Updated and improved for 2017, with more efficient power circuitry, a 1 Amp charge current and refinements in the software control, the OptiMate 4–1A Dual Program now offers even faster and more efficient charging and maintenance of 12V motorcycle batteries, including BMW bikes with a CAN bus electrical system.
Connected either direct to the bike’s battery, or through the 12V port on CAN bus-equipped bikes, OptiMate 4-1A’s Dual Program system automatically diagnoses, recovers, charges, tests and maintains 12V motorcycle batteries all year long.
Key-less activation gives completely safe and unsupervised charging on BMW CAN bus-equipped machines without any input from the user – or having to turn on the ignition to activate the charging process. The built-in LED display shows charge progress throughout.
Alongside normal maintenance and charging, a low voltage pulse function is also included for effective recovery of badly neglected, sulphated batteries. The OptiMate 4–1A can save a battery from as low as 0.5V. Pre- and post-charging testing informs the user of battery condition in an instant.
It’s safe to use with all types of lead-acid batteries – including Maintenance Free and GEL varieties – and features a tough, splash-proof case; ideal for use in garages, sheds, workshops and other demanding environments.
High frequency, fully electronic power conversion means it’s able to receive global 100 – 240V ac power, so it can be used outside the UK too.
Two models of the OptiMate 4-1A V3 are available – the standard model, which retails for £70.99 including VAT, and a dedicated BMW CAN bus edition, which sells for £77.99. For further information visit www.tecmate.com.
Delivered with a 1.8m (6ft) power cable (like all other OptiMate chargers) for convenience and versatility, two keyhole slots allow for easy wall mounting and there is a slot to fit a Velcro strap – shaped so that the charger can hang from a motorcycle’s handlebar.
High quality cable accessories are included – such as the O-04 battery clip, which is custom-designed to grip onto flat, square or round battery posts, and the O-01 weatherproof battery cable (-40°C rated with 15A fuse), which comes with M6 rings that perfectly fit powersport battery hardware. A rubber boot and cap seals the SAE connector against water and dust.
The key to the strength of the OptiMate 1+ is the unique OptiMate 24-7-365 maintenance
programme. OptiMate’s “connect and forget/no more problems” claim has been proven and appreciated by millions of riders worldwide.
The OptiMate maintenance programme does not cycle the battery, it automatically connects and disconnects every hour, always monitoring and then replacing only the charge drained in that previous hour. The longer you leave the battery connected, the
stronger it becomes!
A special low Volt pulse mode can ‘wake up’ the battery from as low as 4 Volts before it delivers constant current charge. If the battery is too far gone, this smart little charger won’t simply ‘green light’ that battery, instead it warns the rider that the battery cannot hold charge.
The OptiMate 1+ retails for £42,99 including VAT. Visit www.tecmate.com for details.
A cost-effective solution for long-term maintenance of 12V motorcycle batteries, the OptiMate 2 smart charger retails at just £52.99, yet features the latest in intelligent charging technology.
Capable of increasing battery life by up to 400% – saving the additional cost of having to renew your bike’s battery more than necessary – OptiMate’s four-step programme brings the battery to full charge, then switches to a unique maintenance mode: keeping the battery at 100%, whilst providing power to the on board computer, display or anti theft alarm at the same time.
Easy to use and fully automatic – just plug in and forget – it features a unique ‘30 minute charge / 30 minute rest’ cycle to prevent overcharging, and includes reverse polarity protection and ‘no spark connection’ for complete safety.
Weighing just 450 grams and capable of working with any AC supply between 100-240V, OptiMate 2 can be carried on trips and tours in the UK and abroad, as well as used in the workshop at home. The weatherproof cover also allows operation outside.
It’s safe to use with STD (with removable filler caps), sealed AGM (absorbed glass mat) and sealed GEL 12V lead-acid batteries up to 50Ah, and is also compatible with some larger batteries. It comes with a three-year warranty for complete peace of mind.
