How do I install a USB connector on my motorcycle?

More and more bikers are decidinginstall the USB connector on your motorcycle... It must be admitted that this accessory is especially practical. Allowing you to connect your two-wheeler to a state-of-the-art device in the event of a breakdown becomes absolutely essential. Indeed, it automatically charges any device connected to it: smartphone, mp3 player, GPS navigator, GoPro batteries, etc.

Unfortunately, despite the obvious usefulness of this accessory, it is rare that a USB connector is already built into a motorcycle. Especially if it's new. That is why, in order to take advantage of the benefits it offers, you must install it yourself.

Do you want to be able to charge your devices from a bike? Find out how to install a USB connector on your motorcycle.

Where to install the USB connector on the motorcycle?

The location of the USB connector depends on what you plan to do with it.

If you want to be able to monitor a charged devicelike a GPS navigator, the steering wheel is the perfect place. But be careful, it doesn't only have benefits. You already need to find a good place to mount the outlet. After that, you should also find a stable place for your device so that you have an optimal view. And it doesn't affect your behavior. Also note that outside your device will be exposed to external influences (weather, vibration, etc.)

If you do not need to constantly see the charged device, You can place the USB plug under the saddle. This is very practical because it will be safer. You will protect it from vibration, the risk of falling and also from bad weather. And since it's next to the battery, connecting is even easier.

Note, however, that most bikers prefer to mount the USB connector on the handlebars.

Installing a USB connector on a motorcycle: how is it connected?

In fact, it is very easy to install a USB connector on a motorcycle. The connection is for connecting two wires (red and black) to the positive and negative terminals of the battery. If you don't have the time or don't think you can succeed, you can entrust the installation to a mechanic for about twenty euros.

You can also do it yourself. But under two conditions: don't be wrong with the terminals (especially with the + power supply) and never connect directly to the battery.

Install the USB connector on your motorcycle: find the power supply (+)

The first thing to do if you want to install a USB connector on your motorcycle is find the power supply (+). Why ? You can connect the black wire directly to the negative terminal. Unfortunately, this is not possible for the red wire of the positive terminal. To do this, you must connect to the accessory chain for more safety.

How to find food (+)? You will need a voltmeter. If you don't have one, use a modeling lamp. Any of these will allow you to find a circuit that you can use after the key switch. Please note that the lamp is non-contact, which means that you are directly connected to the battery.

Once you find the power supply (+), continue the connection, observing the following rule: connect the female connector, that is, the one that is protected from the power supply side; and connect the plug terminal, that is, the one that is not protected by the accessory.

Connect the USB plug to the motorcycle: never directly to the battery

As mentioned earlier, installing a USB connector on a motorcycle is relatively simple. However, there are things you should not do. Unfortunately, they are rarely mentioned in the notifications sent to you. In most cases, we understand that it is necessary to connect the red wire to the positive and the black wire to the negative. But we don't tell you to avoid connect the plug directly to the battery for example.

To avoid direct connection? First, to protect the battery. This helps prevent premature wear and damage. And secondly, it also protects your accessory and your motorcycle.

Where to connect the USB connector on the motorcycle? As a last resort, you can connect the negative wire directly to the battery. But for the positive wire, always choose the "+ after contact" connection. It is best to connect to equipment that does not compromise safety, such as a lighting cable. You can do this with a domino, vampire clip, or Wago terminal block.