New to the OptiMate range, the O-40S SAE Socket is a quick and easy way to add an accessible connection point for battery charges and other devices to your bike.
The OptiMate O-40S is a universal, weatherproof, panel-mount SAE power point that can be retro-fitted to almost any machine. Quick and easy to install, it hard-mounts to the bike’s bodywork and is plugs into an OptiMate battery lead, providing a handy point through which to connect an OptiMate charger when not riding – no need to remove body panels or seat for access, and no more fiddly crocodile clips.
The ability to power a sat nav or smartphone, as well as accessories like heating clothing, is important for many riders, but despite this most machines don’t come with the capability built-in. Fortunately OptiMate produces a wide variety of cables and adaptors, including USB and DIN types, that can be plugged into an SAE socket, so gadgets can be powered on the move.
Like OptiMate’s entire range of connectors and cables, weatherproofing comes as standard: the O-40S has both an internal seal, to help keep moisture out when an SAE connector is plugged in, and a rubber cap to seal out the elements when not in use.
It’s also tested to -40°C/-40°F, so is safe to use year-round.
The OptiMate O-40S has a 6” (15cm) lead and fits an Ø18mm drilled hole. It retails at just £11.99 and is available from all authorised retailers and is covered by a 3-year warranty for complete peace of mind.
New for 2019, the OptiMate1 Duo takes battery charging and maintenance to the next level, automatically recognising whether a battery is lead acid or Lithium Ion, so the user can just plug-in and go.
Faced with a new or a recently acquired used bike, owners are often unaware of which type of battery their machine is fitted with – lead acid or the increasingly popular Lithium Ion (Li-ion).
Using the wrong charger with either type, but particularly Li-ion, can have catastrophic consequences, damaging the battery beyond repair over a relatively short period of time.
OptiMate 1 Duo uses the latest charging technology to automatically determine the type of battery is it connected to, and selects the charging programme to suit – so you don’t have to.
It’s ideal for owners of multiple machines too – no need for different chargers and no danger of attaching them to the wrong machine.
There’s no risk of over- or under-charging and the OptiMate1 Duo has built-in spark suppression, with automatic shut-down, if short-circuited or the battery is disconnected. The unique 24-7-365 programme means the user can just ‘connect and forget’.
It’s safe to use with all 12 volt lead-acid, filler cap and wet cell, sealed AGM (MF) or GEL; and 12.8/13.2V lithium (LiFePO4) batteries.
The OptiMate1 Duo retails for 42.99 including VAT – less than the price of most replacement batteries – and comes with everything needed to get connected.
Designed for owners of new (and nearly new) motorcycles, the OptiMate1+ smart charger maintains 12V batteries, for peak performance, as well as extending their lifespan, way beyond the average (4 years).
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.
The increasing complexity of electrical systems, on-board computer diagnostics and sophisticated anti-theft devices, puts strain on a battery from the get-go, and without proper attention it can be damaged beyond repair over a relatively short period of time.
The OptiMate1+ delivers precise micro processor controlled charging and long term maintenance, whilst providing power to the on-board computer and anti theft alarm – crucial for bikes that aren’t ridden regularly and those stored over winter.
It’s safe to use with all 12V STD (with removable filler caps), sealed AGM (absorbed glass mat) and sealed GEL lead-acid batteries, and the unique 24-7-365 programme means the user can just ‘connect and forget’. A low volt start will recharge batteries from as low as 4V and used regularly it’s capable of increasing battery life by up to 400%.
There is no risk of overcharging and the OptiMate1+ has built-in spark suppression, with automatic shut-down, if short-circuited or the battery is disconnected.
The OptiMate1+ retails for £42.99 including VAT – less than the price of most replacement batteries – and comes with everything needed to get connected.
Lithium Ion (Li-ion) batteries are becoming more commonplace in our daily lives and can be found in most smartphones, laptops and power tools, as well as OEM recommended batteries in our motorcycles.
KTM, Husqvarna, Honda and Yamaha now fit 12 Volt Li-ion batteries to selected models, because they’re compact and lightweight, yet deliver high voltages. For these reasons, they’re also an increasingly popular aftermarket choice for motorcyclists, especially for racing and custom builds.
However, Li-ion batteries are considerably more expensive than the lead acid units they’re designed to replace, and are particularly vulnerable to damage and failure if they’re not treated and maintained correctly. OptiMate – battery charging experts and creators of a range of specific Lithium chargers – explain how to identify, care for, charge and maintain Li-ion batteries properly:
#1 How do I know if my bike is fitted with an Li-ion battery?
Although Lithium Ion is the general group name used for all Lithium batteries, there are many different types. The only type used as engine starter batteries is Lithium Iron Phosphate – otherwise known as Lithium Ferrous Phosphate or LFP (chemical formula LiFePO4).
Lithium engine starter batteries are normally either 12.8V or 13.2V, and will generally be marked as ‘Li-ion’, ‘LFP’ or ‘LiFePO4’.
