I use a $20 special that has an auto shut off. I use it for both bikes and the car, I just plug in for a day every 2 weeks and switch when completed.

 

I got the same one as a gift 2 weeks ago

 

IMO.. Yep the only way to go...
The first time i saw a HD tender i almost threw up in my mouth. product/pricing...

The die hard is a box unit very well made listed at $29.99 but i bought mine for $22.00 + change out the door from Sears.


The HD looks el'cheepo wire and plug for $39.99 ....

 

Yeah, just plug into the pigtail. Deltran battery tender, HD branded(I think made by Deltran too), both come with the connector in the box. Don't have to worry bout overcharging with battery tenders....computer chip prevents it! Be careful with a trickle charger, though! Can overcharge with one of those! Plug into a tender for as long as you want...whenever you're not riding...battery will last!!!

 

I believe that's the advantage of using a 'tender' charger. They do not 'over charge' even if left on for months at a time.

 

i have one and have had 1 for all my bikes. but, i almost never use it. because, i figured the cost of the electricity multiplied by all winter for several winters might be more expensive than the new battery. plus, my batteries have allway lasted a long time. even in the winter my bike usually doesnt sit for more than a week or two without being ridden.

Enlighten me as to how much money it adds to your electric bill every month. And if it isnt noticeable, i will start plugging mine in.

 

bought my HD brand one with a gift card about two years ago. I use it anytime the bike is going to sit for more that a week or two. The HD one is the same as the Deltran battery tender. I acutally like the compact size, but then again, I used a gift card. you can get the same tender (w/o HD Label) for like $25. I think it's the battery tender Jr. from Deltran.

 

+1 I bought a Battery Tender from these people http://www.batterystuff.com/ I called them before buying and asked about the different types of chargers, etc. They said that the tenders were they way to go for reliability and longer battery life. You may pay a few bucks more for a tender, but over the long haul it's worth it. I just hook it up and walk away. It only charges when the battery needs it and then only a trickle. I talked to one of the local bike mechanics and he said that it just about tripled the life of batteries.

 

+1 on the battery tender, you can't go wrong with one of those.

 

don't worry about the cost of electricity.....probably costs the same as running a light bulb.....you will NOT notice a difference in your electric bill at all!!

I use the tender ALL the time!!!