Just bought a new FLHTK. I've been told that I should use a battery tender whenever the bike is parked, to keep the battery strong. I've never used a tender except during the winter months. Any thoughts on the subject would be helpful.

 

If bike is parked for a week or more, then I'll use a tender and of course all winter. Other than that I don't worry about it. My battery in my bike is now 5 years old and running strong doing it this way.

 

I only use mine when it sits for long periods of time.

 

I never use one, but my bike hardly sits more than a few days at any time. I could see using one on and off if I stored the bike, other than that, no.

 

Damn I wish I lived in S Florida lol usually store mine from Nov-March give or take and the real riding doesn't usually happen until May-Sep

 

+1 on that. Newer bikes have processor controlled systems that will always pull a small amount of juice from the battery, even when in storage... a little more if you have a security system. Its a good idea to use a good maintenance charger. My dealer automatically installs a Battery Tender Jr. on all new bikes it sells. The tiny pigtail stays with the bike permanently and takes only seconds to attach to the charger once I'm home.

I use the Ctek 3300 on my cars and love it, but either one will help protect your +$100.00 battery for a long time.

 

I throw mine on every now and then and all winter.

 

I use the tenger once per month

 

As soon as I pull into the garage I plug it in. I leave it plugged in anytime I'm not riding.

 

I do the same, everytime takes 10 sec........why not do it if you have it set up?