Computer fan cooling long term?

topherclaus · March 16th, 2013, 09:05 AM

I've installed the computer fan to my bike with a simple on/off switch. I'm wondering 1) how people have mounted them to the radiator (rubber mounts or direct or..?) 2) How they handle vibration and 3) how they handle water. Obviously you wouldn't be running it in the rain but I can definitely see the windings through a small gap.

berger · March 16th, 2013, 10:02 AM

Computer fans are usually good for a few years if your careful with them. The question is, why would you not run an OEM fan kit on your 06. They are reasonably priced, plug and play, work well, have a thermostat and handle the elements well. The only reason for running computer fans is for the pre 06 bikes. No room with the fuel tank and no thermostat bung in the radiator.

topherclaus · March 16th, 2013, 03:39 PM

Mainly just being a bit tight really. And I was just interested to see what sort of cooling I get out of one. Thanks though. Lets face it, I'll probably just wait until this one gives up and upgrade to the real deal.

Rensho · March 18th, 2013, 06:09 PM

When we ran the specs, an equivalent size comp fan was only 20% fewer FCM than the OEM, at a fair amount less draw. I thought I saw someone run 2 comp fans on the left rad. Those things are so cheap, if one dies, you're out like $5. As long as you're not on some long slow journey in the hot summer, you'd be fine.
You might run a lighted switch off switched power to remind you when it is on.

Motodude · March 19th, 2013, 06:57 AM

I have three '05 Husabergs so mounted three pairs of cheap plastic computer fans a long time ago and they are still going strong. I siliconed them in at the upper corners of the radiators and occassionally they come unglued, but are easily reattached. They suck air from the front so the rad. shrouds were removed. I only flip them on when in traffic or on a trail and have a lighted switch. Super quiet,reliable, efficient and cheap.

berger · March 19th, 2013, 08:21 AM

All computer fans are not the same. Do your due diligence when choosing your fans. Get the highest quality and CFM rating you can find. I ran 2 mounted up to a set of BOSS radiator guards. There are some pictures in my gallery. I think I paid about $15-20 each for my fans.

520pilot · March 21st, 2013, 03:55 AM

I'm with Berger...the OEM kits are not so expensive, I set up a KTM XCW kit on my 550, it was easy, works well and is a genuine item for only about $ 120....good, cheap, easy, no mess no fuss.