Headlight Dipped Beams - Supposed to be Always On?

[benzor]

On my previous bikes, the headlight was always on, and the switch was for high beams.

I noticed the other day my 2002 BMW R1150R didn't have the headlight on, but the high beams do turn it on.

Is this normal?

PS - On a potentially related note, my right turn and turn cancel switches no longer work, so I'll be pulling the tank to figure out if I have a broken loom.

[sjbmw]

As far as the turn signal goes, check the wrapped wires leading to it.
I found a broken wire, don't forget if you see a wire tie running under the tank that looks like it's strangling wires, it is.
Cut the tie. After years of pressure, the wires break.

viewtopic.php?f=2&t=25467&hilit=+turn+signal

[AZBMWRIDER]

You can remove the headlight bulb and check the low beam filament for continuity with a multimeter .
If it's good, check the connector for power .

[gregor]

Check if the right-hand handlebar switch has three positions i.e. off , parking (side light) and headlight positions. My UK bike of the same age has that layout. If it does not, then the headlamp should be on when the engine is running and ignition is on. Check the low beam filament first then the other bulbs. Then go on to check the wiring loom.
Good luck.

[peels]

I agree with the above.

No 3 position switch, then your bulb is out. there is REALLY low beam that's actually a parking light if there's no headlight present..

Mine was only working on highbeams as well...