For 2019 Harley-Davidson Trike owners looking to enhance their ride with aftermarket accessories, understanding your bike’s electrical system is crucial. The On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) connector plays a vital role in modern motorcycles, including the 2019 Harley Trike. This article delves into how you can leverage the OBD2 connector on your 2019 Harley Trike using the innovative Hex ezCAN accessory controller to seamlessly integrate and manage your favorite add-ons.
Modern Harley-Davidson Trikes, like the 2019 models, are equipped with sophisticated electronics and a Controller Area Network (CAN bus) system. This system allows various components of the motorcycle to communicate with each other. The OBD2 connector, while primarily designed for diagnostics, also provides a gateway to tap into this CAN bus network for intelligent accessory integration. Enter the Hex ezCAN, a powerful accessory controller designed to work harmoniously with your 2019 Harley Trike’s existing systems.
What is an Accessory Controller and Why for Your 2019 Harley Trike?
An accessory controller, like the Hex ezCAN, is essentially a smart power distribution module. It simplifies the often complex process of adding electrical accessories to your motorcycle. Traditionally, installing accessories like auxiliary lights, aftermarket horns, or even heated gear on a 2019 Harley Trike would involve splicing into existing wires, adding extra switches, and potentially risking your bike’s electrical system and warranty.
The ezCAN revolutionizes this process. It connects directly to your 2019 Harley Trike’s system, often via the diagnostic connector which, for many models, utilizes an OBD2 standard or similar interface. Instead of directly wiring to battery and cutting into factory harnesses, the ezCAN intelligently interprets signals from your bike’s CAN bus. This means you can control new accessories using your Harley Trike’s original handlebar controls – no need for extra switches cluttering your handlebars.
Image showing the Hex ezCAN software interface, displaying accessory options for customization, emphasizing user-friendly control over connected devices.
Key Advantages of Using Hex ezCAN on a 2019 Harley Trike
- Simplified Installation: Forget about wire splicing and complicated wiring diagrams. The ezCAN plugs into your 2019 Harley Trike’s diagnostic port (related to the OBD2 connector), making installation cleaner and less invasive.
- Integrated Control: Utilize your Harley Trike’s existing switches and controls to manage your accessories. Control auxiliary lights, horns, and more directly from your handlebar switches.
- Safety and Protection: Each output channel on the ezCAN is individually fused and protected against short circuits and overloading. This safeguards your 2019 Harley Trike’s sensitive electrical system.
- Warranty Preservation: Since no original wiring is cut or modified, using an ezCAN generally does not void your Harley-Davidson warranty.
- Enhanced Functionality: Unlock advanced features like flashing auxiliary lights with your horn, modulating brake lights for increased visibility, and dimming auxiliary lights for daytime and nighttime riding.
- Software Customization: The ezCAN is configured via user-friendly software (compatible with Windows PC and Mac). This allows you to tailor the function of each output channel to your specific accessory and riding needs.
Understanding the OBD2 Connector and ezCAN Connection for 2019 Harley Trikes
While the term OBD2 is commonly associated with automotive diagnostics, modern motorcycles, including 2019 Harley Trikes, often utilize similar diagnostic connectors and protocols. The Hex ezCAN is designed to interface with this diagnostic port. It’s important to note that the ezCAN isn’t primarily for reading engine diagnostic codes like a typical OBD2 scanner. Instead, it uses the data stream available through this connector to intelligently control accessories.
The connection to the diagnostic port (often near the OBD2 standard) allows the ezCAN to “listen” to the CAN bus data. When you operate your Harley Trike’s standard controls – like turning on the high beam, activating the horn, or applying the brakes – the ezCAN detects these signals on the CAN bus and activates the corresponding accessory outputs according to your software configuration.
Screenshot of the ezCAN software showing output channel assignment, demonstrating the ability to customize each channel’s function and behavior for different accessories.
Common Accessories to Enhance Your 2019 Harley Trike with ezCAN
The versatility of the Hex ezCAN opens up a wide range of accessory possibilities for your 2019 Harley Trike:
- Auxiliary LED Lights: Dramatically improve visibility with independently controlled auxiliary driving lights, fog lights, or spot lights. Configure them to dim with low beam, strobe with the horn, or flash as turn signals.
- Louder Horns: Upgrade your Harley Trike’s horn for increased audibility in traffic. The ezCAN ensures seamless integration and proper power delivery to aftermarket horns like DENALI SoundBomb.
- Auxiliary Brake Lights: Enhance rear visibility with additional brake lights that can flash or modulate upon braking, especially beneficial for Trikes.
- Heated Gear: Power heated clothing like jackets, gloves, or seat pads directly from the ezCAN, often utilizing the bike’s existing heated grip control levels if available.
- GPS and USB Charging: Provide switched power for GPS devices or USB charging ports, ensuring they only draw power when the ignition is on, preventing battery drain.
Installation and Setup on Your 2019 Harley Trike
Installing the Hex ezCAN on your 2019 Harley Trike is generally straightforward:
- Locate the Diagnostic Connector: Identify the diagnostic connector on your 2019 Harley Trike. Consult your owner’s manual or online resources for the exact location. It is often near the OBD2 standard connector type.
- Mount the ezCAN Module: Find a suitable location under the seat or fairing to mount the compact ezCAN module, using the included Velcro strips.
- Connect to the Battery: Connect the ezCAN power cables directly to your Harley Trike’s battery terminals.
- Plug into the Diagnostic Connector: Connect the ezCAN data connector to your 2019 Harley Trike’s diagnostic port.
- Connect Accessories: Wire your chosen accessories to the ezCAN output channels using appropriate connectors.
- Software Configuration: Download and install the HEX ezCAN software on your computer. Connect your computer to the ezCAN module via USB cable and configure each output channel’s function and behavior to match your connected accessories.
Always refer to the specific installation instructions provided by Hex Innovate and consider consulting with a qualified motorcycle technician if you are not comfortable with electrical work.
Choosing Between DENALI CANsmart and Hex ezCAN for Your Harley Trike
While both DENALI CANsmart and Hex ezCAN are manufactured by Hex Innovate and offer similar functionalities, there are slight differences to consider for your 2019 Harley Trike:
- Hex ezCAN: A more generic solution, it includes loose connectors to accommodate a wide range of aftermarket accessories. It is ideal if you are using accessories from various brands. An optional extension cable kit is available for DENALI lights.
- DENALI CANsmart: Designed specifically for seamless plug-and-play integration with DENALI lights and horns. It includes pre-wired cables with connectors compatible with DENALI products. If you are primarily using DENALI accessories, CANsmart can offer a slightly simpler installation.
For most 2019 Harley Trike owners looking for versatility and compatibility with various accessory brands, the Hex ezCAN is often the preferred choice due to its included connectors and adaptability.
Enhance Your 2019 Harley Trike Riding Experience
The Hex ezCAN accessory controller is a game-changer for 2019 Harley-Davidson Trike owners wanting to customize their rides with electrical accessories. By intelligently utilizing the diagnostic connector and CAN bus system, the ezCAN simplifies installation, enhances functionality, and maintains the integrity of your motorcycle’s electrical system. Unlock the full potential of your 2019 Harley Trike and enjoy a safer, more personalized, and feature-rich riding experience with the Hex ezCAN.
For detailed information and to explore compatibility with your specific 2019 Harley Trike model, visit the Hex website and the DENALI website.
