Motorcycle Voltage Regulators

All electrical systems and devices of your motorcycle are engineered to operate using direct current. However, the alternator of your bike generates alternating current which could damage most of your electrical parts and devices if it is left as it is. To ensure their safe operation, your motorcycle is equipped with a voltage regulator, which job is to convert alternating current into direct one. As a rule, it is a small electrical device that is located either directly on the alternator or close to it and integrated into the electrical circuit of your motorcycle.

A voltage regulator is also known as a rectifying regulator. It stands directly for what it does and perfectly describes the main function of the regulator. It changes the alternator's AC output to DC so it can be distributed to all electrical components of your bike and stored in your battery. Remember that your battery needs to be charged from time to time to maintain its performance at a proper level. Otherwise, it may be hard for you to start your bike next time, especially if you live in a cold climate.

A modern motorcycle rectifying regulator is a complex device constructed of a series of semiconductors mounted on a printed circuit board and packed in a compact housing. It controls every aspect of charging and power supply systems, so it must be very powerful to support plenty of electrical devices found in today's motorcycle. While operating, the semiconductors generate a lot of heat that must be dissipated to prevent the damage of the regulator and wiring. For this purpose, rectifying regulators come with a finned aluminum case that acts as a radiator allowing cool air to dissipate heat.

Along with converting AC current created by your alternator into DC one, your voltage regulator also keeps it within the proper range. It is very important since most of your electrical devices and components are engineered to operate within a narrow voltage margin. Depending on your motorcycle, it can be equipped with either 12V or 6V regulator. The majority of today's motorcycles use 12V electrical circuits, however, some older and lower powered bikes may utilize the 6V voltage source. That's why when replacing your voltage regulator, make sure the one you install has the right voltage output.

There are several types of voltage regulators available for modern motorcycles. The most popular one is a single or three-phase voltage regulator. It is optimized for use with motorcycle alternators and allows for producing high current even at relatively low RPMs. Voltage regulators can be divided into 2-pin, 3-pin, and 4-pin ones. The first one is mostly used for small bicycles, while 3-pin ones can be found on some bikes. 4-pin units are the most common type of motorcycle voltage regulators, so most likely your bike is equipped with this kind of rectifying regulator.