Q: Steve in Chicago asks “if I use your regulator (VR-0001) can I do away with my battery”
A: We don't recommend using this part without a battery. The battery is required on road bikes to ensure the lights and horn are functional even if the engine cuts out. This is especially important at night. You can find out what is allowed in your area from the local road authorities. The VR-0001 is primarily designed to improve the reliability and accuracy of the battery charging by replacing the old Lucas Plate rectifier and Zener diode. Click to read more
Q: Alan in California asks if the voltage regulator is required when fitting our Classic Twin ignition system on a 650 Triumph.
A: The regulator is a recommended upgrade to the charging system but is not required to get the new ignition system operational.
Q: From Mike in the UK who has an off road bike that he wants to run without a battery.
A: We recommend our three phase high output alternator kit for this application since the regulator (VR-0003) has the capacitor needed for batteryless operation built it. The three phase alternator has plenty of low RPM output which makes for reliable starting and idling. Our three phase regulator is also available as a separate part. Click here to order
Q: After I ride the bike the battery seems to be low does this mean I have something wrong in the charging system?
A: This question comes up often and I always recommend checking the battery first before looking for other things. If the battery is nearly new check it anyway – it’s still the most likely cause of the trouble. If the battery checks out OK then you should see your local bike electrician to have the charging system checked.
Would it be considered yet a further upgrade to install a 3-phase VR-0003 charging system on a 1973 Norton Commando that has a healthy battery in the system? Or does use of the VR-0003 mandate battery-less running? Rich Casey, New Jersey, USA
ReplyDeleteHi Richard, The 1973 Commando came with a single phase alternator so you would find a big improvement changing to three phase. No problem using the VR-0003 regulator with a battery in the system - It will do away with the old Lucas rectifier and zener diode and control the battery charging nicely.
ReplyDelete-Steve