Solar Battery Tender?

[hardwickbv]

The building I park my trike in does not have power which is not a problem as I ride almost every day at this point.

But in Indiana at some point I will probably have to leave it sit for extended periods.

I have looked at some solar powered tender and was wondering if anyone else has experience with them.

Thanks Bob

 

[sjambok]

Solar Battery Charger

Whether or not a solar powered battery charger works depends upon two factors, first, the quality of the solar panel, and second, the amount of available sun. I have had excellent results solar charging batteries on a tender and jet skis in Florida. I think that there is generally more sun in Florida than in Indiana and that the cold temperatures that are reported in Indiana have a negative effect on solar panel efficiency. That said, solar panels, in my experience, get better and cheaper every year. If I lived where motorcycling was a part year activity, I would remove the battery and store it in a warm location on a Battery Tender or similar product.

 

[1dn5up]

If ya got a goodfully charged battery, and even if you get a few cloudy days, as long as it gets some charging, I would think your good to go. My try is good for 2 weeks or better with out a tender. :Shrug:

 

[jc1300]

I actually think Solar panels are more efficient in Cold weather....but cold weather usually means shorter days / less sun time.....so less power....jc

 

[Fredward]

My neighbor in KY uses one in a situation similar to yours. He keeps it outside a 2nd floor dormer window and has an extension cord for battery tenders from Amazon. The only problem he has in winter is snow on the panel, which is why he keeps it on the sill where he can easily clean it, but it's not likely to get stolen. It works great, probably because it really doesn't take a lot of "juice" to maintain the charge. He fires it up once a month at least.

I say go for it!

 

[Dirtydan]

I just googled it and there seems to be quite a few available.

 

[Trailridr]

Solar Charger

I've got 2 pickups that don't get driven much. I picked up 2 solar chargers from Harbor Freight and they seem to be working. Haven't had to jump 'em since I hooked them up.

Trail Rider