Author Topic: Battery Chargers (Read 3197 times)

DjVas · « **on:** October 30, 2006, 09:38:19 PM »

Hey guys! Getting ready to store my 02B6 for the winter and I am looking around for a battery charger

What is the difference between a 20$ battery charger and a 70$ or higher? Both seem to stop charging when the voltage level is met and start recharging when it drops

for example is this a good one?
http://www.ridenowonline.com/product_detail.aspx?item_guid=580ba03a-46e5-4074-95df-95f945019149

Any suggestions and/or places to buy one from??

Thanks

Vas

DjVas · « **Reply #1 on:** October 31, 2006, 09:12:41 PM »

anyone??

Cryptoman · « **Reply #2 on:** October 31, 2006, 09:50:38 PM »

For storage of lead-acid batteries, you want what is known as a "float" charger which applies a constant voltage of approximately 13.5 volts. The one you suggested will work fine. I have bought a number of these inexpensive Harbor Freight units in the past:

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=42292

However, lately their quality control seems to have gone downhill, and I've seen them put out anything from 12 to 16 volts. If you get one of those, be sure to measure the voltage output before using it.

You might also consider installing a connector rather than having to clip directly to the battery posts each time.

DjVas · « **Reply #3 on:** October 31, 2006, 09:54:38 PM »

thanks! do you think the one on the link I posted will be any better ?

Cryptoman · « **Reply #4 on:** October 31, 2006, 10:23:30 PM »

Chances are the RideNow/BikeMaster one you linked to is a little better quality than the HF ones. Also, it will charge at up to 14.8V/900mA if your battery is low, which the HF unit doesn't do. Here's a link to the same product at NewEnough.com: http://www.newenoughhp.com/bikemaster_battery_charger_900ma_page.htm. They don't usually sell junk.

PeteSC · « **Reply #5 on:** November 09, 2006, 11:16:44 PM »

I'd also be tempted to put a common light timer on a charger being used on a bike, unattended, over the winter.

Have the charger come on a couple of hours a day.....max.

(he says, with two dead batteries.......)

gtbandit · « **Reply #6 on:** November 11, 2006, 01:19:36 AM »

About 5 years ago, Motorcycle Consumer News tested several maintenance chargers. Top scorers were:
Accumate
Battery Tender 6A
Yuasa 1.5A
Yuasa 900mA
All of these received top scores each category: initialization, maintenance and restoration.
Very close behind were:
Superior Accu Charger
Battery Tender Jr.

They've tested a few more good chargers since then, but I don't have any of that data handy.

Pete, your alive!!!

gyrogearcrunch · « **Reply #7 on:** November 23, 2006, 02:15:17 PM »

Bought a Black & Decker Smart Battery Charger, p/n VEC080BD, at Walmart for $17.95 about two years ago because the original 1999 battery was getting tired. Now it's always connected to the bike unless I'm riding it, and the ol' battery has a new spring in its step even tho it's now 7 years old. Three different types of connectors are supplied. The polarized DC bullet connector with battery ring terminals is perfect for the Bandit. The connector just pokes out under the right sidecover. In operation, the unit puts out a "woodpecker" sound while it's putting juice into the battery. It turns itself on and off automatically. I like the reassurance this gives that the thing is working. I also like the fact that the charger uses a bright red case. This makes it easy to see in the dark. At least, I've never tried to ride off with the charger connected to the bike! This unit can put out 2 amps, so it can also be used overnight to revive a dead car battery (don't ask!). Finally, The float voltage comes in at a smidge under 14 volts. Walmart still has them for $17.95. Great deal!

Herb