Pride RALLY 3 Owner's Manual page 25

V . B A T T E R I E S A N D C H A R G I N G
Why do my new batteries seem weak?
Deep-cycle batteries employ a different chemical technology than that used in car batteries, nickel-cadmium
batteries (nicads), and other common battery types. Deep-cycle batteries are specifically designed to provide
power, drain down their charge, and then accept a relatively quick recharge.
We work closely with our battery manufacturer to provide batteries that best suit your scooter’s specific
electrical demands. Fresh batteries arrive daily at Pride and are shipped fully charged to our customers.
During shipping, the batteries may encounter temperature extremes that can influence their initial
performance. Heat diminishes the charge on the battery; cold slows the available power and extends the
time needed to recharge the battery.
It may take a few days for the temperature of your scooter’s batteries to stabilise and adjust to their new
room or ambient temperature.
More importantly, it takes a few charging cycles (partial draining followed by full recharging) to establish
the critical chemical balance that is essential to a deep-cycle battery’s peak performance and long life.
Follow these steps to properly break-in your scooter’s new batteries for maximum efficiency and service life.
1. Fully recharge any new battery prior to its initial use. This charging cycle brings the battery up to about
88% of its peak performance level.
2. Operate your new scooter in familiar and safe areas. Drive slowly at first, and do not travel too far from
your home or familiar surroundings until you have become accustomed to your scooter’s controls and
have properly broken in your scooter’s batteries.
3. Fully recharge the batteries. They should be at over 90% of their peak performance level.
4. Operate your scooter again.
5. Fully recharge the batteries again.
6. After four or five charging cycles, the batteries are able to receive a charge of 100% of their peak
performance level and are able to last for an extended period of time.
How should I store my scooter and its batteries?
If you plan on not using your scooter for an extended period of time, it is best to:
n Fully charge its batteries prior to storage.
n Disconnect both battery harnesses.
n Store your scooter in a warm, dry environment.
n Avoid storing your scooter where it will be exposed to temperature extremes.
WARNING! If your scooter’s batteries do become frozen, do not attempt to charge them. Cold or
frozen batteries should be allowed to warm up for several days prior to recharging.
For prolonged storage, you may wish to place several boards under the frame of your scooter to raise it off
of the ground. This takes the weight off the tyres and reduces the possibility of flat spots developing on the
areas of the tyres contacting the ground.
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