I have a 2014 and just plug the Optimate 4 into the power port on the right front panel. If something isn't working correctly with that, I've not noticed.

 

Same here. No issues.

 

The canbus version of the optmate 4 allows you to select between operating modes. Normal or canbus. I use canbus through the plug.

 

Plus 1 on all of the above!

 

In case you prefer the direct battery connection, both of the GTL's I've purchased came with dealer installed SAE plugs attached directly to the battery... with the suggestion they can be used for tending the battery.

I can only guess they wouldn't tell me that unless they have not seen complaint reports... or maybe they're just out of the loop, idk.

I've tended my battery with the direct attached SAE plug with no issues.

 

I wired and hooked up standard battery tender.
I haven't had an issue yet after about a month of use.

 

Thanks for the feedback folks..... I'm minded to hard wire straight to the battery as normal however the plug in via socket seems more convenient. I guess if I took a Vote from members it would fall into personal preference and around 50/50 either method.

I should read my Owners Manual and see what Ye Old Bavarian Motor Works advises.... accepting that their recommendation will also likely have a positive affect on their accessory sales! :wink:

 

Just set the Optimate to canbus operation and plug it into the socket in the right fairing which is already there, it's dead easy to plug it in and out from there after each run.

 

I use a $25 dollar Shumacher float charger from Walmart. Wired direct to the battery. Works fine on the GTL and the Wing. Wing battery is original fron 2009.

 

Early 1600's had canbus issues, several step process to connect charger to onboard socket
To avoid that issue, many of us hard wired a Bmw socket(with fuse) direct to battery. A added bonus is this socket can be used for heated gear and tire inflator

 

.....and I took the plunge and just hooked up the Optimate Lead direct to the battery! ..... as mentioned in another thread reply.... why oh why am I "fannying" about deciding on which method? ......because it's a New Born Bike rather than a 1 Year Old which I would simply make a decision on and get on with it! .....with a New Bike everything becomes a NASA Type Operation with planning, strategy & consequences etc :laugh:

.....my Alter Ego said..... "for feck's sake, just get on with it!" .....so, I did .....apparently no one noticed, my bike's still there and the world remains spinning..... f o r n o w? :laugh::laugh::grin:

 

Thanks all for your replies :wink:

 

If it needs charging, its not being ridden enough.

For the times when I've had it all turned on coming home, then its a direct connection to the battery via a flying hard wired lead

 

You're right..... it will need charging for 6 months... when I tuck it away for winter, from the snow, ice, salt on the roads... otherwise a bike in Scotland, UK would look like a sack of rusty old nails come the following Spring.

And as we know, the Optimate simply maintains and doesn't overcharge the battery. I've used them for years and haven't needed to replace any bike batteries.

I don't do stellar mileages as Scotland isn't Big enough..... maybe someone will photoshop Scotland the Country over an image of the US then one can see why I only do around 8,000 - 12,000 miles a year. I don't ride anywhere but Scotland, with empty roads & magnicent country/scenery there is no need to go beyond the borders of Scotland.