Sunday 14 April 2013

Review: HealTech GIpro X-type Gear Position Indicator

I personally feel that the Yamaha R6 needs an update soon. It is about time they included an anti-lock braking system (ABS), traction control, and a gear position indicator into the R6 package. Fortunately, there are some aftermarket components out there that we can install to improve the R6.

The HealTech GIpro X-type Gear Position Indicator is probably one of the most popular gear position indicators out there. Mainly because of its simple installation steps; no splicing of wires, just an easy plug and play device.

The connector on the GIpro attaches to your bike's speed sensor. And that is usually found underneath the rider's seat. The GIpro may be easy to install, but there is a catch. If you want to do a clean and neat job, you would need to hide the cable under your fuel tank, and lay it up to your dash where you would place the GIpro display unit.

This is how much the HKL mechanic had to remove.


If you notice the cable running down the outside of the bike, that's the GIpro cable. Just one cable, from connector to the display unit.


I'm a total dimwit when it comes to motorcycle electronics, so I leave it to the experts for installation. If you are feeling brave, you can try following the instructions included.

Installation took about 30 minutes, and programming the GIpro took another 15 minutes. And viola, aftermarket gear position indicator installed.


Do note that because the gear position indicator relies on your speed sensor to tell which gear you are in, it would just display a "-" when your motorcycle is stationary. Through my personal experience, I find that it determines the gear you are in pretty fast, almost instantly.

Here's a video of the GIpro X-type in action.


The price? Well, it's not exactly cheap at SGD$250. But trust me, it's worth it to know that you won't be finding the elusive 7th gear again.

Bonus: I saw this magnificent looking full carbon fiber bodied BMW S1000RR.




Ride safe.

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