Anyway, although I am happy to do many of the more simple jobs on my (Deb and Adam’s) bike, playing with wiring is not something I relish. Having purchased an Optimate IIISP, I found out that they do a number of accessories to help with power supply solutions. For more information www.accumate.co.uk First of all I attached the permanent connection to the battery. This enables you to connect the Optimate without disconnecting the battery, or, having to use the old type crocodile clips. The lead comes compete with an in-line fuse. This lead comes with the charger, but can be purchased separately. This permanent connector allows you then to use the power socket accessory.

It’s now a simple matter of plugging in the power supply socket.
 

Then whatever charging lead you need to use can be connected as long as it has a car cigarette lighter type connector or you can use the type of cable connector used by Acumate to connect direct to that lead.

Here we have a mobile phone charging ( obviously ! ). I usually lay the wiring so that it comes from under the seat, into my tank bag. I’m sure you could just as easily put it in your pocket……just remember it’s there when you get off your bike !
 

 
This set up can be used for all the usual power supply needs such as mobile and GPS, but a few words of caution. It is not on the ignition, so you should not leave things plugged in whilst the engine is switched off, otherwise you could run your battery down. And, don’t try using this as a cigarette lighter, the wiring is not designed to take it!

The three bikes in our family all now have this power supply set up.

The total costs involved were £36 for the charger, which includes one permanent battery lead (you don’t have to purchase the charger but it is a very good piece of kit), and £7 for the power socket lead.

Only basic tools required, and depending on how easy the access is to your battery, takes 15 minutes to complete.

 

< Back