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A relay is essentially an electromagnetic switch. It lets you connect the lights directly to the battery and therefore not run throught bikes electrics but still be switched. Essentially, you connect one pole of the relay to the battery hot, one to the lights and one to a power source that is hot with the key on. When you turn on the key, it closes the relay and connects the lights directly to the battery. The relay is the only thing drawing power through the bikes electrical system and that draw is tiny. Relays are available at most auto parts stores and will come with a diagram on how to wire them, but if you are unfamiliar with wiring electrical accessories you might want to enlist the help of a friend.
A relay is essentially an electromagnetic switch. It lets you connect the lights directly to the battery and therefore not run throught bikes electrics but still be switched. Essentially, you connect one pole of the relay to the battery hot, one to the lights and one to a power source that is hot with the key on. When you turn on the key, it closes the relay and connects the lights directly to the battery. The relay is the only thing drawing power through the bikes electrical system and that draw is tiny. Relays are available at most auto parts stores and will come with a diagram on how to wire them, but if you are unfamiliar with wiring electrical accessories you might want to enlist the help of a friend.