Is there any reason why I should not connect an Optimate charger through the accessory socket by the coils (K100RS 16v)? If this is considered to be OK, where can I obtain the necessary plug? Does the plug/socket have a DIN or similar specification that an electrical components store will recognise? Thanks for any advice.

No problem to connect a charger, the plug is after DIN standard.
Used on automotive, marine, farmer, camping euqipment.

I`ll guess you is able to get it at almost every automotive parts shop.

Opimate would be good and plug is common and cheap , someone will give you info for your country . Consider tho the quite cheap solar trickle types ie $60 with no further costs . Even grey winter days there is some charge and little is needed if the battery gets a bit each day . Plus doing the "right " thing, a tiny bit more off the fossil fuel equation and smug feeling with no bills .

You're more likely to be looking for one of these Hella items

<TABLE border=0 width="100%"> <TR> <td><TABLE id=Narrative border=2 cellSpacing=4 cellPadding=4 width="100%"> <TR> <td bgColor=#ffffcc width="100%"> Hella Cigarette Lighter Adapters include the BMW Power Plug used on the BMW Motorcycle Accessory Jack. They can be used in both types of Socket. Both types of plugs work in both types of sockets. For dedicated BMW Motorcycle purposes, Hella offers the direct replacement BMW Power Plug and Socket, see HL87136 and HL94603 below to the right. </TD></TR></TABLE> <TABLE border=2 cellSpacing=2 cellPadding=2 width="100%"> <TR> <td width="50%"> </TD> <td width="50%"> </TD></TR> <TR bgColor=#cccccc> <td> HL87135 Cigarette Lighter Adapter with BMW Power Plug </TD> <td> HL87136 BMW Power Plug </TD></TR> <TR> <td> </TD> <td> </TD></TR> <TR bgColor=#cccccc> <td> HL58903 Cigarette Lighter Adapter with BMW / ISO 4165 Plug, LED Status Indicator, Fused </TD> <td> HL94603 BMW Socket </TD></TR></TABLE></TD></TR></TABLE>

But be careful in wireing them up to a charger as they need to match the unit on your bike

Is this the link your looking for???




http://www.buybits.com/product/8669.aspx?source=Google_Products

That's just the badger, TC, thanks, and to everyone else.

Is it OK to use the accessory socket below the seat for connecting a Ctek/Optimate et al? Browsing one of the manuals (Clymer?Haynes? - can't recall which ATM), I spotted a warning against using this socket for battery charging, for fear of damaging electronic components.

If not, how do others connect their battery tender?

Have used the accessory socket for connecting battery chargers the last 26 years,
no problem so far.

But have a good look at all sides of the charger, if you can read "made in China" anywhere.........disconnect battery, and charge separately.

Since asking this question I bought a Hella plug at Halfords and have been using the charger via the socket for about two months without a problem.

MartDude, I guess that may be a problem only if you were to switch on the ignition with the charger still connected. So don't.