Suggestions for the 2016 RX3

[detours]

I'm very happy with my RX3, but there are a few things I'd like to see in next year's model.


Upgrade the headlamp to 55 W.
Replace the 'speed' decal with 'cyclone' or 'RX3'.
Improve front brake performance.
Make the high beam switch more robust.
Make speedometer less optimistic.
One piece (front and pillion) seat.
D-Ring helmet lock under seat (a simple post the seat locks over).
Improve visibility of left rear turn signal (partly hidden by luggage).
Add 3 blinks to the brake light before going solid.
Quieter exhaust.

[SpudRider]

That is an excellent list. :tup:

I would like to see most, if not all of those improvements, myself. Fortunately, many of the modifications on the list can be done by the individual owner.

[detours]

True, and everyone customizes their bike anyway to get it just right. But I think these would be welcome improvements :tup:

[pete]

Letter to Mr Zongshen.....
Don't let yer product be rebranded by evey importer that want's to put there name on it...
have pride in what yer make.....

(maybe yer trying to distance yerself from the product..)










..

[3banger]

I think it would change cost but a wide range gear box. But I figure the Zong 250 motor is cheap because they make a zillion of them exactly the same.

[AZRider]

May I suggest, a better seat?

[Weldangrind]

I recommend a 400 engine.

[SpudRider]

My first request would be a quality shock absorber. Next, I would request forks with greater travel. After the suspension was improved, I would request a 400cc engine. I also think Zongshen should equip the excellent headlight with a metal reflector. ;)

[Louis Angel]

Better yet, have them build a RX4.
RX3: Keep it just the way it is (except FIX the speedometer!) now and under $3500 out the door.

RX4 with a 400cc parallel twin 8 valve DOHC EFI water cooled engine,
6 speed transmission,
Fully adjustable front & Rear shocks so the owner can tailor the ride to their
own individual taste, and all the upgraded suggestions mentioned.
And Retail it for just under $5000 out the door. :)

Just my $0.02

[Jay In Milpitas]

It's trivial, I know, but I'd like to see the top elbow on the left radiator have a different angle (just a few degrees) to allow easier access to the mount bolt for valve adjustment access.

Also a larger diameter rear oil filler hole. Same size as the forward one would be nice. I'd use that one if the exhaust pipe didn't restrict access.

A drain point in the bottom of each of the forks to facilitate changing/draining would be useful.

[detours]

Better yet, have them build a RX4.
RX3: Keep it just the way it is (except FIX the speedometer!) now and under $3500 out the door.

RX4 with a 400cc parallel twin 8 valve DOHC EFI water cooled engine,
6 speed transmission,
Fully adjustable front & Rear shocks so the owner can tailor the ride to their
own individual taste, and all the upgraded suggestions mentioned.
And Retail it for just under $5000 out the door. :)

Just my $0.02

I agree. Improve the RX3 but leave it a 250. Then bring out a 400cc RX4 and keep it as close to 400 lbs as possible.

[SpudRider]

In a perfect world, I would love to see the RX3 with a 400cc engine. However, I'm confident Zongshen will keep the RX3 a 250cc motorcycle. ;) Zongshen has a huge domestic market in China, and an extensive market throughout the third world. In those markets a 250cc bike is considered a large motorcycle. Zongshen is selling a lot of RX3 motorcycles throughout the world, and has little, to no incentive, to change a winning formula with the RX3. I hope Zongshen continues to refine the current RX3, starting with a better suspension. :tup:

[MattyBoy1976]

Anybody read the CSC blog today? Joe talks about using different oil in the front shocks on his RX3, and revealed that a new rear shock will soon be available. It's almost like he reads this forum...or something!

Anyway, I'm kind of glad that I'm still several months out, at least, from ordering mine...CSC gets to make all of the changes that you guys are asking for, and I'll reap the benefits!:thanks:

[SpudRider]

Anybody read the CSC blog today? Joe talks about using different oil in the front shocks on his RX3, and revealed that a new rear shock will soon be available. It's almost like he reads this forum...or something!

