Replaced rear reflector with LED

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Eiron
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Year: 2015 PCX150
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Location: Loveland, Colorado

Replaced rear reflector with LED

Post by Eiron »

I did a fairly simple mod of replacing the rear reflector with a battery-operated red LED light. This is a light I used for years on my bicycles, but with smaller, brighter AAA models available I never use this AA model on my bicycles any more. Also, being an older model, it only has one flashing mode as its "ON" setting. (Legal here in the US, but possibly not in other countries.) With the LED off it's still a reflector, but now I can turn it on at night or also use it as a flashing DRL.

The only two hurdles to overcome were finding an appropriate standoff (to allow access the On/Off switch on the back) and then installing the correct size mounting screw from inside the light (this requires R&R of the LED circuit board).

I also have the same model front flashing LED (white/yellow) that I'd like to install, but I can't seem to find a decent mounting point for it. Any suggestions for a similar installation on the front? :D
Attachments
Installed LED in original rear reflector location
Installed LED in original rear reflector location
P5239946.JPG (358.05 KiB) Viewed 970 times
LED installed with standoff in original rear reflector location
LED installed with standoff in original rear reflector location
P5239948.JPG (356.62 KiB) Viewed 970 times
Original external bracket-mount screw shown next to light with standoff-length screw installed
Original external bracket-mount screw shown next to light with standoff-length screw installed
P5239950.JPG (391.05 KiB) Viewed 970 times
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fish
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Re: Replaced rear reflector with LED

Post by fish »

Good job - these bike LED units are great.
I mounted one on my scoot's rear crash bar. Has 3 settings; slow swing L & R strobe, quick, and steady on.
I used it extensively for night commuting to work in the rain.
Uses 2 AAA batteries - on/off switch is on the side for easy access.
Only on the 2nd set of batteries after 5 yrs use.
Seals well, with rubber gasket - inside stays clean and dry in wet weather.

It is amazingly bright!
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Mel46
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Re: Replaced rear reflector with LED

Post by Mel46 »

Very nice. Nice idea too. I replaced mine with an LED light that actually connects to my electrical system. In fact, I have multiple extra tail lights I have added. As far as I am concerned, the more the safer.

Even these are great: https://www.customdynamics.com/category ... ate-frames
(Yes, you can find them cheaper elsewhere. )
Currently own:
Red 2013 Honda PCX150

Givi tall windshield & tailbox - Lots of extra lights
Custom seat from Thailand - Bad Boy Airhorn
Takegawa Lowering Shocks - Michelin City Grip Tires
Headlight assy upgraded to LEDs w/HS5 main bulbs
NCY variator, drive face, and rollers
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Eiron
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Year: 2015 PCX150
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Re: Replaced rear reflector with LED

Post by Eiron »

fish, thanks! I agree, the bicycle lights are all well-sealed against weather. This unit is probably 20 yrs old now and still works perfectly. I was happy to re-purpose it for use on the scoot! Which mode (slow/fast/steady) do you find yourself using most often?

Mel, thanks! Having it hard-wired in is probably a better idea. I took my first night ride with it yesterday and I forgot to turn it on! D'oh! I just have to remember that it's there! At least it's still a reflector. :lol:
I completely agree about more is safer! I also have a Nike "All Conditions Gear" jacket with front & rear light strips that I bought specifically for bike and scoot riding.
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