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 require recharging (e.g cell phones, iPods, GPS units, satellite phones etc ) or need a direct 12V power source to operate them (e.g. air compressors, heated clothing etc).

The very nature of motorcycling would suggest that often a rider, by choice, does not always have access to an AC wall socket to recharge or operate these various peripherals.

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) is therefore necessary to take full advantage of products such as battery chargers, heated vests, cell phones, MP3 players, GPS units, camcorders and so on.

First and foremost a power point connected directly to the battery.

Such power points are divided into two categories – 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.

For motorcycle applications we do not however believe such a connection is ideal for the following reasons:

• There is no standard for cigarette connector dimensions i.e. there are two different sizes in common use
• Connectors of this nature often fit poorly and make unreliable connections, 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.
• It cannot always handle higher current loads that may be imposed by certain items e.g a tyre compressor
• Sensitive electronics (e.g. GPS units) that draw their power from such a connector could suffer damage as a result of an intermittent, bad connection

Hella outlet 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 higher current load than a cigarette connector.

If you are adding a new power point to your motorcycle, this is the type we recommend.

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 suitable.

Once a power point has been connected to a motorcycle there are a host of electrical connectors that can derive power from it.

A few examples:

Hella Dual USB & Volt Meter Motorcycle Power Point

Hella Dual USB & Cigarette Motorcycle power socket

 Cigarette connector with integrated handlebar bracket

 Hella to Dual USB Connection

Cigarette to Dual USB Connection

Dual Hella and Cigarette male connector

 Dual USB charger with integrated handlebar bracket

 SAE Variable Power Connectors

A SAE 12V Weatherproof Motorcycle Accessory Socket connects directly to your battery (also suitable for BMW Canbus systems).
This SAE Connector enables the connection of various other SAE connectors. Simply unplug one SAE component and plug in another.

Some of our SAE bike specific options:
1. A cigarette lighter connector to power items within your tank bag, while riding or to trickle charge your battery if your bike stands for long periods.

2. A jumper cable to jump start your bike from another vehicle/bike without having to remove the bikes panels or seat.

All SAE items sold apart or as a kit in the following permutations:

Kit A – SAE 12V Weatherproof Motorcycle Accessory Socket and cigarette lighter connector.

Kit B – SAE 12V Weatherproof Motorcycle Accessory Socket and jumper cables.

Kit C– SAE 12V Weatherproof Motorcycle Accessory Socket , cigarette lighter connector and jumper cables.