Modern Buddy

So I was doing a pre-trip, I know I'm silly, and I discovered this dangling from the rear of my Buddy 170i. What is it? Why would it break? Would it be safe to use zip ties till maintenance? WTF?!

From afar, the part, and where it was.

At the risk of saying the obvious - it is the CDI module, part of the electronic ignition system. (I cleverly figured that out because it is written in big letters on the side of the unit in your photo )
A look in the Buddy Service manual (page 103) shows where it is normally mounted.

Well I'll be damned! I see it now, I did not when I took it, but I do know where it goes and plan on mounting it up so i can ride it in to get it fixed... I guess.

Well, here is my temporary "fix" so I can get it in, and me where I need to be.

Hmmm...I hope that gets you where you are going. Inventive, but I'm Not sure I'd be so confident zip tying to that wire, or hose. I'd probably rent a Uhaul trailer for $25 and take it in that way. Seems like things could go wrong in a big way if that comes loose while you are riding.

At any rate, let us know how you fare.

Your CDI is the computerized ignition timing module that controls when the spark plug fires. If something went wrong with it, you would know right away, the bike would just cease firing and the engine would stop, you'd have no spark. So as long as the unit and the wires are secure and in no danger of being crushed, stretched, burnt, melted, or shaken to bits, it's all good, I wouldn't worry about riding it, but I'd get it to the dealer ASAP to repair the mount, just out of principle. : )

(Edit: I can't really tell from the photo how you attached it, but I'd try to get it as close to its original position as possible, mounted to the frame, not the engine to prevent heat damage or wire breakage due to suspension travel.)

I was more concerned with the part falling off and binding in the tire, or pulling that wire or hose that it is tie wrapped to off, but then admittedly I'm no mechanic.

Yes, there is a concern, the ties will get me to the hardware store in the morning, safe, and then back home. I will cut the cords and use a metal piece that will be more resistant to heat. The dealer will be open again in a few days and I will take it in. I made sure that no wires are being pulled and where it looks like it is strapped to the wire that is not really "load-baring" but more or less stabilizing. With the metal piece I will not need that. I just did not want to risk another mile or two with it hanging the way it did.