Winter attacks your motorcycle’s battery on lots of different fronts. As the temperature drops, the chemical reaction inside the battery slows down, reducing its capacity and its ability to accept a charge. Add to that the increased strain you’re putting on it with increased use of headlight and auxiliary/fog lighting, heated grips and clothing and you’re heading for battery failure.
Even if you don’t use your bike very often through the winter months, charge is lost due to alarms / immobilisers, clocks and on-board computers and through self-discharge – the battery uses a little of its own energy every day to keep itself alive.
A proper long-term battery care routine is vital to keep performance at its optimum throughout the cold months.
Regularly charging and maintaining your battery not only keeps it working to maximum capacity, it can also double its working life, as well as significantly reducing the likelihood of failure.
Optimise with OptiMate
Recommended by most major motorcycle manufacturers, OptiMate chargers and optimisers can maintain, test, charge and even repair a bike’s battery, all completely automatically.
All OptiMate chargers run a unique ‘connect and forget’ 24hr, 7 days-a-week, 365 days-a-year programme, so they can and should be connected to your bike’s battery and left to do their work – no user input required. The battery is checked and topped up hourly and a desulphation pulse is delivered to keep all the plates 100% ship-shape.
Featuring easy-to-read displays, they keep you updated with progress and battery condition too.
To get the best out of your OptiMate charger/optimiser, follow these steps:
1. Select the right charger/optimiser
It’s crucial to use the correct charger/optimiser for the type of battery. Obviously, a 6V battery should only be charged with a 6V charger, and a 12V battery with a 12V charger. If you have both, OptiMate 5 VoltMatic automatically selects the right voltage for the battery and it can even save 6 Volt batteries.
Also recognise what kind of biker you are. If you always remember to hook up your charger whenever you park the bike, then the OptiMate 1 or 2 maintainers will do the job, but if you are the forgetful type and want industry leading ‘battery saving insurance’, an OptiMate 3 or 4 is the right charger for your 12V lead-acid battery.
The same goes for CAN-Bus-equipped machines. Not all systems and chargers are compatible – BMW’s system, for example, ‘switches off’ the 12V socket when the ignition is turned off, breaking the connection to the battery. For continuous and unsupervised maintenance, the charger must know how to communicate with the system to connect to the battery. The OptiMate 4 CAN-bus knows exactly how to so it can perform its hourly ‘no supervision required’ test and maintenance cycle.
If you’re running a Lithium (Li-ion) battery, you need to use an OptiMate Lithium charger. That’s because a 12.8V Lithium battery’s working voltage range is higher than a 12V lead-acid – 12.8 Volts measured across the terminals indicates a lithium battery down to 10% charge, whereas at that same voltage a sealed AGM lead-acid battery is 100% charged! OptiMate Lithium will keep your expensive lithium battery 100% charged at 13.6 Volts and it comes with ‘battery saver insurance’ – the industry-leading lithium save programme that will gently bring your lithium battery back up to full charge.
2. Sort your connection
For optimum performance, give your OptiMate charger/optimiser the best possible connection to your battery. OptiMate includes a premium weatherproof battery lead (with ringlets) for quick and easy connection every time you park the bike. If you intend to charge with the OptiMate clips, thoroughly clean your battery terminals and remove any corrosion. Other connection options, such as panel mount sockets, both SAE and DIN, are also available.
3. Environment
For optimum long-term maintenance of batteries, a stable temperature is best. Ideally, try to minimise the difference between day and night time temperature around your battery, but if you cannot – if your bike is parked in an unheated garage or outside under cover – keep your OptiMate connected 24-7. OptiMate provides a much needed lifeline for your battery, and guarantees it will make it through winter unharmed, even at temperatures well below freezing.
If your bike’s battery has removable filler caps for topping-up with distilled water, be aware that high ambient temperatures can cause the water in the electrolyte to evaporate, increasing the concentration of acid and accelerating plate corrosion. Check the electrolyte level regularly and top-up if needed. Be careful not to overfill, as excess electrolyte is expelled during charging and riding You don’t want a puddle of acid forming on the floor below your bike!
