CATEYE KNOWLEDGEBASE :: How can I use a CatEye bicycle computer on a motorcycle or other non-bicycle application?

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How can I use a CatEye bicycle computer on a motorcycle or other non-bicycle application?

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Cat Eye bicycle computers can be installed on motorcycles and other motorized, non-bicycle applications, but there are a few factors to consider.
1. The computer MUST be a wired version, as cordless/wireless computers will not work due to engine interference.
2. The computer must have a long enough wiring kit to run from the lower section of the fork legs up to the handlebar.
3. The computer must be capable of displaying high speeds, and must be capable of being programmed to a motorcycle size tire.
Two Cat Eye models may fit your needs:
Our Enduro 8 model has a reinforced, heavy-duty wire that would be most suitable to motorcycle applications. One drawback to this model is that the wire is only 70 cm, which may not be enough for all motorcycle applications, although for many it is sufficient. The second drawback to this model is that it only registers speeds up to 65.9 mph, which may be sufficient for some motocross/off-road bike applications, but not for street/track bike applications.
Our Astrale 8 model may be a better choice. While it has a thinner, more fragile wire, that wire is 140 cm, which may give you more mounting options on a motorcycle. The main benefit to this model is that it will register speeds up to 185 mph. The only drawback to this model (besides the thinner wire) is that it also has a "cadence" feature (pedaling RPM, which you wouldn't use on a motorcycle), but that cadence sensor wire can be removed (cut off) without compromising the speed sensor wire.
Both models should be able to be calibrated to a motorcycle size tire without any problem. To do this for a motorcycle application, determine calibration # by performing a 'tire roll out' procedure.
To do a tire roll out:
1. Mark a spot on the floor and line up the valve stem.
2. With the usual tire pressure and rider's weight on the bike, roll the tire out one full revolution (when the valve stem comes back around to the floor), and measure the distance on the floor from point-to-point.
This is often best performed parallel to a wall, to ensure the roll out is done in a straight line.
3. Take this number in cm if your computer requires a 3-digit calibration # (or multiply inches by 2.54 for cm), or in mm if your computer requires a 4-digit calibration # (multiply inches by 25.4 for mm).
4. Enter this number in your computer for your wheel circumference.