Battery Tender Plus 6V Question - Harley Forum

nukeguy · #1 07-23-2008, 09:34 AM

Last night I accidently left my ignition on while dinning out. The bike barely turned over but did start and we made it home. Since this is a new 3 month old 08 FLHR would it be a good idea to purchase a battery charger? Or will riding re-charge the system? Granted I do need a battery tender for winter month storage. Thanks!

shovelmike · #2 07-23-2008, 10:09 AM

Welcome to the forum, nuke. It does confuse me that you titled your thread, "6v Batter Tender Question". You definitely want a 12v unit.
To address your question, yes it is a very good thing to have a battery charger, Fact: Batteries self discharge faster in hot, humid weather than in cold weather. Even if you ride fairly frequently it is best to hook up the Battery Tender frequently to keep the battery at its best.

evoKENevo · #3 07-23-2008, 10:24 AM

"Yep"...what Mike said !
and "Yep"...your bikes charging syst'm will recharge your battery while riding..assuming it's in good condition and you're not running too many accessories,etc., for it to catch up.

nukeguy · #4 07-23-2008, 02:16 PM

Thanks shovelmike & evoKENevo for the reply's. After leaving the bike ignition on for 1 1/2hrs it did hesitate when I tried to start her. I was kind of worried with my date looking even more concerned thinking the worst. A 12v battery tender plus is being ordered tomorrow. Thanks!

BaggerDad · #5 07-23-2008, 08:47 PM

Smart chargers are worth their weight in gold (or lead as in batterys). I have a couple of them and use them all the time in the down season and occasionally in the riding season too. Can't hurt.

I've had good luck with the Battery Tenders.

flathead512 · #6 08-16-2008, 07:09 PM

I use my battery tender year round, when ever the bike is in the gargage it is on the charger. Having the the battery at peak performance at all times saves wear and tear on the starter etc.

My bike is a 2004 and still has the original battery, however it is taking longer for the battery to come up to full charge. I think it maybe time for a new battery or a new charger any suggestions?

shovelmike · #7 08-16-2008, 10:08 PM

Hey there Flathead. The charger is most likely fine, the battery may be getting a little tired. It gets to be kind of a gamble how long to keep using the old battery. Shhhh....keep this quiet, I don't want to jinx myself..I'm still running the original battery in my '02. lol

flathead512 · #8 08-17-2008, 06:54 AM

Thanks Mike,

I'm hoping to make it through the rest of the season and replace the battery over the winter for the ride to Sturgis next year.