I was checking my 2000 sportster to get a inspection and I found the back brake light only works once in a while I by passed the switch and it works everytime I put the hot wire back on the switch and stepped on the brake and 12 volts pass threw the switch I plug in the other wire and the 12 volts goes away. About every 20 times stepping on the brake it does work the front brake works the light everytime Is it just the switch? Thanks

 

On the Softails there is a small micro electrical switch that the hand brake lever lets come out when you squeeze the lever. The foot brake lever has a hydraulic switch that turns it on. Sound like your hydraulic one is sticking or the contacts are burnt. What ever it probably needs replaced. I assume the switch you are referring to is in the hydraulic line like mine.