12 volt power supply.

[F6Ghostrider VRCC #32501]

So Im seriously considering installing a 12 volt power supply on my 98 Tourer. I've seen them range from $6.00 to $120.00.. BIG price difference. My question is, "What is the difference?" I understand some units are plug and play. Do you get what you pay for? I just want to be able to charge my IPhone and GPS while I ride without fear of a power spike. Obviously I would use an inline fuse. Experience with this is appreciated.

Jeff.

[hubcapsc]

I got something like this (probably exactly this) four or five years ago to hook
heated clothes to. I added a relay to it so it is only hot when the key is on, and it
is hanging there out of the way near the petcock (I don't want to think about what
might happen if my petcock ever started leaking on it  ) it was easy to hook up.
If you can get something from Aerostitch that they recommend for heated clothing
for $12, I think you shouldn't have to spend much more to get something that would
work great to charge a phone...

http://www.aerostich.com/clothing/heated-gear/cords-accessories/battery-fuse-cord.html



-Mike

[gordonv]

I've looked around, and didn't like the prices either. $29 +/- for a USB dual and handle bar mount. Found this at Princess Auto (Harbor Freight in the US), it was on sale for $3.99, and I mounted one on my GW in a pouch.



I own 2 more for mounting in other places, like the trunk, so I can power other things with a USB cable, while riding. Also, I wired them hot. I don't think I would ever leave my GPS or cell on the bike over night, therefore no relay.


Just remembered, here is my next project.



I bought a cheap Hong Kong temp gauge, and 3 of these miniature variable power supplies. My intention is to take the 12v bike power, and hard wire in my garage remote, a Blue Tooth for my cell connected to the intercom, and the temp gauge, all on a relay. These power supplies where like $3.10 ea, and I figure I'll water proof them by imbedding them in caulking.

[PAVALKER]

Aw heck.... just wire in a regular cigarette lighter/power port and get one of these....    You can power your USB devices, charge your phone and on those chilly days, use the wife's hair dryer to defrost the wind screen or slip it inside your jacket for a heater.   And you can power your electric razor and shave on the go as well.  Just think of the possibilities.....   

[RudyF6]

I use one of these:
 
http://www.amazon.com/Battery-Tender-081-0069-8-Cigarette-Disconnect/dp/B0041CDPQO

I leave it unplugged when not using it, pop the seat and plug in as needed.

[Gryphon Rider]

Aw heck.... just wire in a regular cigarette lighter/power port and get one of these....    You can power your USB devices, charge your phone and on those chilly days, use the wife's hair dryer to defrost the wind screen or slip it inside your jacket for a heater.   And you can power your electric razor and shave on the go as well.  Just think of the possibilities.....   

If your wife's hair drier is 150W or less, I hope her hair is really short, or you'll be waiting a LONG time for her to be ready!

[sandy]

Here's my installation under the seat behind the petcock. I use to use an MP3 player in my pocket with headphones.

[RandyZ]

I bought one from Cycle Gear. It was $20 but on sale for half price all the time. For $10 it mounts on handlebars and works fine to charge my phone.

[WamegoRob]

I use one of these:
 
http://www.amazon.com/Battery-Tender-081-0069-8-Cigarette-Disconnect/dp/B0041CDPQO

I leave it unplugged when not using it, pop the seat and plug in as needed.

Thanks Rudy.. now I, too, will have one of these (in two days) =)

[F6Ghostrider VRCC #32501]

Here's my installation under the seat behind the petcock. I use to use an MP3 player in my pocket with headphones.

That's pretty cool Sandy.  What is that off of/from? I like how it's up & out of the way.
Is that bracket hand made or did it come with the power supply?