4. Dead batteries
A lead-acid battery left discharged for a long period can appear ‘dead’ however this might not necessarily be the case. OptiMate’s unique SAVE program can recover and repair even deeply discharged batteries, and bring them back to full capacity, automatically.
The OptiMate system can do this with the battery still fitted and connected to the bike, but if it detects live circuitry, it disables the special save mode, so it is more effective to remove the battery and ‘bench-charge’ it. This has the added benefit of allowing a full inspection for signs of mechanical damage, such as bloating or cracks.
For information and specifications of the complete OptiMate range visit www.tecmate.com
New from OptiMate, the USB-O105 enables fast charging of two mobile devices at the same time, from any standard BIKE (DIN Ø12mm) power socket. Designed for riders who carry multiple devices, whether touring, commuting or just out for the day, the O-105 can withstand to the rigours of the riding environment and will deliver ample charge for power-hungry modern devices.
2 x USB sockets located directly on the charger
Connects to a standard BIKE (DIN Ø12mm) power socket
Weatherproof
3300 mA fast charge
AUTO off 3 hours after engine stopped or if battery voltage drops below 12.3 volts
Delivering 3300 mA through dual USB sockets, OptiMate’s O-105 provides enough power to charge a combination of smartphone, GPS, camera, and tablet.
Designed for machines where access to the socket is limited, especially those mounted below the saddle, the O-105 protrudes only 38mm from the socket and its 90° USB outlet allows charging cables to be routed out of harm’s way.
Like OptiMate’s entire range of connectors and cables, weatherproofing comes as standard. The O-105 has a unique USB socket seal that keeps moisture out when a USB cable is plugged in, and a runner cap to seal out the elements when not in use.
The O-105 is 100% true power rated, delivering a continuous and consistent charge – essential for increasingly sophisticated modern devices. It also comes with a built-in Apple ‘handshake’, to guarantee iPhones and iPads charge at the appropriate maximum.
Protection for the bike’s battery is built-in; the O-105 will automatically stop charging any device after three hours or if the voltage drops to 12.3V.
The OptiMate USB O-105 retails at £24.95 including VAT. Visit www.tecmate.com for details
Purpose-built for motorcycles, OptiMate USB chargers are 100% true power rated, and deliver a continuous 2.1A – plenty for power hungry devices such as tablets and phones. They also come with a built-in Apple ‘handshake’, to guarantee iPhones and iPads charge at the appropriate maximum.
With devices like smartphones, tablets and sat-navs increasing in popularity among motorcyclists, on-bike USB charging is fast becoming an essential add-on.
Finding a suitable USB charging solution that can stand up to the rigours of the riding environment, and also deliver the correct amount of charge for the chosen device, isn’t straightforward. Many over-the-counter cables and ports fall short.
Most smartphones and tablets need to ‘qualify’ the USB charger before they will accept a charge; they check the voltage (5 Volts is the USB standard) and then verify the maximum current the USB charger can deliver. If the device receives the wrong signal, it can limit the charge current, or fail to charge altogether.
All OptiMate USB chargers also have built-protection for the motorcycle battery, to prevent it being drained: the Vehicle Battery Protection system will automatically stop charging any device if the bike’s battery voltage drops to 12.5V.
Like OptiMate’s entire range of connectors and cables, weatherproofing comes as standard, to help prevent moisture causing problems and damage to circuits, and guarding against any issues they may cause with the bike’s own electrical system.
The range includes the O-103 (£19.00 including VAT) – the ideal companion for tankbags fitted with the OptiMate O-30 tankbag power entry; the O-104 that comes with a moulded BIKE (DIN) ‘Hella’ plug that fits all BMW, Triumph and Victory OEM sockets (£39.99); and the O-110 USB splitter, which allows a rider to simultaneously charge two devices (from £11.99).
