H4 bulbs or HID for ST1100?

[dpadair]

Just got a 1999 ST1100. One of the farkles I'd like to do is upgrading the headlights. I don't want to dive into anything complicated right off (no major disassembly).

Couple of questions:

1) Does HID provide a significantly better light than the 60/55W H4 bulbs?

2) Will I lose hi-beams with HID? What about the H4 bulbs? If so, is that really a drawback though?

3) Can HID be modulated? Not sure I want to do that but I'd like to know.

Sorry if this are somewhat ignorant questions. I've been Googling for answers too but this forum usually provides better answers by just asking some questions!

[Darth Vader]

I really can't answer your questions, just wanted to say hello to a fellow ST rider in black :bow1: One advantage you have going for you is the more-farkle-capable alternator. Enjoy your new ride!

[number9]

I recently did the HID install on my ST1100. I have mine setup so that the RH bulb is Lo-beam and the LH bulb is Hi-beam, BUT I have it wired up so that both bulbs are ON when the switch is on Hi-beam. Previous to that I had the Phillips Vision Plus 55/60W bulbs which were a very good improvement over stock and I would recommend this as a cheap and worthwhile upgrade for anyone.

The HID was a little more involved in that you need to remove all the plastic and find a location to mount the ballasts and ignitiors. Other than that, not a big deal. The HID is a BIG improvement over the Phillips bulbs IMO. I like 'em.

HID can't be modulated.

The HID do not have a "true" hi-beam operation. But they can be installed to give hi-beam results. This is a VERY good read on HID for the ST1100 http://johnandbecci.info/Hints/HID.htm

Look in my 2nd webshots album for pics and explinations on how I did my setup.

[STWannaBe]

Number9,

I love the idea of the HID's both on when the high beam switch is on. That, I'm sure, would be bright. I looked at a couple of kits for the HID's, but they are a little out of my price range. I just did the 55/60 SilverStar bulbs with a modulator and you were right, what a great improvement!

I am going to have to wait on the HID's until I get a windfall... Hope it's soon.