If you’re still not sure, test your machine’s charging system to see if it is compatible with a Li-ion battery: if the charging system is putting out the safe charging rate of 14.4V, your battery is probably Li-ion; if it is putting out more than 14.6V to the battery, it’s likely to be lead acid.
Note: If you’re thinking of upgrading your bike from lead acid to Li-ion, carry out the same test. The OptiMate Test TS120 – Battery Monitor and Tester will display the battery rest Voltage, the charge system voltage with the engine running and the cranking voltage too, so you can quickly and easily identify the type and condition of your battery and charging system.
#2 How not to treat an Li-ion battery
Li-ion batteries are particularly vulnerable to damage if left attached to a machine and unattended, and if not maintained or charged in the right way.
The first and most common way to damage a Lithium battery is by overcharging it – if it is subjected to a voltage of above 14.6V, rapid cell damage will occur. Excessive overcharging can cause a Li-ion battery to heat up and eventually self destruct: burning from the inside out.
The second way to damage a Li-ion battery is to discharge it to a very low voltage. They often have a lower Ah capacity, so can flatten quickly if left connected for long periods – and once discharged they can be difficult to recover.
The third way to damage a Li-ion battery is to attempt to re-charge it using a lead acid battery charger/optimiser. Lead acid chargers/optimisers are designed to deliver high current at low voltage and then taper off, whereas a lithium battery at low voltage needs a controlled low current charge until it reaches 12.8V. It is crucial to use a charger/optimiser specifically designed for Li-ion batteries.
The fourth and final way to kill an Li-ion battery is by not maintaining it at all. LFP batteries are typically 1/3 or ¼ the Amp-hour of the equivalent lead acid battery and will drain three to four times faster when connected to a bike.
Note: A Li-ion battery cannot and must not be jump-started. This will not only damage the battery itself, but can also cause problems with the bike’s charging system and/or voltage regulator.
#3 How do I look after my Li-ion battery properly?
Although LFP batteries are made to be replacements for 12 Volt lead acid batteries, they are charged and maintained in a completely different way. The charge voltage range for Lithium batteries is much more limited compared to a 12V lead acid battery, so you must always use a Lithium-specific battery charger.
The safe charging rate is 14.4V, and the charge rate must not exceed 14.6V. To avoid problems with your Li-ion 12V starter battery, and ensure you are properly and safely maintaining and charging it, use the following steps:
Check battery and charging system. Test your machine’s battery to make sure it’s in good condition. Also test the charging system to see if it is working properly and is putting out the safe charging rate of 14.4V.
Always use a specific lithium battery charger. The OptiMate Lithium series will safely recover, charge and maintain your lithium battery at all times: the OptiMate Lithium 0.8A for home use and the fast-charging Lithium 5A for motor sports.
Monitor and maintain your lithium battery at all times. To help prevent discharging and overcharging, the O127 monitor will inform you about the charge status of your lithium battery at all times, helping to prevent overcharging and over-discharging.
Note: All OptiMate lithium products are safe to use with all LiFePO4/LFP batteries. All the chargers in the OptiMate Lithium Charger range maintain LiFePO4/LFP batteries and protect against voltage drop. Fully automated, they assesses the battery’s condition and select the charge programme to suit. Progress is tracked to prevent unnecessary charging; an alternating ‘charge and rest’ maintenance programme protects the battery against over-discharge.
OptiMate launched its battery saving motorcycle charger in 1995 and continues to lead the field to this day. For details of the complete range of battery optimisers, monitors, USB connectors and accessories visit www.tecmate.com
Battery Tender 1.25 amp Dual Selectable Power Tender
Ideal for all types of motorcycle and vehicle, this premium Battery Tender offers the user a power tender solution for all common types of battery. It comes complete with both types of terminal connectors in the box.
Specifications
Output: 6v/12v switchable @ 1.25A
Input Voltage: 220 to 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz
Charger Weight: 612 grams
Size: 17.2 x 9.3 x 4.9 cm
ISM microcontroller constantly updates charge sequence for smooth transitions between charging steps
Spark Proof
Short circuit protected
Safety timer
Designed for AGM, standard, flooded, GEL or lithium (LiFeP04) batteries
Four out of five UK adults now have a smartphone* and with most devices offering music, turn-by-turn navigation as well as web connectivity, video recording, photos and communication, on-bike USB charging is fast becoming essential.
Finding a charger that can stand up to the rigours of the riding environment, while delivering the correct amount of charge, and without draining the motorcycle’s battery, isn’t straightforward, with many cables and ports falling short.
New to the OptiMate range, the USB O-108 delivers 3.3A – powerful enough even for the latest smartphones with USB-C charge connectors, and has built-in microprocessor controlled battery protection to prevent the motorcycle’s battery from being discharged.