For details of the complete range of OptiMate USB connectors, leads and accessories – as well as their battery optimisers – visit www.optimate1.com
OptiMate pioneered the concept of battery maintenance for motorcyclists in the mid-1990s. Since then motorcycle electrical systems have evolved rapidly, with the introduction of CAN-Bus, ECU updates and lithium technology. As a result, there is no longer a one-size-fits-all charging and maintenance solution for bike batteries.
OptiMate’s continuous evolution/development has resulted in an extensive range, capable of offering owners of almost any bike or scooter safe and simple long-term battery care and maintenance.
OptiMate2 is the cost-effective solution for long-term maintenance of 12V motorcycle batteries. OptiMate2 charges and maintains the battery, while simultaneously powering the bike’s on-board computer, display or anti-theft alarm. It’s fully automatic and has overcharge, reverse polarity and spark protection.
OptiMate3 Global is designed with a wide range input (100-240V, 50-60Hz) that works with mains electricity around the world. It diagnoses, charges, tests and optimally maintains all types of 12V lead-acid batteries rated from 3 to 50 Ah. It can also recover severely neglected batteries from as low as 2 Volts.
OptiMate4 Dual Program includes two charging programmes; one is for direct charging of a battery via the terminals or an adaptor cable; the other allows safe and unsupervised charging through a motorcycle’s CAN-bus controlled 12V socket. OptiMate 4 Dual Program tests before and after charging and can recover a battery from as little as 0.5 Volts. The CAN-bus edition diagnoses, recovers, charges, tests and maintains the battery via the 12V port on CAN-bus equipped bikes. Keyless activation means it will charge and maintain the battery automatically until it is disconnected. It can also recover badly neglected, sulphated batteries.
OptiMate5 Voltmatic recovers 6V lead-acid batteries from deep discharge, and can also charge and maintain medium to large 12V batteries. OptiMate 5 identifies whether a battery is 6V or 12V, runs tests to see whether it requires desulphation or bulk charge, then equalises the voltage in each cell. It’s compatible with STD lead-acid, sealed AGM ‘maintenance free’, GEL and spiral cell batteries.
OptiMate6 Select is designed to be used on bikes with update and diagnostic modes, and has a built-in power supply to ensure there’s enough charge in the battery for uninterrupted downloads, updates and troubleshooting. It prepares the battery before updates take place, delivers accurate temperature-compensated voltage and current, and warns if current draw is likely to cause battery voltage to drop too low.
OptiMate also offers a choice of chargers for lithium batteries. Compact and lightweight, yet delivering high cranking amps, lithium batteries are an increasingly popular choice for motorcyclists on road & track, but are considerably more expensive than lead acid units. Maintaining lithium batteries is crucial, because once discharged they can be difficult to recover. However, regular 12-volt chargers for lead acid batteries should not be used, due to different charging curves and thresholds.
Lithium (LiFePO4) batteries contain 4 x 3.2V cells, providing a total nominal voltage of 12.8V, compared to a 12V lead-acid battery, which has 6 x 2V cells.
OptiMate’s Lithium 0.8A assesses battery condition and selects the charge programme to suit: Bulk Charge for rapid recovery and Save mode to safely recover over-discharged batteries. The Lithium 0.8A is also designed to reset the internal BMS (Battery Management System) on batteries with a low voltage cut-out so that charging can begin.
The OptiMate Lithium offers all of the above, with the added benefit of a faster 5A charge cycle – ideal for racing & trackday applications, when electric systems are run on a total-loss basis.
As motorcycle control systems become increasingly advanced, with engine management and even suspension settings now microprocessor controlled, software updates, rider adjustment and troubleshooting with diagnostic tools and apps is becoming more common.
Often the update and diagnosis modes require the machine to be ‘switched off’ for extended periods. As the systems and processors work they can drain the battery of power, subsequently disrupting, and even stopping the processes, giving false error/diagnostic codes – a little like pulling the plug on your home computer when it’s in the middle of an update.
