Motorcycle Hyperflashing Explained | What It Is, Why It Happens & How to Fix It
If you’ve recently installed LED turn signals on your motorcycle and noticed that they’re blinking unusually fast—maybe even double-speed—you’ve experienced what riders call hyperflashing.
This common issue affects thousands of riders every year when switching from incandescent bulbs to LEDs. The good news? It’s easily fixed with the right hardware.
In this guide, we explain what motorcycle hyperflashing is, what causes it, and how to fix it using load resistors, flasher relays, or CANBUS modules—all available at Eagle Lights.
What is Hyperflashing?
Hyperflashing is when your motorcycle’s turn signals blink significantly faster than normal—usually more than 120 flashes per minute (FPM). It occurs when the electrical system detects a in the turn signal circuit.
In other words, your bike thinks a bulb has burned out because your new LEDs are drawing much less power than the original halogen bulbs.
Symptoms of Hyperflashing
- ⚡ Turn signals blink 2x faster than usual
- ⚠️ Dash warning: “Bulb Out” or “Signal Fault”
- 🚫 Turn signals don’t flash at all (stay on solid)
- 🔁 Only one side flashes correctly
- 🧠 On CANBUS bikes: computer errors or signal shutdown
If you recently installed LED turn signals or an integrated tail light, and you’re experiencing these issues, hyperflashing is almost certainly the cause.
Why Hyperflashing Happens
Your motorcycle’s electrical system is designed to monitor the load (electrical resistance) of your turn signal circuit. Stock incandescent bulbs usually draw 21–27 watts of power. LEDs draw as little as 2–5 watts.
This massive drop in power draw tricks the flasher circuit or computer into thinking a bulb is out, triggering a fast flash rate (hyperflash) or a complete shutdown of the signal.
💡 Think of it like this: your bike thinks something is broken—when really, it’s just more efficient.
How to Fix Hyperflashing on a Motorcycle
You have three main options, depending on your bike’s wiring system:
✅ 1. Install Load Resistors
- Simulate original bulb resistance
- Typically 6-ohm, 25-watt ceramic resistors
- Installed inline with each LED signal
- Best for analog bikes (non-CANBUS)
✅ 2. Replace Flasher Relay with an LED-Compatible Relay
- Plug-and-play replacement
- Regulates flash rate regardless of load
- Used on metric bikes (Honda, Yamaha, etc.)
✅ 3. Install a CANBUS Module
- Digitally communicates with your bike’s ECU or BCM
- Prevents warning lights, error codes, and flash irregularities
- Required on modern Harleys (2014+), Indian, and BMW models
💡 Eagle Lights includes the(resistor, relay, or CANBUS decoder) with every turn signal kit.
How to Know Which Fix You Need
| Bike Type | Wiring System | Best Hyperflash Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Older Harleys (pre-2014) | Analog | Load resistors |
| Metric Bikes (Honda, Yamaha, etc.) | Analog | LED flasher relay |
| Modern Harleys (2014+) | CANBUS | CANBUS module |
| Indian Motorcycles | CANBUS or hybrid | CANBUS module |
| Custom Café or Bobber Builds | Custom | Resistors or flasher relay |
Installation Tips
🛠 For Load Resistors:
- Wire in parallel with the LED signal (one per signal)
- Mount to metal—not plastic (they get hot)
- Use zip ties or heat-resistant mounts
🛠 For Flasher Relays:
- Locate stock 2-pin or 3-pin flasher relay
- Unplug and replace with LED-compatible relay
- Test flash rate and secure relay
🛠 For CANBUS Modules:
- Plug into signal circuit via harness or decoder
- Mount inline with stock or aftermarket LED kits
- Reset ignition or battery if needed to clear codes
FAQs
Q: Will hyperflashing damage my bike?
No—but it’s annoying, unsafe, and could cause your signals to shut off under load or fail inspection.
Q: Can I ignore hyperflashing?
You can, but you shouldn’t. It's a visual distraction to other drivers and may trigger safety warnings on modern bikes.
Q: Do I need a resistor for every signal?
Yes. You should install one resistor per signal (typically two per side for front and rear).
Q: What if I still have hyperflash after installing resistors?
Check for loose grounds, incorrect wiring, or consider switching to a flasher relay or CANBUS decoder instead.
Shop Hyperflash Fixes
⚡ Load Resistors (Hyperflash Fix)
