In this guide, we’re going to examine the best dirt, MX and adventure motorcycle battery chargers that actually work for offroad bikes.
Being stranded in the middle of nowhere isn’t much fun. While you can roll-start or (if your bike allows it) kick start your engine into life, there are times when this isn’t practical. You’re just too exhausted after the previous days ride to be hassled with this.
There are many good motorcycle battery charging devices on the market. However, the challenge is finding one that actually works for the long term. Just like your bike, reliability is key. You don’t want to buy a unit that doesn’t work when you need it the most when trail riding or worldwide adventuring.
We’ve essentially done the research so you can find the best battery charger for your adventure, dirt or MX motorcycle that actually work.
Let’s begin.
Best Motorcycle Battery Chargers
There are so many options available to find the right jump starter for your motorcycle, with some of these working well for jump-starting too. Those in the United States will find different options to those in Canada and Australia.
Essentially it’s hard work to find a commonly used model that is reliable for the long term if you haven’t had much industry exposure. As you’re doing your research, this means you’re looking for something that others have used.
So let’s begin this list:
1. Schumacher SP1297 12V Fully Automatic Battery Charger and 3A Maintainer
There is a reason why have started with this one. Schumacher have designed this motorcycle jump starter exclusively for motorcycles.
The small size means that you could store it inside your panniers. The only challenge is that you’ll need another motorcycle nearby as it doesn’t store power.
2. Noco Genius10 10-amp Smart Charger
Here’s another small unit: The Noco Genius10 is an excellent small-scale battery charger that’s powerful enough to also jump-start your 4×4.
This 10 amp system is best for hungry power users. However, just like the Schumacher, you will need to have a power source nearby.
3. CTEK 40-206 MXS 5.0-12 Volt Battery Charger
Here we have another battery charger that’s perfect for motorcycles. It’s small, light and compact and without a Chinese-feel to it.
One of the best parts is the 5-year warranty. As we regularly quote products that we want to last a long time, this is what we refer to.
4. DBPOWER 800A 18000mAh Portable Motorcycle Jump Starter
Looking for a motorcycle jump starter and battery charger in one? Then you can’t go past the DBPOWER 800A – an awesome red rocket.
You can even jump start your motorcycle up to 10 times before running flat. The LCD screen also gives you feedback so you can see the remaining power.
5. OzCharge RescueMate 12-Volt Super Capacitor Jump Starter – 750 Amp
Australia to the rescue! The OzCharge is a jump starter without a battery for motorcycles of all shapes and sizes. Literally – up to 8L.
Now – you’re going to need some dollars. These units cost $200USD/$350AUD but when you’re stuck on your own on a trail, then this is what you need.
Buying Guide
Now while we’ve covered the best jump starters and battery chargers for adventure motorcycles, let’s cover what beginners should be looking for. After all, you might not even know anything about how these devices work and function in the real world.
Go for high capacity
The higher capacity models mean that you can charge more than one device at the same time. Let’s say you’re resting at a hotel after a long ride. Well – you can then potentially charge your phone, computer and motorcycle off the same device.
Avoid cheap Chinese brands
When writing a guide on the best motorcycle battery chargers, we can’t recommend super cheap Chinese copies. Doing so could cause a fellow motorcyclist to become stuck on the journey due to inferior products being used. Go for brands that are known and trusted in the ADV marketplace.
Choose high peak currents
The higher the peak, the more chances you have of starting not only your motorcycle but larger bikes as well. Even bigger vehicles like cars, boats and earth-moving equipment. Why buy 2 devices when you can achieve the same outcome with one device?
In Summary
We hope that has helped you figure out which model will suit you best. Most of these are expensive but they are also the best. You can certainly find cheaper versions but they often don’t live up to initial expectations.
Look for a model that’s going to last for the long haul. When you’re doing a round-the-world expedition, then you require such a high standard for your gear. Don’t skimp on a cheap Amazon special (non-affiliate link) but instead go for the ruggedness of the gear that we’ve shown here.
At the same time, also learn how to roll-start a motorcycle so you can get yourself out of a sticky situation on the trails.