all the time until I read a similar thread on another forum. Made me think twice about using it but I don't know why - thats what it's there for?

I used my kill switch whilst checking in at ferry terminal heading to NW200 last Monday. Bike decided it didn't want to play after. It took a few on/offs before it fired back into life. Happened a few times last week! Trying to break the habit of using it until I have a chance to get it checked.

Jacqui. I have had problems with water in the switch gear on my XB12S. Filled the both up with as much silicon grease as I can get in there fine since.

Thanks. Will do. Aim to strip it down at weekend and have a look. All is fine as long as I don't hit the kill switch!!!!

Switching your bike off with the kill switch or the key performs exactly the same function.

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In a purple fug