Generating the voltage needed to ignite the air/fuel mixture.The two main objectives of a motorcycle ignition system are: A skilled technician can test and diagnose ignition system components quickly and reliably. While very reliable, these components can fail, causing a motorcycle to stop running properly. In addition to the CDI box, other components of modern ignition systems include: Essentially, a CDI box controls a motorcycle’s ignition system by starting the ignition and combustion process.Ī pulse of voltage from the motorcycle battery passes through the CDI box to fire up the spark plug.
When it comes to ignition systems, you’ll commonly hear of what’s called a CDI box, or capacitor discharge ignition box. Additionally, these ignition systems have the capacity to advance or retard ignition timingīased on engine demand. Regardless of the voltage type, alternating or direct, these systems trigger the spark plug to fire at precisely timed intervals, allowing the motorcycle to run.
One of the most essential systems in a motorcycle is its ignition system. Not only is it critical to know these individual components, it’s important to understand how they all work together. From suspension systems, to carburetors, to alternators, there’s a lot to know when it comes to working on motorcycles.