Anyway, I'm kind of glad that I'm still several months out, at least, from ordering mine...CSC gets to make all of the changes that you guys are asking for, and I'll reap the benefits!:thanks:

Yes, I reported the benefits of switching to 10W fork oil in the following thread on May 8. ;)

http://www.chinariders.net/showthread.php?t=14672

I eagerly await the arrival of the new shock absorber. :) I trust Ryan, and others, will give it a good test before offering it for sale. Needless to say, I am also very willing to test it for them, myself. ;)

[Huck369]

One to add to the list....some UV protection in the paint.....I hadn't noticed it as its a gradual thing, but Chuck (my local riding buddy that also bought one) we had them shipped here together, but I've been riding mine daily, he has about 400 miles on his (about half of that we put on this weekend) and my RX-3 is practically Yellow, compared to the Orange on his that has been setting in his garage.....they were the exact same shade when they arrived, but it is night and day difference now.

I'll probably end up repainting mine this winter, but I am disappointed that my 2015 Motorcycle is faded so much in so little time...I mean it's still 2015 !

Yes, I know Reds and Orange are some of the worst colors to fade, but nothing should fade that fast.

I'm interested in Spuds bike, I'd like to see a picture of the tank if he takes the seat off, to see the amount of fade where the seat covers the tank.

Anyway, once I repaint mine (with quality paint) I'll probably do a custom color so it'll stand out a little.

[Adjuster]

Paint fading this quickly would need to be brought to the attention o CSC and Zongshen.


/

[NoVa Rider]

my RX-3 is practically Yellow, compared to the Orange on his that has been setting in his garage.....they were the exact same shade when they arrived, but it is night and day difference now.


Huck, is the fading the same on the plastics as it is on the tank itself? Just curious. In any case, shouldn't be happening this fast!

[Huck369]

All the colored parts are painted, none of it is molded in color, but yes, all the Orange parts are fading.

As it doesn't in any way affect the operation of the bike, I don't know that I'd feel like it should be a warrantied deal.

I'll just get it re-painted when I get a chance during the winter, when I don't ride as much (plus I have other bikes to ride) And I'll be using quality UV resistant paint/clear-coat.

[SpudRider]

Thanks for the warning, Huck. ;) I removed my fuel tank two days ago when I checked, and adjusted my valve lash. I have about 8,250 miles on the odometer, but I didn't have any paint fading where the saddle covers the fuel tank. I believe the very top of the fuel tank might be fading a little lighter in color, but it is not very pronounced.

I think it might be prudent for some of us to purchase some clear coat, spray paint with ultraviolet protection. ;) Does anyone have any recommendations?

http://www.krylon.com/products/uvresistant-clear-coating/

[SpudRider]

All the colored parts are painted, none of it is molded in color, but yes, all the Orange parts are fading.

As it doesn't in any way affect the operation of the bike, I don't know that I'd feel like it should be a warrantied deal.

I'll just get it re-painted when I get a chance during the winter, when I don't ride as much (plus I have other bikes to ride) And I'll be using quality UV resistant paint/clear-coat.

The color is molded into all of the black plastic parts. Plastic parts of any other color are painted over the black plastic.

You might have received a fuel tank with bad paint, Huck. If no one else is having this problem, I think your paint job should be covered under warranty, and you should get a new fuel tank. ;)

[Darkrider]

Heres a suggestion....make the RX3 available in Canada! lol

[Weldangrind]

Heres a suggestion....make the RX3 available in Canada! lol

Apparently that's in the works, but I'm not holding my breath that it will be affordable like in the U.S.

[Darkrider]

Apparently that's in the works, but I'm not holding my breath that it will be affordable like in the U.S.

Guess its one of those things that we will believe it when we see it eh?

[Weldangrind]

Excellent use of the word "eh", my fellow Canadian. :D

[Jay In Milpitas]

One to add to the list....some UV protection in the paint.....I hadn't noticed it as its a gradual thing, but Chuck (my local riding buddy that also bought one) we had them shipped here together, but I've been riding mine daily, he has about 400 miles on his (about half of that we put on this weekend) and my RX-3 is practically Yellow, compared to the Orange on his that has been setting in his garage.....they were the exact same shade when they arrived, but it is night and day difference now.

I'll probably end up repainting mine this winter, but I am disappointed that my 2015 Motorcycle is faded so much in so little time...I mean it's still 2015 !

Yes, I know Reds and Orange are some of the worst colors to fade, but nothing should fade that fast.

I'm interested in Spuds bike, I'd like to see a picture of the tank if he takes the seat off, to see the amount of fade where the seat covers the tank.

Anyway, once I repaint mine (with quality paint) I'll probably do a custom color so it'll stand out a little.

Huck, did you smear some wax on the paint as the owners manual recommends? Which reminds me to pick up some new wax smearers this weekend.

[SpudRider]

Guess its one of those things that we will believe it when we see it eh?

