New to me '89 softail.
Previous bike was a honda shadow.
Regarding the turn signal operation I am a bit confused, or possibly have a problem.
pressing the left or right turn signal buttons will flash the appropriate turn signals both front and back.
when I release the button it no longer flashes.
I thought it should have a turn signal canceling module, but when I look in the parts catalog, there isn't one listed.
Is this the way they operate normally?
Perhaps someone can explain, would be a big help.
Thanks,
Seadog

 

The '89 Softails did not come with self-cancelling turn signals. That is the normal the operation of the turn signals. In other words, the turn signals will only operate as long as you hold the button down. My '88 Heritage is the same way.

 

I seen some aftermarket turn signal canceler modules on line. will these work?

 

 

^^^ I agree. I'd find it hard to understand why you would have to continue to hold the switch in while completing the turn. That would be unsafe to say the least.

Press it, let it go, make the turn, press it again to cancel. I believe that is how it should work.

 

I agree.
Sometimes faced with the decision of turn signals or no turn signals. I try to use them all the time, but sometimes it's just not possible.... Clutch, front brake, throttle and a damn turn signal that wont stay on through a turn.
who thought this engineering catastrophe up?

I am an electrical engineer, and I could have done better. But so far this has been mu only major complaint.
Maybe its time to design my own.

 

I also have a 1989 Softail and it does the same thing. I think it's supposed to be like that.
Frustrating and unsafe.

 

 

It's not a matter of what YOU believe, That's the way it was designed.
You can add a turn signal module, and change your speedometer to make it do what you want. If you've got the time and money.

 

They were designed when being a motorcycle rider required a level of skill greater than it takes to ride a newer machine with things like ABS, traction control, slipper clutches, gear indicators and self canceling turn signals. Having to hold in a turn signal button is nothing compared to riding an HD with a tank shifter and foot clutch, ah kids...what are you gonna do with them? A little tongue in cheek humor and not meant to be mean or condescending but there's a truth to it. Harley tried to solve a problem simply by having the rider hold the button when they wanted to indicate a turn. This was, in my opinion, the lesser of two evils when it comes to unskilled riders going down the road with their blinker on. Many of which, had cars pull in front of them because the driver believed the rider was turning. To be sure, the car drivers were at fault legally but that doesn't change the fact that an avoidable crash happened at the rider's expense.