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Never Jump Start A Lithium Battery Never Jump Start A Lithium Battery

Never Jump Start a lithium battery

Never Jump Start A Lithium BatteryFaulty batteries are the number one cause of vehicle breakdowns in the UK* but jump-starting a motorcycle with a flat lithium battery can do more harm than good and should not be attempted under any circumstances. That’s the stark warning from OptiMate, the battery-saving experts.

Manufacturers are increasingly fitting new motorcycles with lithium (LiFePO4) batteries, because they take up less space than the regular lead-acid equivalent. However, they tend to be smaller capacity (a lower Ah rating) and so discharge more quickly. A deeply discharged lithium battery needs to be recharged very carefully, but a high-voltage shock, like you get with a jump start, could cause severe damage, and even make it explode or catch fire.

Recovering the battery using a lithium-specific charger – such as the OptiMate Lithium 0.8A – is the safest way to bring a ‘dead’ battery back to life. It starts off charging slowly, to avoid overheating, balancing the four 3.2V cells inside the battery in the process, ensuring it is returned to peak condition.

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The OptiMate Lithium 0.8A retails for £64.99 – considerably less than a replacement lithium battery.

Of course, prevention is better is better than cure – connecting a bike to a smart charger when not in use will keep it fully charged. Prices start at £42.99 for the OptiMate 1 Duo, which will charge both lead-acid and lithium batteries thanks to its microprocessor controlled software.

For further information and to view the range, visit www.optimate1.com

*source: The AA https://www.theaa.com/breakdown-cover/advice/top-ten-breakdown-causes

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News Headlines - Weekly Round Up - Week Ending 23rd February 2025
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