Excellent use of the word "eh", my fellow Canadian. :D

Weld,

After listening to your brother-in-law, Tom, during our trip to Bonneville Speed Week, I have also acquired the bilingual ability to employ the Canadian "eh." :)

:lol:

[SpudRider]

Huck, did you smear some wax on the paint as the owners manual recommends? Which reminds me to pick up some new wax smearers this weekend.

Egads! I need to apply some wax to my fuel tank. ;) Thanks for reminding us of this task, Jay. :)

[Huck369]

Huck, did you smear some wax on the paint as the owners manual recommends? Which reminds me to pick up some new wax smearers this weekend.

Yes, I have waxed all the painted parts, but wax won't stop UV fade like this...
And Spud, it's not just my tank, all the Orange painted parts are fading, and I want to be sure this isn't normal, so No one else is seeing any fading on their Orange RX-3?

If the owners or Orange RX-3's would Pull the seat back and check the paint under the edge of the seat and see if there is a difference, if NO ONE else is having this issue, then I will contact CSC about replacement painted parts, but if this is common, I don't really see this as a Warranted item, as it doesn't affect the operation of the motorcycle, and I'll live with it (or re-paint it with good paint)

[Darkrider]

Excellent use of the word "eh", my fellow Canadian. :D

Thanks eh?

Weld,

After listening to your brother-in-law, Tom, during our trip to Bonneville Speed Week, I have also acquired the bilingual ability to employ the Canadian "eh." :)

:lol:

Take off you hoser eh? (just more canadian slang for ya spud, look up Bob and Doug McKenzie sometime lol)

[Huck369]

Thought I'd post a pic of the fade present on my Orange RX-3

The picture doesn't show it as much as it shows in real life, but is noticeable in the pic.

Seems excessive for a 4 month old bike....

[SpudRider]

Yes, I have waxed all the painted parts, but wax won't stop UV fade like this...
And Spud, it's not just my tank, all the Orange painted parts are fading, and I want to be sure this isn't normal, so No one else is seeing any fading on their Orange RX-3?

If the owners or Orange RX-3's would Pull the seat back and check the paint under the edge of the seat and see if there is a difference, if NO ONE else is having this issue, then I will contact CSC about replacement painted parts, but if this is common, I don't really see this as a Warranted item, as it doesn't affect the operation of the motorcycle, and I'll live with it (or re-paint it with good paint)

No, I haven't noticed fading of any of the orange painted parts, either. :shrug: However, I won't be surprised if the painted plastic fades. ;)

I will remove my saddle today, and more closely examine the fuel tank for faded paint. ;)

[SpudRider]

Thanks eh?



Take off you hoser eh? (just more canadian slang for ya spud, look up Bob and Doug McKenzie sometime lol)

I remember the McKenzie brothers well. ;)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0pPRaD6TKLc

[detours]

Thought I'd post a pic of the fade present on my Orange RX-3

The picture doesn't show it as much as it shows in real life, but is noticeable in the pic.

Seems excessive for a 4 month old bike....

Wow, it's noticeable to me. I'll have to check my red one. Mine's garaged, but it had 1500 miles in the sun so far.

[SpudRider]

I adjusted the valve lash several days ago, and I noticed a definite fading of the orange paint on the fuel tank of my RX3. Please do compare the top of your fuel tank with the areas protected by the side covers. ;)

[SpudRider]

I think the 2016 models should have UV resistant paint for the fuel tanks. :)

[Huck369]

I think the 2016 models should have UV resistant paint for the fuel tanks. :)

Agreed...... :)

[Lee R]

Damn I just ordered "Fast Fade" Orange as well.

I'll try some UV inhibiting wax. What does a respray cost on some panels and a tank? I'd actually prefer a Yellow bike...........wait this may be working in my favor!

[SpudRider]

The extra speed of our 'fast fade orange' motorcycles produces a doppler shift in the wavelength of ultraviolet radiation, which results in accelerated paint fading. ;)

I think I am going to paint the fuel tank myself, with the following spray paint. I think Sunset Pearl is a good match for RX3 Orange. :)

http://www.66autocolor.com/House-of-Kolor-Spray-Paint-Sunset-Pearl-PBC31-p/hok-spm-pbc31.htm

http://www.66autocolor.com/Spray-Max-2K-Clear-coat-Aerosol-3680061-p/spm-3680061.htm

http://www.houseofkolor.com/images/speedshapes/PBC31.jpg

Of course, one could choose any custom color he wanted. ;)

http://www.houseofkolor.com/speedshapes/speedshapes_shimrin.jsp

As with Microsoft software, 'Fast Fade Orange' is not a 'bug,' it's a feature.

