Using H4 bulbs in 1998 to 2001 VFR800 - any issues?

I’m contemplating using H4 headlight bulbs in my 1998 VFR800. I see from reading the forums that some have fitted H4 bulbs by trimming the tabs of the standard H4 bulb to fit Honda’s oddball headlight bulb socket. My concern is for the wires, connectors, and switches in the headlight circuit. A standard H4 is rated at 60W/55W, while Honda’s VFR bulb is rated at 45W/45W. A standard H4 will thus pull 33% or 22% more current, depending on whether it’s in high beam or low beam. For those that fitted standard H4 bulbs, especially in hot climates, have you had any issue with melting harnesses?


Thanks.


- Walt

 

No issue for me for over 60000kms.
You only trim off two of the tabs.
Bonus better light as well.

 

I have had them for the past 21000 miles. All good, very bright.
https://www.amazon.com/Philips-X-treme-Vision-Headlight-Bulbs/dp/B00QJWUPC6

 

I don't even trim them off. I just bend the two un-needed ones up with a pair of needle nose. Works just fine, and fits even more snug.

Jose

 

I'm actually surprised that no-one is mentioning the special "shims" or spacers you can get that effectively go into the headlight per the normal tab spacings, but on the outside have regular H4 tab spacing. They make standard H4s a drop-in fitment...

E.g. http://cyclemw.mybigcommerce.com/h4-bulb-adapter-rings-for-honda-motorcycles/

And, no, I'm not affiliated with them.

Had 'em on my last 5th Gen, and I'll be grabbing some for if/when the globes in my current one go. (Assuming it doesn't already have them installed...must check.

 

I have the stainless laser cut adapter rings and they work great.I usually cut the lower tabs off and with the adapter in front,it positions the headlamp correctly although it might be a couple mm back.I recently went with H4/9003 LED lamps and they are super bright and much more efficient than halogens.Went with Autofeels X4 and these can be installed without taking the fairing off.Hopefully can get some pics soon,beam pattern and cutoff is suprisingly good from what I can tell so far.

 

YUP, same here just bend and install. The lock down clip is a PITA as it's done by feel since you can't see it...