Key switch on magneto

[Nomad54]

Has anyone thought of fitting a key switch to the magneto to cut out the ignition. Would it cause any damage to the mag being shorted out in the off position for any length of time. Only thinking to add another layer of security incase of theft.
Tom

[CheeserBeezer]

Yes, It's quite simple. Run an additional wire from the earth connection on the points cover to a switch, maybe behind the toolbox, and leave it earthed out whilst the bike is standing. It won't harm the magneto. However, if anybody wants to ride it off, all they have to do is pull the earth wires off the end of the magneto. I'm advised, by a bike security firm, the best way of protecting your bike is first, a bl@@dy big lock, then a tracker. Now that the bikes are less valuable, it may be less of an issue.

[Nomad54]

Cheers for that, I have already fitted a key switch which switches the power for the lights/horn off and has the facility to short the mag out in the off position. As for stealing the bike there are not many of us old fuds still around that know what to do to get a mag bike running.
Tom