:hehe:

[detours]

I can't see any fading under the seat, but I'll check under the body panels next time I open up the bike. I have 2500 miles in the hot Colorado sun, but I store it in the garage, so hopefully that will keep it to a slow fade. Time will tell!

[SpudRider]

I can't see any fading under the seat, but I'll check under the body panels next time I open up the bike. I have 2500 miles in the hot Colorado sun, but I store it in the garage, so hopefully that will keep it to a slow fade. Time will tell!

Thank you. :)

I haven't noticed any paint fading at the junction with the saddle. However, I can notice the paint fading at the top of the fuel tank when I compare it to the areas of the fuel tank protected by the side covers. ;)

[Riceburner]

Huck369, I think I mentioned some where here that my orange has faded very fast, three months. I didn't really notice it at first but then when I was taking the panels off to have some accent done I really saw the fade. The tank, and all the painted parts, wasn't going to worry about it but the new painted parts really showed the difference and so I took the all the panels and tank to be repainted.

I also had all the crash bars repainted, some of the weld spots were beginning to rust, especially the bolt together section of the lower and upper crash bar. Had the area's treated, filled and painted. Not going to be able to stop the rust here where I live, can only hope to slow it down.

Hopefully I'll be able to get some pic's up this weekend or early next week.

[Kostandino]

A new-upgraded 2016 model is essential to come out in the next months.
The competition will get stiffer and tougher: KTM Adventure 390cc, Suzuki G-Strom 250cc, Kawasaki Versys 250cc are on the way to production, and probably will be released before summer of 2016..
That would mean more fierce opponents for Zongshen. So far, the brand has virtually no-contenders for the low-mid segment of the adv/dual/on-off category. The Honda CB500X in not an adv bike at all, it is just a MARKETING trick.
Thus, the Zongshen MUST upgrade some vital elements of its adv bike. Because, despite the fact it is a good bike, most can comfirm that there are elements that prevent it from being a great bike. Some minor adjustments, but still reasons to look elsewhere.. My proposals are:
19" front-17" rear rims as STOCK options.
Better braking system (maybe lager diam in front rotor?)
Better seat
Wider handlebar for better control (maybe similar shape with Kawasaki KLE500?)
Stronger headlights (not just replacing the bulb, but equip the reflector with metalic one)
Better, longer, fully adjustable suspension (its an adv bike after all) Even my Vstrom has more option in travel and stiffness..-
Fix that speedo/odo/fuel guage at last! Riders NEED an accurate data about fuel at least. We venture in the wild, and need to know the data correctly.
Some aftermarket extras should be nice to see. Maybe they already are out, but hard to find: Smoked windshield, fully-protect handguards, engine guard-plates, luggage trays for other than tourfella boxes, more color options (dark gray, black, dark green, maybe camo), double stand, etc..
Plus.. about the fuel pump wet system.. so, what IF the fuel tanks gets really empty? I mean, 100% empty? ..
I sure there are more suggestions, and if Zongshen decides to make some mods, that could mean a slight increase in price, but that would be nothing compared to $$$ payments for fixing issues and mods by the customer..
Agree??

[dave92029]

I sure there are more suggestions, and if Zongshen decides to make some mods, that could mean a slight increase in price, but that would be nothing compared to $$$ payments for fixing issues and mods by the customer..
Agree??

NO I do not agree.

I can only comment on the USA version sold by CSC. There are those that suggest Zongshen should do this and that to "improve, and make the RX3 more competitive".

My RX3 has greatly exceeded my expectations based on quality, attention to detail, all at a very competitive price point. The key element is Price Point.

Yes, you can buy a KTM, BMW, Ducati, etc, etc that do some things "better" but, Not at this Price Point. In the USA the RX3 is sold with the understanding that the Rider will perform maintenance and service.

I presumed, that since I am responsible for maintenance and service, I am also responsible to upgrade and modify the bike to fit my specific needs. I like buying a bike at this price point and letting me choose what modifications have value for me.

This forum is full of reports on how the base bike has been modified.

The RX3 is a dressed up 250cc bike at a very low price point. Judge it based on what it is, a good starting point.

[Kostandino]

NO I do not agree.

I can only comment on the USA version sold by CSC. There are those that suggest Zongshen should do this and that to "improve, and make the RX3 more competitive".

