2001 Vulcan Classic Backfire/Temp Light Problems

Hi all,
I have a 2001 Vulcan classic 1500. I have never had major work done
to the bike. 4000 miles. I was riding pretty hard one day and when I
got off highway to get gas the "Temp" light came on and at the exact
same time the bike backfired. After much investigation, I found that
it was not overheating. When I ride it for a bit, it will backfire
and the overtemp light will light up, but after that it will run
fine. for a bit.........and then the same thing. It will backfire,
and the light will come on for an instant, and then back to normal. I
am assuming that it is getting grounded somewhere in the system which
shorts out the light and makes the engine missfire. Before I start
looking for a bare wire, I thought I would ask you professionals if
there is something in the ignition system that is a typical problem
that could cause these symptoms.

thanks and god bless,
Bryan