G650X Electrical Misc FAQ

Please read the Disclaimer before attempting any work in this FAQ.
Last Updated: 1 January 2008, by Winter #1935

• Introduction
• General Questions
  • What is the size / output of the alternator on the G650X models?
  • Can I increase the alternator output on my G650X?
  • Can I use the G650X dash/instruments unit on a F650GS/Dakar/CS?
  • When I turn the ignition on, the display shows "18" in large numbers and small text "WHEELS". What does this mean?
  • My speedo is inaccurate, can I change it?
  • How do I change my speedo from mph to kph (or back)?

For other related FAQs:

• Fuel Injection FAQ
• GS Electrical Misc FAQ

The electrical system on the G650X models is likely very similar to that on the F650 Fuel Injected models. It uses almost the exact same engine, uses the BMS-C2 (see the GS Fuel Injection FAQ) so it makes sense to use a similar setup. However, there are a few changes already known:

• The G650X uses a more "digital" dash.
• The wiring harness for the G650X is most likely different.

If anyone has information on the G650X dash, it would be useful. For example - what are the connectors like? Can it be swapped with a F650GS dash?

What is the size / output of the alternator on the G650X models?

• 280 Watts.
• The GS/Dakar/CS has a 400 Watt output, and the Classic F650 has a 280 Watt output. The output was reduced on the G650X models in order to reduce weight.

Can I increase the alternater output on my G650X?

• Probably not. The redesigned Rotax 654 engine in your G650X is lighter than the one found in the GS/Dakar/CS - and part of this weight loss was in the alternator.
• Try somewhere like Electrosport who made upgrades for the Classic alternator.

Can I use the G650X dash/instruments unit on a F650GS/Dakar/CS?

• Unknown. The dash on the G650X is a much smaller, more digital looking unit. Given the F650 GS/Dakar/CS dual spark models have the same ECU (BMS-C II), it may be possible to remove the F650 dash unit and install a smaller (and probably lighter) dash unit.

When I turn the ignition on, the display shows "18" in large numbers and small text "WHEELS". What does this mean?

• The display reading " 18 WHEEL" followed by a smaller code below indicates the computer program installed for that bike. There are at least two maybe 3 for telling the on board brain what wheel size (rear) to use when calculating 'implausible wheel spin rates" (p 52 manual) and other ABS diagnostics. It is my understanding that it also differentiates the fuel mapping for your model as opposed to the other models, etc...

My speedo is inaccurate, can I change it?

Thanks to MaxKool on AdvRider

• So to all of us who want to adjust their wheel size in the speedo, watch this.
  1. Remove the seat, and the right hand side panel.
  2. Remove the ignition key if you haven't already done so (really important!!).
  3. Unbolt the negative lead of the battery.
  4. On the dash, hold down the "set" button and connect the battery.
  5. Keep holding down the "set" key while the dash starts to count down from 15 to 1(the bike will not explode).
  6. Next the dash is going to toggle between three rear wheel size choices. You can let go of the "set" button.
  7. When the dash shows you the preferred rear wheel size press "mode".
  8. Done. Now the new wheel circumference is set.
• (note, this is a mutliple choice question, three options. You don't get to set the wheel size on a per mm base)
• If by any accident you've chosen the wrong wheel size, insert the ignition key once into the ignition lock, and remove it again. Remove the battery terminal and start all over again.
• Once satisfied, Connect the battery solidly, reinstall the side panel and the seat

How do I change my speedo from mph to kph (or back)?

1. disconnect battery
2. turn ignition on
3. hold down mode key
4. keep mode key pressed and connect battery power
5. digital display will go through one digital reading
6. the next two readings (on mine) were kmh and then mph, when you see the new reading you want, release mode key.