A battery optimiser is the obvious solution, but using the wrong type can also disrupt the update/diagnostics process, if it fails to prevent the battery voltage dropping below the minimum level needed for the bike’s control systems to work – typically around 12.5V.
Specifically designed for use with update and diagnostic modes, the new OptiMate 6 Select features a built-in ‘power supply’ that delivers a fixed voltage of 13.6V; ensuring there’s enough charge in the battery for downloads, updates and troubleshooting.
The 6 Select prepares the bike’s battery properly before any updates take place, with two modes available: one for batteries charged to the standard voltage of 14.4V and the second for high performance AGM batteries that need a charge voltage of 14.7V to reach 100%.
The 6 Select’s nine-step charge programme delivers accurate temperature-compensated voltage and up to 5 Amps charge current. The process is automatically controlled by OptiMate’s unique AmpMatic processor that delivers just the right charge according to battery size and condition.
It also monitors the battery, warning the user if current draw from the vehicle is likely to cause the battery voltage to drop too low.
Making the whole process easier still is the new OptiMate HOOK, which allows the user to hang the OptiMate on the bike’s handlebar; lifting cables off the floor and keeping the OptiMate’s LED display in easy view.
The OptiMate 6 Select is available at retail price of £87.49 including VAT and is covered by a 3-year warranty for complete peace of mind. For details visit www.optimate1.com.
Most electrical accessories designed for use on/with a motorcycle will get wet at some stage – after all, bikes are designed to be used outdoors. Keeping that moisture out of the electrical circuitry is crucial – even a small amount can cause intermittent faults and even total failure.
One of the most vulnerable points of any circuit is where connections are made, yet many accessories – even those designed for use during winter months, like heated clothing – aren’t routinely supplied with connectors that are able to keep out the elements.
OptiMate’s entire range of connectors and cables are weatherproof as standard. Compatible with the majority of accessories and add-ons currently available, they help to stop moisture causing problems and guard against any issues it might cause with the bike’s electrical system.
The range covers most of the connectors and leads needed to operate common accessories, like heated clothing, sat nav systems, smart phone chargers and battery optimisers. It includes:
SAE Connectors, compatible with all used in the industry, designed to accept OptiMate’s boot and cap or in-line seal that protects the connection against water, dust and dirt. Very useful whilst riding as the pins will not corrode, and in workshop/outdoor applications, where cables can end up trailing on the ground.
Custom battery clips; designed for square power-sport batteries, the flat tabs found on some small power sport and gel deep-cycle batteries, as well as the round posts common in automotive applications.
Moulded battery rings (M6/1/4”) specifically designed for power-sport batteries, a much better alternative to the common M8 / 5/16” ring.
Auto connectors (Ø21mm): plugs with built in fuse protection, sockets with retainer slots for the leaf springs and with sealing caps.
Bike (DIN) connector (Ø12mm): now fully moulded, and available in low profile 90 and 180-degree versions.
DC Ø2.5mm connectors commonly used in heated clothing, which have in-line seals/boots for every connection and a battery lead that comes with 16 gauge (1.31mm2) cable, rated to –40°C.
For details of the complete range of OptiMate connectors, leads and accessories – as well as their battery optimisers – and to find out how you can weatherproof your current kit, visit www.optimate1.com
OptiMate’s new DC to DC charger enables the charging of a 12V lead-acid motorcycle battery using a 12V car battery; perfect for race paddocks and in garages and sheds that don’t have an AC power supply.
OptiMate DC to DC has the advanced features you’d expect to find on any OptiMate: it recovers, charges and maintains any STD, AGM and GEL 12V battery (from 3 – 96Ah), but it doesn’t need to be plugged into the mains. To get charging, hook up the DC to DC to a car or marine/RV deep cycle battery and thanks to OptiMate’s Source Battery Protection, it will charge the bike battery without killing the source battery i.e. it shuts off when the voltage drops below 11V.
