Forum

[Fido]

I have used the Optimate since getting my RE Classic EFI in October 2011. I have noticed that quite often when returning from a trip that the red LED comes on when I plug my Optimate back in. I don't hang around and when I return to my bike next day the green LEDs are both on as expected. The other day I removed the Optimate to wheel the bike out for a cleaning session. When I plugged it back in the red LED came on and I noticed it was still on a couple of hours later. On returning an hour later it was still on. I turned of the electricity, unplugged then plugged back in again came back a bit later and noticed the amber light flashing and then the green lights soon returned.

As I understand it, the red LED indicates a problem. Since my green lights eventually come on and I've had no trouble starting I've just ignored the red light when I've noticed it.

Just to complicate things, this is my second Optimate - I mucked up the first one by pulling the bike out before unplugging and it messed up the connection. But the red LED issue seems just the same.

Anyone experienced a similar issue?

[Edward]

Hi Fido
I had exactly the same with an Optimate 3 and not only when charging my Bullet, it did it with my other bikes. The Optimate 3 expired after I dropped it and I replaced it with an Optimate 4 which has had no such problems.
Regards Edward

[Les H]

Hi Fido..My Oximisor is similar. Once the red led lights up, it will not change from that state unless it is re-set by removing the charging leads. Usually the red light indicates the battery has a fault perhaps not holding a charge or high resistance. Of course it could also mean something is wrong with the charging leads or terminals, so if the battery is good it might be worth checking the connectors. If on connection you get a red light, sometimes by removing and reconnecting the charger several times you can over ride the initial problem inside the battery and carry on charging normally, but if it happens all the time something is very likely wrong with the battery. BUT as the charger contains some very sensitive electronics there could be something wrong with the charger itself ...either compare to another similar charger or try your charger with another known good/new battery and see what happens.

[Fido]

The light I'm concerned about is actually the orange light LED 3 not the red LED 2. If the LED doesn't quickly go out it's supposed to indicate a neglected or very flat battery. I have now arranged to visit my dealer tomorrow for a battery test to see if that is the problem rather than the Optimate.

[trevorch]

Hi Fido, Quite a new bike and battery, the EFI should really not need a battery charger, in fact battery chargers can quite easily damage a battery, since unless it properly self regulated to a trickle charge, you will cause the battery to give off gas and lower the electrolyte level. This intern reduces the batteries capacity and makes starting harder, leading to more use of charger. A vicious circle. My EFI is 10 moths old, is used two or three times a week, alway with headlamp on and has never seen a charger. I use kick start about 25% or less, being lazy and with a dodgy right knee. Check your electrolyte level, charge, then have it discharge tested. Maybe it needs replacing maybe not. A good battery properly maintained should operate well enough with the bikes own charger system, unless you intend to lay it pup for several months. In which case, best to remove the batters and store it some where dry and cool. Charge it properly and leave well slone until you want to put it back on the machine. Cheers TrevorCH

[Fido]

Dealer checked battery yesterday - it's fine. They still recommend connecting to the charger when the bike is not in use. No explanation for why the orange light comes on when it does. The charger does it's job overnight each time so I'm going to leave things as they are.

[Mike (Redcar)]

I'm with Trevor on this never use a charger unless the bikes not used and then charge once a month.

[Louth Enfield]

Get A C - Tek battery conditioner, they are much better than an optimate, and condition all my winter stored bikes and car. The fittings are much more robust and they beat Optimates in magazine tests.