Rad Mini Step-Thru Battery Questions

[newbert]

I'm a new owner of a Mini ST, and took my first ride today for a total of about 8 miles in 36 minutes. The battery indicator still shows it as fully charged, although I did use Power Assist thru most of the ride.

How important is it to follow the "battery balancing" procedures outlined on page 25 of the manual. Should I follow that procedure after such a short ride? And...

Does the battery really need to be turned OFF when charging (as suggested on page 21 of the manual)? Can't I just charge it while it's still on the bike (with bike power turned off) without hunting for the battery key to turn the battery off each time?

Thanks!
Bert

 

[AHicks]

I would top the battery off with a full charge the first few times you ride it (over 10 miles or so, not every trip around the block). From there, balance charging IS important for best performance and longevity, but may not be necessary EVERY charge.

It's going to take you a while to get used to the gauge, or to be more clear, what the gauge is telling you. My bike won't drop a bar (1 of 5) until it gets to about 15 miles, but will then drop them more frequently. They aren't 100% accurate. More like just to give you an idea. Kinda like a lot of the gas gauges used in cars/PU's.

No, the battery does not need to be turned off - but don't loose those keys! I fastened mine to the charger so they won't be misplaced. -Al

 

[newbert]

Thanks, Al!