My RX3 has greatly exceeded my expectations based on quality, attention to detail, all at a very competitive price point. The key element is Price Point.

Yes, you can buy a KTM, BMW, Ducati, etc, etc that do some things "better" but, Not at this Price Point. In the USA the RX3 is sold with the understanding that the Rider will perform maintenance and service.

I presumed, that since I am responsible for maintenance and service, I am also responsible to upgrade and modify the bike to fit my specific needs. I like buying a bike at this price point and letting me choose what modifications have value for me.

This forum is full of reports on how the base bike has been modified.

The RX3 is a dressed up 250cc bike at a very low price point. Judge it based on what it is, a good starting point.
=============================================
Wise consideration, agree with the "Price point", BUT: I do not neglect what CSC does (actually, they are the best importers as Ive heard off.). The focus on my suggestion, is of how to obtain a REAL adventure bike, without any concerns!! I know the RX3 is rigid, tough, serves well, reliable, and the newer models fault-free (some earlier version were bit of dissapointment to ownders -check UKs 'Honley RXE early models -but I bet that happens with any newly lauched product-). Wouldnt it a 'real-deal' to obtain a leader adv bike at a price tag below $4,000 with all the requirements the special type of this category asks for? Maybe I am used to Honda, BMW, KTM and Suzuki adv-like bikes, but I really think the RX3 could stand on its own against the giant-brands, should some of those upgrades occured..
It is a different element to SELF-MAINTAIN the bike to SEARCH-HOW-TO-IMPROVE the bike! I am not totally focused on customizing the bike, but rather to improve its capabilities.
Because it is a good, honest and 'loyal' bike, and it deserves some star-dust on it)
I am experienced rider of KTM, Honda, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Yamaha and Aprilia dual/on-off/adv tpe bikes..
And my test-ride of RX3 gave me a positive, promising, calm feeling!
So, MY notion, experience and understanding suggests those improvements..
A notice: As a Fireman in a wild-land as Corfu outback and mountain region is, I can really tell the difference that even a slight mod can offer to a bike/vehicle is that matter..
Maybe we have different perspective and goals from the bike, but even Zongshen would attract and gather extra demand on its model from owners of the big-branded models..

[Kostandino]

I read in CSC blog site, that the guys from CSC are working on the 2016 model of RX3..
Did finally ZS openee their ears to the owner voices and will make the suggestions a reality???

[detours]

I haven't heard any details about the 2016 RX3, but I know Zongshen worked closely with CSC and made significant changes/upgrades to the 2015 model for the US release. Some of these changes have already made it to other markets, like the UK.

[SpudRider]

I was told the only change for 2016 was a few more color choices. ;)

[detours]

I hope they change the Speed decals to Cyclone or a nice graphic design. 'Speed' is just a little tacky, imo. This bike deserves better and that should be a simple change. Other markets get custom decals, so the production line is already set up for it.

[Darkrider]

I was told the only change for 2016 was a few more color choices. ;)

and the fact that its now available in Canada eh?

[detours]

Actually, that reminds me of one change ... The headlight was modified to meet Canadian regulations and the same headlight is coming to the US as well.

[SpudRider]

and the fact that its now available in Canada eh?

Actually, that reminds me of one change ... The headlight was modified to meet Canadian regulations and the same headlight is coming to the US as well.

That's true, eh? :)

[Weldangrind]

That's true, eh? :)

Excellent use of 'eh', my friend.

[dpl096]

totally agree ! Shoot I would much rather see "RX3" or the ZongShen emblem decal than the stock "speed". Any members here natural born graphic artist hobbyist ? ? maybe as a group we could come up with a fantastic decal ourselves! I hope they change the Speed decals to Cyclone or a nice graphic design. 'Speed' is just a little tacky, imo. This bike deserves better and that should be a simple change. Other markets get custom decals, so the production line is already set up for it.

[SpudRider]

Excellent use of 'eh', my friend.

