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zixxerpilot
07-29-2006, 04:15 PM
Anyone power their laptop from their bike? I have a power outlet installed to charge while riding, but I have a 3 week layoff starting August 14th, and would like to do some extended trips. I do need to have access to my laptop though. Battery only lasts about 2 hours on a full charge.

So, do you think it's safe to power it from the bike while the bike is parked? I use a very small 120v inverter(Pocket Inverter, so it's called).
mongo
07-29-2006, 05:18 PM
What kind of bike do you ride? Most modern sport touring bikes have a minimum of 700 watt alternator. Look at the current draw of your inverter multiply that by 12 (voltage), that will give your wattage. In other words currentXvolatge = power (I X E=W). Remember your top wattage of the alternator is not at idle also. As far as harming your PC as long as you are getting adequate power to the inverter it should be alright.
zixxerpilot
07-29-2006, 09:13 PM
I have a '95 ZX-6R. It works fine while riding, I do that all the time. My question is while parked at a campground with no electric sites available. How would the battery hold up and for how long? I've done it for short spurts at some park stops, but never while camping.
mongo
07-29-2006, 09:47 PM
Sorry I cannot help you with that one.
Trekker
07-31-2006, 08:30 AM
Doubt very much the bike's battery would be of much use to you. It would drain down too much, then you'll have a hard time starting the engine.

Short of some kind of solar panel, your probably going to need to find an outlet.

Maybe you could try an experiment at home? Hook up your inverter and see how long till it drains the bike battery. We would love to know your results. Good luck!
zixxerpilot
07-31-2006, 09:52 PM
Doubt very much the bike's battery would be of much use to you. It would drain down too much, then you'll have a hard time starting the engine.

Short of some kind of solar panel, your probably going to need to find an outlet.

Maybe you could try an experiment at home? Hook up your inverter and see how long till it drains the bike battery. We would love to know your results. Good luck!

I think I'll try that this weekend. I don't know why I did't think of that!!