Good link. Thanks. They look a really class product. I have paid a penalty for budget buying after getting 2 from: https://www.dustoffcovers.co.uk/dust.htm for about 40 quid each. I'm not critical of the product, merely disappointed that I didn't go the extra yard. Ordinary 'woven polyester' is almost like soft cardboard - seems to be scratchy so I use a sheet beneath. The ones from Specialised are fleecy-lined (much like my original MV one) and because they're softer, even look better when fitted. Hmmm . . .
best thing is to get a 7 day timer and have the charger come on once a week for about 30mins depending on alarms etc. this will stop overcharging. lithums do not like overcharging, it reduces life, lithiums as pointed out no not self discharge like leads.
But isn't that the purpose of Optimisers to maintain the battery without overcharging - or are you speaking solely about a 'non-smart' charger?
Everything is right what you wrote if you buy a crap cheap charger, but nothing applies if you buy a good charger such like the CTEK etc. The LITHIUM XS is an advanced microprocessor controlled charger and maintainer specially designed for Lithium-Ion Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries. The LITHIUM XS is specially designed for Lithium-Ion Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries. With up to 5A of charge current available, it can charge LiFePO4 batteries from 5Ah to 60Ah and maintain up to 120Ah. It’s easy to use – just connect it and charging starts immediately. There’s no need to disconnect your battery and any low voltage protection electronics will be reset automatically. The LITHIUM XS is a ‘connect and forget’ charger with 8 charging steps, a testing sequence that tells you if the battery can take and retain the charge, a unique maximisation step to restore full capacity and patented maintenance charging for maximum performance, even after months of inactivity. Easy to use – just connect and forget Unique 8 step charging for maximum performance and extended life Safe spark free operation Exceptionally clean voltage and current delivery with no surges or spikes 5-year warranty
I bought a CTEK 2 years ago and like it (although the test function on it always show good results!) It has a 10 day Off charging cycle (unless the volts drops significantly) so like jez's timer. Mine is for lead battery. I believe if you use a suitable (i.e so desulfation mode) trickle charger on lithium battery, then you need to monitor the voltage and once charged, disconnect it from the battery
You are right, it's expensive, but I just wanted to have the best for my bike: https://www.tayna.co.uk/battery-chargers/ctek/lithium-xs/