Charging is limited to a maximum of three hours, and the O-108 USB automatically cuts charging to the USB device if the vehicle’s battery voltage drops below 12.3V (approximately 50% charge remaining in an AGM battery).
An easy-to-read LED display enables the user to see the vehicle charging system voltage at a glance.
Purpose-built for motorcycles, all OptiMate USB chargers are 100% true power rated, and deliver a continuous and consistent charge. They also come with a built-in Apple ‘handshake’, to guarantee iPhones and iPads charge at the appropriate maximum.
Weatherproofing comes as standard, to prevent moisture causing problems and guarding against any issues they may cause with the bike’s electrical system.
The OptiMate USB O-108 On-Bike Charger retails at £32,99 including VAT. For details of the complete range of OptiMate USB connectors, leads and accessories – as well as their battery optimisers – visit www.tecmate.com.
Maximise your vehicles potential with Battery Tender® by Deltran. Battery Tender®’s BTP Microprocessor Technology and quick-connect convenience automatically maintains the batteries in all your vehicles. They are ready to go when you are! You just set it and forget it, saving you time and money in replacement batteries.
The entry level Battery Tender® Junior 800 plugs directly into any household mains socket and is suitable for all types of battery, including Lithium. This compact and lightweight unit is an affordable solution to keeping your vehicle batteries in optimum condition.
Battery Tender® Junior 800
Output 6v/12v @ 800mA
Input voltage: 220 to 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz
Charger weight: 467 grams
Size: 8.3 x 5 x 3.5 cm
Plugs directly into the domestic wall socket
ISM micro-controller constantly updates smooth transitions between charging steps
Spark Proof
Safety Timer
Short circuit protected
Selectable for AGM, flooded, GEL or lithium (LiFeP04) batteries
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.
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
Yamaha is very pleased to announce that it has added the cost effective range of BS Batteries to its Genuine Yamaha Parts line-up and they are now available through its Authorised dealer network for all Yamaha models.
The winter period is typically a time when a lot of Yamaha owners have put their motorcycle into hibernation until spring when the weather improves. However, whilst this may avoid the inevitable impact of the seasonal conditions on external parts of a motorcycle, one component that can often be over-looked but will degrade over time if not suitably maintained is the battery.
Whilst many owners will make use of a ‘trickle charger’ to look after their Yamaha’s battery health, for some owners, this is not practical and a battery will eventually need replacing. In this instance, an expired motorcycle battery can be very inconvenient, as well as requiring an untimely expense to replace it.
You get what you pay for when it comes to replacement parts, but in the case of BS Batteries, you get a whole lot more for your money. With the introduction of the economy line-up of BS Batteries to its Genuine Yamaha Parts range, the new products not only complement the premium OEM-fitment Yuasa products, but they also allow Yamaha to cater for its customers who have a much broader range of budgets and requirements, without sacrificing quality.
Key benefits for the new BS Batteries range include:
Prefilled and factory activated – fit and go
No acid handling for safety
Extended service life with a higher lifecycle
Maintenance-free
High specification and quality engineering developed through OEM supply
Very competitive prices
With prices starting from as little as £14.69 inc. VAT, the new BS Battery range provides high quality engineering and specification at an affordable price point.
What’s more, Yamaha also offers a range of maintenance products including the YEC-8 and YEC-40 battery chargers. Featuring special charge/discharge functions to maintain battery health and in some cases, functions to recover weak batteries. There is also a collection of accessories available to make it even easier to monitor your batteries condition, such as the ‘Comfort-indicator’ plug, that gives a clear indication of the status of your battery via a series of LED indicator lights, as well as a charging port.
For more details on BS Batteries and Yamaha battery chargers, please contact your nearest Authorised Yamaha dealer or use the Yamaha dealer locator at www.yamaha-motor.co.uk
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.
Now available from Datatool, the new Smart Charger is the only intelligent charger on the market with an inbuilt hanging hook. No longer do you have to leave chargers laying on the workshop or garage floor, instead take advantage of the unique design to hang Smart Charger safely and visibly from the handlebars. When Smart Charger is not in use, the hook folds conveniently away into the rear of the unit.
The Datatool Smart Charger has been designed in the UK and offers the full range of recovery, charge and maintenance modes, all clearly identified by the rotary design LED indicators.
Datatool’s specialist motorcycle battery conditioner systems are designed to keep your motorcycle battery in its optimum state, especially during long periods of inactivity or cold weather conditions. A must for all motorcycle owners that can even pay for itself by saving the life of your motorcycle battery.
Protect your battery by installing the premium brand battery conditioner.
The full feature set includes:
· Designed for motorcycles
· Fold out convenience hook
· 1.2 amp charge rate
· Sulphation diagnostics
· Ability to recover discharged batteries
· Assured full charge
· Internal battery problem indicator
· Automatic and continual rechecking
· Automatic restart of charging cycle
· Month after month maintenance
· Suitable for 2-50 AH batteries
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
