ZZR 1100 no brake light.

[Scotsrick]

I’m trying to move on my old ZZR that’s sat for at least a year,before my new Sprint GT arrives.

Everything seems okay except I can’t get a brake light either from the front or rear brakes. Twin bulbs but nothing from either.

Mechanicals I’m fine with, electrics are voodoo stuff.

Can you suggest some simple checks before I have to get someone in to fix it for me?

I do have a multimeter.

[UncleFester]

Would seem odd that both switches don't work - ergo i'd pull the lamps and check the contacts for crud - it can be removed with emery paper. Also check the filaments of the lamps.
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Module 1 and 2 passed - October 2014. Happy owner of a 2017 Z1000SX, ex owner of a YBR125 / CB500 / VFR800.

[stinkwheel]

Absolutely nothing stopping it blowing both bulbs. Happens a lot in my experience so simple things first.

Then check the switches are working with your meter. Set to resistance and measure between the terminals, should be high resistance with the switch off and low resistance with the switch on.

Then check there's power to the switches, should be 12v at one terminal on each switch when the ignition is on. Black lead to earth (battery negative or any bit of bare metal) red to the terminal.

Then check there is 12v at one of the bulb holder terminals with the ignition on and the brake held on.
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“Rule one: Always stick around for one more drink. That's when things happen. That's when you find out everything you want to know.”
I did the 2010 Round Britain Rally on my 350 Bullet. 89 landmarks, 3 months, 9,500 miles.

[1198]

There’s a connection under the seat where the wires from the bike loom connect into the small loom that splits to connects to each lamp holder. Have you checked that you’re getting 12v there when you squeeze a brake? The lamp holders themselves are not that good too, my bulbs are now both hardwired in.
I’m assuming g you’ve checked the fuse of course...