Optimate charger on 800GS

[dommiek]

BMW recommend using their battery charger but as I already have an Optimate is it safe to use this onmy 800gs? I'll be wiring direct to the battery.
I understand if the battery is disconnected the throttle grip has to be twisted back 3 times before starting the engine, is this with the ignition turned on?

 

[bansk65]

I use the optimate, bought a plug off e-blag that fits directly into the fag lighter socket, works fine, never had any problems.

 

[Northants Rob]

Wiring direct to your battery will be fine - no problems at all!

 

[Sooty09]

Its best not to fully remove the battery connections, you will have to get the service warning reset at a main dealer. Make a temp connection (any thin cable will do as there will be very little current) between the battery terminals and leads before undoing the clams to fit your charger leads.
There is nothing on the workshop CD about twisting the throttle three times. If its required it will be with power on, perhaps its to help recallibrate the throttle position sensor?

 

[Dean]

BMW recommend using their battery charger but as I already have an Optimate is it safe to use this onmy 800gs? I'll be wiring direct to the battery.
I understand if the battery is disconnected the throttle grip has to be twisted back 3 times before starting the engine, is this with the ignition turned on?

I found the problem with the BMW unit I got when i purchased the bike does not Charge the battery once it is flat as a flounder (dead as a dead thing)

But now have a waterproof dongle (permanantly conected) which heads direct to the battery so when I'm not out on my bike Dailey I hook up to my Optimate (which will charge from no charge)

BTB

I'm sure when leaving the bike for days the fitted Alarm receiver is using electricity and slowly draining the Battery not sure about the 3 times thing but I do throw salt over my shoulder when eating sometimes this may help

 

[dommiek]

...thanks for the responses guys. I'll go ahead and wire up the optimate !

 

[SteveT]

Wired mine straight to the battery when I got the bike 2 months ago - no problems, even after disconnecting the battery for a short while whilst I sorted the Optimate lead & connections.

I also use the lead to power my Sat-Nav without any problems

SteveT