The DC to DC’s smart long term maintenance mode extends protection to the bike battery as long as possible, delivering just enough power to protect against parasitic draw from the bike’s system and keep it ready to deliver. And if you forgot to maintain that bike battery, it can save a deep discharged, sulphated battery from as low as 1 Volt.
OptiMate DC to DC is totally safe for vehicle electronics, is spark suppressed and will automatically shut-down if short-circuited or the battery is disconnected.
It can be used indoors or outside, even in rain or extreme cold, thanks to a weatherproof case and OptiMate’s in-line connector sealing system, compatible with the comprehensive range of OptiMate accessory leads.
OptiMate DC to DC is priced at £69.99 (including VAT) and comes with everything needed to get charging: 1 x weatherproof battery lead, 1 x standard battery clamp lead, 1 x fused battery clamp lead and a full 3-year warranty.
OptiMate have introduced a range of low profile, 90 degree DIN plug adapters that fit neatly into surface-mounted power sockets, providing a safe and secure way to power devices and accessories on the move.
Many modern motorcycles, including touring & adventure sport bikes from BMW, Victory and Triumph, have 12v power sockets located close to rider or passenger seats, where any traditional straight 180° DIN adapter/cable that is plugged in would be vulnerable to being pulled out or even damaged through snagging and catching.
OptiMate’s new range of cable adapters feature a low-profile, 90-degree plug that, when connected, sits close to the bike, out of harm’s way.
Three adapters are currently available: both the 6″/15cm and 40″/100cm long BIKE/DIN to 2-pin SAE connectors are designed to connect to any OptiMate accessory, e.g. USB chargers, tank bag power adaptors, etc. The Bike/DIN to DC 2.5mm ‘jack plug’ adapter is ideal for powering heated clothing, GPS and smart phones.
All three plugs feature industry standard connectors, are fully compatible with OptiMate’s battery optimisers, chargers and cable adapters and come fused to 15 Amps.
Fully sealed during the moulding process, they are water and dirt resistant and are tested to -40°C/-40°F; so they can stand up to the rigours of touring and adventure riding, as well as commuting.
OptiMate Cable accessories with the Low Profile BIKE (DIN) plugs are available from all authorised retailers and are covered by a 3-year warranty for complete peace of mind. Prices start from £14.99. Visit www.tecmate.com for details
OptiMate have designed a new dual function monitor, which displays the battery’s state of charge and will also provide active charging system monitoring, giving owners an immediate overview of the motorcycle’s electrical system.
Driven by a micro-processor, the compact unit has 4 LEDs, showing whether the battery is out of charge (red), weak (amber), acceptable (one green tick) or good (double green ticks).
While the bike is stored, the LED matching the battery’s state of charge will blink every 5 seconds. This action draws just 0.2 milliamps, a fraction of the power drawn the most motorcycles’ circuitry, so it will not have a significant affect on battery lifespan.
When the engine is running, the LED mode changes to an arrow, which points at the LED matching the voltage being delivered by charging system, so owners can see at a glance whether the electrical system is operating properly.
Two versions are available to suit lead-acid batteries, including AGM. The O-124 is a 60cm (24”) weatherproof lead, that attaches to the battery and has SAE connectors for an OptiMate charger or other accessories. The O-125 monitor is designed to be connected to any 2-pin SAE battery lead already fitted to the motorcycle. It is also compatible with OptiMate cable adaptors, such as the O-02 AUTO/BIKE plug, O-04 battery clip set or O-19 low profile BIKE (DIN) plug.
The O-127 for lithium batteries has a 24” (60cm) weatherproof lead, but with a slightly different display to the lead-acid battery monitors, showing whether the battery is out of charge (red), weak (amber), acceptable (14V = one green tick) or over-charging, which can kill an expensive lithium battery!
The 0-124 sells for £22.99 (including VAT), the 0-125 costs £19.99 and the 0-127 is £22.99. All are covered by a 3-year limited warranty. For details visit www.optimate1.com.
