I'm a GSer!!!!

[Shaggy33]

I've done it! Bought an 1150 yesterday after missing out on a couple. Chuffed to bits with the beast, 2001 1150GS in Mandarin (not first choice of colour but growing on me!). 40k miles but in stunning condition.
Got loads to learn and in preparation have bought a workshop manual as I intend to do basic maintenance myself.
Not used to these modern bikes with batteries after my Red Pig (XR650), whats the best optimate type thingy to buy to ensure battery is kept in good nick??
I'm sure I will be annoying everyone on this forum with lots of questions over the coming months and years but as for now?.......I'm gonna ride the beauty!!
Cheers for now

 

[motobiker]

There's a lot of debate on optimisers. personally I believe riding the thing is the best way to keep the battery topped up.

I own an optimate but only use it now as a 'charger' - not had to use it since the winter though. for me the obvious sign that the battery is in need of a boost is when the ABS faults at start up. but I've found that just a ride to the end of the road then off/on at the junction is enough to give it that 'kick'

plenty who believe that leaving the optimate connected all the time is the way forward - but seems pointless to me. but then i don't have a 1001 electrical gadgets on mine. just a pair of spots and heated grips.

well done on taking the plunge and good luck with the new bike.

 

[Invicta Moto]

Welcome to the Mandarin Dream Team.

 

[Shaggy33]

I'm a gser

thanks for that advice, guess I'll ride it to keep it topped up then! I don't have loads of gadgets either, just grips so that'll save the battery.

Mandarin Dream Team. Now I like the sound of that!

 

[kirk71]

Good on ya fella, who cares what colour they are really, at least you are riding one.
in regards trickle chargers i must say we sell heaps of the Optimate 4.
if you ride your bike a fair bit then you wont really need it yet.
but the waterproof lead is a good point on them, plus yes you can leave them on for any lenght of time with no problems.
anyways, get out and enjoy your new toy

 

[ahebron]

Isn't Mandarin BWM speak for Ginga

 

[DutchBryn]

Well done Shaggy!

If I'd got the choice (& more patience), I'd have gone for a Mandarin one.
A much better colour than that thin yellow that came along later. (imho..)
The Germans - where I bought mine, seem to have been into 'Grey-Primer',
the year/model I was after.

 

[Glenboy]

Welcome to the Mandarin Dream Team.

+1. Enjoy.