Coolant temp warning light

[jazzzhead]

As my Mk1 2008 CBF1000 has no temperature gauge, I assume that the "temp warning light" will come on if the bike overheats. My question is this:- "should the temp warning light come on when I first switch on the ignition? If not...how do I know if the light is actually working?" Thanks in advance.

[Longside]

Had to look at my bike to see if it was the same, as I hadn’t noticed this, ( only had it 3 years  :087) It also didn’t light up with the other lights. A quick search on here and it is mentioned that that is the way. Apparently the engine has to be extremely hot for the light to show.
Not a full explanation to your question, I’m sure others will help on here, but your bike is as it should be.
Recently my radiator sprang a leak, I only noticed that when I got home, grey spray on the engine, the water in the expansion bottle had been used up. The bike was running fine, not sure how long it had been leaking, so I assume was within its limits. The warning light didn’t show at this point.

[Snave1000]

I’ve been wondering is there a way to fit a temp gauge somehow

[jazzzhead]

Originally Posted by Longside

Had to look at my bike to see if it was the same, as I hadn’t noticed this, ( only had it 3 years  :087) It also didn’t light up with the other lights. A quick search on here and it is mentioned that that is the way. Apparently the engine has to be extremely hot for the light to show.
Not a full explanation to your question, I’m sure others will help on here, but your bike is as it should be.
Recently my radiator sprang a leak, I only noticed that when I got home, grey spray on the engine, the water in the expansion bottle had been used up. The bike was running fine, not sure how long it had been leaking, so I assume was within its limits. The warning light didn’t show at this point.

Thanks for your reply. I guess that "no light" is normal. I think I may look for a way to add an after market coolant temperature indicator just to be extra sure. :-)

[Art]

Generally you won't see coolant temperature warning light come on unless there is a fault with the thermostat, radiator cap or water pump. Also a faulty radiator fan, blocked cooling system or faulty ECT sensor could also set off the warning light. The warning light is not part of the ECU self test process so will not come on with the ignition.

After market coolant temperature gauge kits are available comprising a temperature gauge, sensor wire, sensor and adapter. The adapter is fitted by cutting a section out of the engine to thermostat housing coolant hose and fitting the adapter that accepts the temperature sensor which connects to a LED temperature gauge via the sensor wire. A simple piece of kit but questionable if its of any worth.

[jazzzhead]

Thanks for your comprehensive explanation...I get it now. My issue is that I have never owned "any" water cooled vehicle that did not have a temp gauge...which sort of tells me that it's a good idea. It's also about peace of mind I guess...just feels wrong not having a temp gauge. I would rather get an early warning that something could be wrong...but then again, its a Honda, so not such a worry! 

[Art]

Modern cooling systems are now so efficient and reliable many vehicles are now come without a temperature gauge. First noticed this on the wife's 2012 Vauxhall Corsa, now seen on many other vehicles.