OptiMate – developers of the world’s first Lithium-Ion battery optimiser – have introduced a cost-effective lithium-specific battery maintainer to their range.
Compact and lightweight, yet delivering high voltages, lithium batteries are an increasingly popular choice for motorcyclists on road & track, but are considerably more expensive* than lead acid units. They are particularly vulnerable to damage if left attached to a machine and unattended – Li-Ion batteries often have a lower Ah capacity, so can flatten quickly if left connected for long periods.
Maintaining lithium batteries is crucial, because once discharged they can be difficult to recover. However, regular 12-volt chargers for lead acid batteries should not be used, due to different charging curves and thresholds. Lithium (LiFePO4) batteries contain 4 x 3.2V cells, providing a total nominal voltage of 12.8V, compared to a 12V lead-acid battery, which has 6x 2V cells.
Totally automatic and with an intuitive LED display to keep the user informed throughout, the Lithium 0.8A assesses battery condition and selects the charge programme to suit: Bulk Charge for rapid recovery and Save mode to safely recover over-discharged batteries. The Lithium 0.8A is also designed to reset the internal BMS (Battery Management System) on batteries with a low voltage cut-out so that charging can begin.
Battery condition is continually monitored, to prevent unnecessary charging, and an alternating ‘charge and rest’ maintenance programme protects the battery against over-discharge.
Recommended by leading lithium battery manufacturers and safe to use with all LiFePO4/LFPs, the Lithium 0.8A comes with crocodile clips and a weatherproof lead that can be attached to the battery. Available from all authorised OptiMate suppliers for £54.99 including VAT. For more information visit www.optimate1.com.
* A Lead-Acid battery for a Honda CBR600F costs approx. £30-£50; the lithium equivalent is > £100
OptiMate have produced 2 million intelligent battery chargers since 1995 and the OptiMate 3 Global is the latest iteration, with many new features:
Precise microprocessor controlled diagnostics and maintenance programme
Lighter and smaller than previous model
More powerful output
Global input for worldwide compatibility
The new OptiMate3 Global diagnoses, recovers, charges, tests and optimally maintains all types of 12V lead-acid batteries rated from 3 to 50 Ah.
Fully sealed in an IP54 rated weatherproof case, it is 50% lighter than the previous model (0.4kg compared to 0.8kg), 33% more powerful (output up from 0.6A to 0.8A ) and can recover severely neglected batteries from as low as 2 Volts, thanks to cutting-edge electronics.
The Optimate3 Global’s microprocessor automatically performs hourly tests, maintaining the battery with an interactive float charge, (800mA maximum), providing advance warning of any problems. It also diagnoses sulphation (when crystals form around the lead plates inside the battery, reducing performance), and automatically applies pulses of electric current to break them down and recover the battery.
Safety features include spark suppression, automatic shut-down if short-circuited/battery disconnected and zero risk of overcharging.
The OptiMate3 Global has a wide range input (100-240V, 50-60Hz) that works with mains electricity around the world and also absorbs current irregularities better. It sells for £49.99 including VAT and there are also two and four bank options (£99.99 and £195.00) for multi-bike owners and small workshops. For more information visit www.optimate1.com.
More than a quarter of UK motorcycles are off the road at any given time. Department for Transport figures show that during 2012 (the most recent year for which statistics are available) on average more than 500,000 of Britain’s 1.8 million motorcycles, scooters and mopeds was subject to a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN).
Whether a vehicle is off the road for storage (e.g. winter ‘hibernation’), repair or restoration, battery maintenance will help to avoid inconvenience and expense when the bike is ready to ride again. Battery maintenance experts at OptiMate advise motorcyclists to follow three simple rules if storing their vehicles for longer than a month.
