Ignition switch vs ON OFF switch

[robermv32]

I can't seem to break the habit of ignoring the "On-OFF" switch on my FXSTC. I just never use it.

The manual just says use it to shut off the engine. I just use the ignition switch.

My question is, Should I use the ON-OFF switch and if so, why ?

And secondly, is there a problem with just using the ignition switch to turn off the engine ?

 

[Triple T]

i would think in case of emergency, if you are in habit of hitting the on/off switch to kill the engine..............

 

[glider]

Using the kill switch also lessens the load on the contacts in the ignition switch to reduce arcing and carbon buildup to the points in the ignition switch.

 

[NEWHD74FAN]

I can't seem to break the habit of ignoring the "On-OFF" switch on my FXSTC. I just never use it.

The manual just says use it to shut off the engine. I just use the ignition switch.

My question is, Should I use the ON-OFF switch and if so, why ?

And secondly, is there a problem with just using the ignition switch to turn off the engine ?

Using the engine kill switch is a good habit, so when you need to kill the engine your reaction will be instinctive. As Glider & Hobbit say, it is less stressful on the electrics and the proper sequence ensures Self Test Diagnostics are captured.

 

[robermv32]

I thank all of you for your responses. As usual, I knew the wealth of information from here would fill the gaps left by the "manual". As a result, I'll teach myself to use it. Thanks again.

 

[Lucero62]

one reason it is taught in training is when you use the handlebar kill switch you still have both hands on the handle bars and are still in total control of the machine until it stops running... Say you are idling with the left foot over the gear shift and while reaching for the ignition switch a gust of wind or an ever so slight balance issue occurs and you slip the bike into first... One hand on the handle bars and you could look like a rodeo star coming out of the chute
I know a far fetched extreme example but it could happen... maybe....
Don

 

[BoomerBob]

It's my understanding, on the EFI models anyway, the kill switch shouldn't be used before returning the bike to idle unless it's an emergency. Evidently it can mess with the ECM and make the bike idle high; as in where it was when the kill switch was last used. A restart using the ignition switch corrects it.