Mike’s XS digital Wire controller kit - any feedback?

Hey guys
So, the harness I’ve ordered from Asylum Cycles back in the beginning of Dec. still has not shown up. Basically, I’m at the point where I have to write that off and try something else to wire up the bike
I’m looking at the full kit from Mike’s , the digital one with the bar switches etc.
Has anyone here used it ? If so, what’s your experience?

Bike is almost ready for spring ( well, less wires ….)

And tires next week
Here’s a pic, still have to level and secure the number plate

Thanks for the feedback guys ! I had high hopes for asylum , as I like sending business to independent shops, but sadly , it’s time to move on .

Thanks in advance of any feedback on Mike’s digital harness !

While I don't have first-hand experience with that kit, for $325, it's expensive, doesn't really simplify your wiring (you have to make the rest of the harness) and adds dependency on their components to possible future issues.

https://www.mikesxs.net/blog/web/app/uploads/NECtech_System_1.0.pdf

One of Mike's standard harnesses (~$80) for your model may actually be simpler to install and more easily repaired going forward.

Looks like a solution, looking for a problem to solve.

Ok. Witty yes,

So, your recommendation is what exactly ?

Thanks !

So,
I do a lot of mods to older platforms, so digital tech and new controllers don’t really twist me up too much
Example is my 77 bus with a JDM turbo 2.0 Subaru engine with some pretty serious custom ECM and engine management gear
I’m just looking for feedback from someone who may have used to kit.
I do agree simpler is better and the less single source dependencies you have the better, however , I’m looking at options

Thanks in advance !

Nick

Not sure if the question is.
What digital solution .
Or digital or not digital.

I once worked with excavators .. diesel powered with many hydraulic pumps.
On paper the electronic would give solutions ..But it was an harsh environment Cold / Heat / Rocks falling on the actuators / Hydraulic oil leaking / Vibration So it was at the beginning problematic.

These being old bikes that never had any design intent for sensitive micro electronics. Of an unknown quality
Put it like this
The machine operators and Machine owners was not the same people as the Programming Electronic geeks.
Some had no qlue of staring an Diesel operated Excavator at -30 C or Below. Rattling that little electronic box.

Things has evolved electronics is better. More is known and better knowledge but the XS 650 is the same the same Alternator the same Regulator .Yes those can be replaced and so on Electronics must be used today for engine management / emissions
So everything is possible Depending on what one wants to achieve
Yamaha never could foresee these digital solutions
So
There is a risk that one gets problems installing an expensive solution and gets problems down the road.
But this is true of almost any modification .. Yamaha designers was highly skilled experienced an had strict quality standards back then
Almost everything else is Worse.

If the goal is a standard problem free driver I Would go for the Cheaper more standard solution.
If not .gong for something more " Experimental " yes why not ..some like that and can do it .But in my view it can lead to more
stops and problems. Maybe not the first year or second ..but the third ...

Jan_P said:

Not sure if the question is.
What digital solution .
Or digital or not digital.

I once worked with excavators .. diesel powered with many hydraulic pumps.
On paper the electronic would give solutions ..But it was an harsh environment Cold / Heat / Rocks falling on the actuators / Hydraulic oil leaking / Vibration So it was at the beginning problematic.

These being old bikes that never had any design intent for sensitive micro electronics. Of an unknown quality
Put it like this
The machine operators and Machine owners was not the same people as the Programming Electronic geeks.
Some had no qlue of staring an Diesel operated Excavator at -30 C or Below. Rattling that little electronic box.

Things has evolved electronics is better. More is known and better knowledge but the XS 650 is the same the same Alternator the same Regulator .Yes those can be replaced and so on Electronics must be used today for engine management / emissions
So everything is possible Depending on what one wants to achieve
Yamaha never could foresee these digital solutions
So
There is a risk that one gets problems installing an expensive solution and gets problems down the road.
But this is true of almost any modification .. Yamaha designers was highly skilled experienced an had strict quality standards back then
Almost everything else is Worse.

If the goal is a standard problem free driver I Would go for the Cheaper more standard solution.
If not .gong for something more " Experimental " yes why not ..some like that and can do it .But in my view it can lead to more
stops and problems. Maybe not the first year or second ..but the third ...

Click to expand...

That’s a well thought out presentation! Thanks!
Gives me more to consider

Paleomechanic said:

That’s a well thought out presentation! Thanks!
Gives me more to consider

Click to expand...

Have you considered Motogadget systems?
I used a non ‘blue’ basic one; it works a treat and gives reliable solid state switching, circuit protection and monitoring. Easy to install, and build your harness specific to your needs.

Good looking bike. Any more pics?

Adamc said:

Have you considered Motogadget systems?
I used a non ‘blue’ basic one; it works a treat and gives reliable solid state switching, circuit protection and monitoring. Easy to install, and build your harness specific to your needs.

Click to expand...

I’ll look into that certainly!

JJames said:

Good looking bike. Any more pics?

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Thanks!
It’s still “under construction”. I’m dividing my time between another vw bus build, an old w461 g wagon and the bike lol, mostly triggered by what parts have come in , or, how much of a block of time I have …
So, yes, a few pics I can manage !

Paleomechanic said:

I’ll look into that certainly!

Thanks!
It’s still “under construction”. I’m dividing my time between another vw bus build, an old w461 g wagon and the bike lol, mostly triggered by what parts have come in , or, how much of a block of time I have …
So, yes, a few pics I can manage !

Click to expand...

The amber spot is more than looks. I live along the Gatineau River in West Quebec, we can have some hella foggy commutes on the Hwy. It’s a fun twisty road . But , log trucks and cottagers make it “ interesting “ in low visibility. Will be putting on some 60/40 dirt tires as I live on a dirt road , and all the cool places to go up here are also on dirt roads