All batteries have a finite life, even if never used. Lead acid batteries last longest if stored at stable room temperature and discharge faster in hot or cold conditions (temperatures above 35°C or below freezing). As batteries discharge, the electrolyte [‘battery acid’] changes from sulphuric acid to lead sulphate and water, a process known as ‘sulphation’. Sulphate crystals attach to the lead plates inside the battery cells and make it resistant to charging.
Keep your battery 100% charged at all times. This not only keeps it in peak condition but also protects it from sulphation. The simplest way to achieve this is by connecting it to a smart charger, such as an OptiMate, whenever it is not in use.
Never use a car charger to maintain your battery or jump leads attached to a car battery to start a bike with a flat battery. Motorcycle batteries have far less resistance than those fitted to cars (just look at the difference in size) and either technique could overheat the battery, accelerating the sulphation process. The OptiMate 3+ for example charges at a rate of 0.6 amps; some car chargers are rated at 20 amps!
The OptiMate 3+ will monitor and maintain motorcycle batteries while the bike is not in use and sell for £49.99 including VAT. For more information www.tecmate-int.com.
OptiMate™ 5 Voltmatic is the first ever charger capable of automatically recovering 6V lead-acid batteries from deep discharge.
Light [600 grammes] and compact, the OptiMate 5 VoltMatic will also charge and maintain medium to large 12V batteries [from 8Ah to 120Ah] making it suitable for motorcycles, motor boats and motor homes, as well as most cars and vans.
OptiMate 5 VoltMatic retains the fully automatic, 100% safe and easy-to-use characteristics of the 2 million OptiMates produced since 1995. Capable of recovering batteries retaining as little as 1 volt, OptiMate 5 identifies whether a battery is 6V or 12V and then runs a series of tests to see whether it requires desulphation or bulk charge. It then delivers charge in controlled pulses that equalise the voltage in each of the battery cells and checks that charge is being retained, before indicating that the battery has reached full charge.
Unlike other smart chargers, OptiMate has a unique 30 minute charge/30 minute rest cycle, during every hour of long-term maintenance charge, so it can be left connected to the battery while the vehicle is parked without any risk of overcharging or overheating.
In a weatherproof sealed enclosure with 2 metre long input and output cables, the OptiMate 5 is supplied with both a permanent ringlet connection lead that has a weatherproof cap and battery ‘crocodile’ clips for bench charging.
Compatible with STD lead-acid batteries (with removable filler caps), sealed AGM ‘maintenance free’, GEL and spiral cell types too, OptiMate 5 VoltMatic retails for £77.50 including VAT. For information on the complete range of OptiMate battery optimisers and accessories visit www.tecmate-int.com.
OptiMate’s new hand-held tester makes checking 12 volt battery and charging system quick and easy. Much more than a regular voltmeter, the OptiMate Test TS120 is a unique, hand-held, on-vehicle tester, which checks both the battery and charging system in one sequence:
1. Connect to the battery and the OptiMate TS120’s easy-to-read display instantly shows ‘rest’ voltage – an indication of battery health.
2. Next, start the vehicle and the OptiMate TS120 checks and displays the battery’s starting power. The lowest voltage will stay on display for a few seconds, as this is a good indication of the battery’s remaining starting capabilities.
3. Once the engine is running it then checks if the charging system is able to decently charge the battery.
Ideal for cars and motorcycles alike, the TS120’s three-phase test sequence allows any vehicle owner to see the health of the complete system and quickly diagnose whether a fault lies in the battery itself or with the alternator – saving both time and money replacing parts for new when not needed. An added benefit is the ability to check maximum charging voltage before replacing lead-acid batteries with lithium ones, as they cannot accept any overcharging.
The OptiMate TS120 is water-resistant and supplied with both crocodile clips and SAE connectors, selling for £29.99 including VAT. The test procedure can be seen in action at http://youtu.be/XDuaz-NlQo8. For information on the complete range of OptiMate battery optimisers and accessories visit www.tecmate–int.com.
Motorcycle Industry News and Images mainly from UK
The Distinguished Gentleman's RideWe are entering the 2024 The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride please donate
