Motorcycle Repair: 1987 Honda Shadow security lock and light, honda shadow vt700, goose neck

Question
I have a 1987 Honda Shadow VT700 and when I lock the forks the rear brake light stays on and it drains the battery. Any idea why that happens?

Answer
Hi Roger,

I suspect a short within the wiring, possibly around the triple tree area (goose neck or steering stem area).

When the front end is turned lock to lock, the wiring harness may become pulled by the movement. This may cause chaffing and lead to shorting.

The cause of the problem may be other, too.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively