In an era in which creature comforts and rider conveniences are at a premium, why is it that the positioning of a 12V power socket is often an afterthought for many motorcycle manufacturers? For TecMate, delivering powerful and reliable USB chargers that fit well and are positioned conveniently, and won’t kill the motorcycle battery, are major considerations.
The most recent offering, the OptiMate USB O-115, is a great fit for Triumph and Ducati Multistrada Enduro models. The popular O-105 90° dual 3300mA USB charger has been designed to fit BMWs and other motorcycles that have their 12V power socket fitted on a side panel or on the side of the motorcycle.
The new O-115 in-line (or 180°) version came about when TecMate realised that the position of the 12V socket on Triumph Tiger 800 motorcycles (for example), tucked into the centre of the steering assembly next to the ignition key socket, limits space for a plugged in USB charger and cables – it simply isn’t ergonomic, increasing the chances that it catches or touches the steering bar assembly when turned hard right during parking lot manoeuvres.
Enter the O-115 in-line, with the USB charger body moving the USB sockets and inserted cables out of the way. Sometimes it is the small things that make the big difference! It’s also the perfect solution on motorcycles such as the Ducati Multistrada Enduro, which has its 12V power socket tightly tucked into a corner on the front dash.
The O-115 delivers 3300mA of USB charging power through two sockets lined with a unique weatherproof seal and cap system – TecMate say that you can plug in any USB cable and the connection is rendered instantly waterproof. The microprocessor-controlled motorcycle battery protection senses if the motorcycle has been parked, allowing up to 3 hours of charging before shutting down, or, if it senses the motorcycle battery is down to 50% charge, it shuts down immediately.
TecMate CEO/CTO Martin Human described the USB charger strategy by saying “we cannot control where the motorcycle companies decide to put their power sockets, but we can give their customers a USB charger that delivers a user-friendly solution that speaks to the real world circumstances in which they do their miles. This thinking has brought about a number of innovative solutions, and we have more to come.”
TECMATE
www.optimate1.com