Thank you. :D

[keithmaine]

Any idea of the colors that will be offered?

an od green would be good to match the Ural once she is done

[SpudRider]

I don't know if the colors have been finalized, yet. However, an email or phone call to CSC will yield the definitive answer, and you can also express your choice of colors. :)

[Kostandino]

Was in hope that ZS would eventually upgrade the RX3 with:
1) 19"/17" tubeless
2) Better headlight (maybe change reflector material)
3) Larger, stronger brake rotors (especially the front one)
4) Fully adjustable suspension and spring loads
5) Wider handlebars
6) Precise readings in fuel capacity levels and speedo/odo
7) Some small bits n coins to look over..
--
And those changes should scale up the RX3 from a 'good bike' to a 'GREAT bike
Because the bike is good, and it has the potential to become a league champ!
Next year, the Suzuki Vstrom 250cc, KTM Adventure 390, Kawasaki Versys 250 and Honda CR250 Rally will be on the market..
Stiff, tough competition for ZS..
If the guys in the office listen to riders report, well, I bet they can make some good changes)
We all love the RX3.. fingers crossed))

[keithmaine]

I don't know if the colors have been finalized, yet. However, an email or phone call to CSC will yield the definitive answer, and you can also express your choice of colors. :)

The answer is no changes and adding a Silver color option

[Danimal]

weld a couple of threaded bosses on the swingarm to allow spools to be mounted. Simple, cheap, and everyone has a swingarm stand already right?

[Lee R]

All I'm really left wanting for is a better front brake right now. I have the redesigned *Canadian* light and it's "ok" at night.

Front brake is pretty weak on this bike though.

Removing the speed decal wouldn't hurt and adding either Zongshen or something else would be nice. They should be proud of the bike and CSC is doing an outstanding job as an importer.

[SpudRider]

All I'm really left wanting for is a better front brake right now. I have the redesigned *Canadian* light and it's "ok" at night.

Front brake is pretty weak on this bike though.

Removing the speed decal wouldn't hurt and adding either Zongshen or something else would be nice. They should be proud of the bike and CSC is doing an outstanding job as an importer.

Your 'ok' headlight will be excellent if you replace the HS1 bulb with a 55W/60 H4 bulb. :) Try it, and see if you don't like it. ;)

I was told CSC is working to get a better, front brake pad manufactured by DP, in the United Kingdom.

http://www.dp-brakes.com/

[Kostandino]

so, let's -all of us- make a petition to ZS in order to built the 2016 model with upgraded specs, and turn a 'good bike' into a 'GREAT bike' )
:)

[Lee R]

Your 'ok' headlight will be excellent if you replace the HS1 bulb with a 55W/60 H4 bulb. :) Try it, and see if you don't like it. ;)

I was told CSC is working to get a better, front brake pad manufactured by DP, in the United Kingdom.

http://www.dp-brakes.com/

Spud I'm going to follow your advice and install one this weekend. I'm happy to hear about the pads too. Fixing that front break will tie up really the only weak point on the bike right now for me. I hop on the Stelvio and do a "oh yeah Brembos" when I grab the brakes lol.

[SpudRider]

Spud I'm going to follow your advice and install one this weekend. I'm happy to hear about the pads too. Fixing that front break will tie up really the only weak point on the bike right now for me. I hop on the Stelvio and do a "oh yeah Brembos" when I grab the brakes lol.

Good for you. :) I'm sure you will be very pleasantly surprised how well the RX3 headlight works with a 55W/60 H4 bulb. ;) However, here are two caveats. ;)

1) The H4 bulbs have two location tabs which project from the mounting plate. Flatten these tabs, or twist them off with a pair of pliers. Otherwise, you risk cracking the plastic reflector when you lock the bulb into the headlight with the plastic retainer. ;)

2) If you decide to keep the H4 bulb, and I'm sure you will, you need to inspect the plastic reflector regularly, to make sure it is not damaged by the higher heat. ;) I cut a ventilation hole in the back of my headlight to dissipate the extra heat.

[Lee R]

Good for you. :) I'm sure you will be very pleasantly surprised how well the RX3 headlight works with a 55W/60 H4 bulb. ;) However, here are two caveats. ;)

1) The H4 bulbs have two location tabs which project from the mounting plate. Flatten these tabs, or twist them off with a pair of pliers. Otherwise, you risk cracking the plastic reflector when you lock the bulb into the headlight with the plastic retainer. ;)

2) If you decide to keep the H4 bulb, and I'm sure you will, you need to inspect the plastic reflector regularly, to make sure it is not damaged by the higher heat. ;) I cut a ventilation hole in the back of my headlight to dissipate the extra heat.


Great advice Spud. I'll do this over the weekend and give some data on the temperatures as I have an IR thermometer I can check them with. Should be interesting to see the operating temp of both. Hopefully I don't go blind doing this haha.

I'll monitor the headlight housing and cut vents if needed. The newer reflector works ok for having a 35w bulb in it!