Motorcycle 12 Volt Connectors & Power Points
Today, more than ever, there is a need for a standardised 12 volt power source on motorcycles for the connection of electrical gadgets and charging the bikes battery.
We tend to overlook just how many modern items either require to be recharged (e.g cell phones, iPods, GPS units, satellite phones) or require a direct 12V power source to run them (e.g. air compressors, heated clothing).
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The very nature of adventure motorcycling would suggest that a rider, often by choice, does not always have access to an AC wall socket to recharge or operate these various peripherals.
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A bi-directional power point that can utilize the motor cycles battery/charging system (one that can deliver current, as well as take charging current) goes a step further to take full advantage of products such as battery chargers, heated vests, cell phones, MP3 players, GPS units, camcorders and so on.
WHAT DO I NEED?
First and foremost a power point that is connected directly to the battery.
There are two categories of power points - the cigarette connector and the Norm outlet /Hella/ BMW-style connector
Cigarette Connector
Traditionally most power points have been of the cigarette connector type. These have gained wide use as virtually every car has a cigarette lighter, resulting in automotive accessories in the main being sold with cigarette-type connectors.
Female: Fits on bike
Male: Fits on accessory
For motorcycle applications we do not however believe such a connection is ideal for the following reasons:
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There is no standard for cigarette connector dimensions i.e. there are two different sizes in common use.
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These connectors often fit poorly and make unreliable contact, particularly on the move as they are susceptible to vibration. In our opinion this type of connector is only adequate when the bike is stationary.
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It cannot adequately handle higher current loads imposed by certain items e.g a tyre compressor.
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Sensitive electronics such as GPS units that draw their power from such a connector could suffer damage as a result of an intermittent, bad connection.
Hella Connector
These fittings have rapidly gained popularity over the past few years and are fitted as a standard item to many new BMW ,Triumph and other brands of motorcycles.
A Hella outlet (also known as a BMW outlet / DIN socket) is built to one standard dimension, is very rugged and, most importantly, ensures a tight, reliable connection. Furthermore it can handle a much higher current load than a cigarette connector.
If you are adding a new power point to your motorcycle, this is the type we recommend.
Female: Fits on bike
Male: Fits on accessory
THERE ARE TWO OPTIONS WHEN MOUNTING A POWER POINT TO YOUR BIKE
1. With the integrated bracket built into the cigarette or dual USB connector. This format allows you not only to mount the connector on your handlebar but also to any other part of your bikes frame.
2. Should your handlebar mounting area be restricted then the optional handlebar mounting bracket would be the alternative.
I HAVE A POWER POINT ON MY BIKE. WHAT ELSE DO I NEED ?
Having a power point on your motorcycle facilitates a whole range of electrical connector options.