My custom 75/6 is nearing completion, the one thing I'm stuck on is what battery to buy and where to put it. It's got a kickstart and I'm happy to use it so don't need a huge battery. I thought about behind the sump but I think I'd lose the centre stand - I thought about fabricating a new stand anyway so this could be an option. I also thought about making two small aluminium boxes and mounting them either side of the seat behind the shocks, one for battery and one for tools. I've got a flat seat so can't hide it in the hump, don't want to lose the open-ness of the frame by putting it in its original position. Had also thought about putting a really small battery in the air box?! Any thought/pictures?
Yep, that is a good question.... I have decided that I will build a box and mount it upside down below the seat. That will clear the space between the airbox and the rear tire, be original (not many are mounted that way) and you are close to the original location. It will give a "look through" view that is desireable, you will not loose the centerstand (sorry, ride too much, too much maintenance to do) and most off all it is "custom". I have seen some pictures of it and I like the look.
check this thread: My R80RT CAFE after 13months of wrenching. You can tell I have not figured out how to directly link on that....
The kick starter on a 5 speed transmission will not last. They break. Call it a flawed design. Even when they work they will often not start the bike. Some of the small batteries will start the bike. Keep the electric starter.
currently there are only two LiFePO4 battery that I would recommend for airheads. Earth-X ETX36C and Shorai LFX36. both have outstanding performance and have plenty of reserve amp hour capacity for cold weather. Earth-X ETX36C (3lb 11oz) has the smallest footprint. both will do the job nicely... drawback is cost $$$. Shorai LFX36 has survived a one year long term test with flying colors on R80G/S... Earth-X ETX36 is just getting started on G/S. be careful when mounting. make dead certain positive cannot short out. it's a crappy way to loose a custom bike from a fire. lithium battery discharge at huge rates ..... easily hot as an arc welder. visit my Li-ion battery testing thread for more details... link in sig http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=757934&page=21 Earth-X ETX36C and Shorai LFX36 (left)
