As the riding season approaches, having a reliable way to keep your Harley Davidson batteries charged is key. I’ve tested a range of chargers, and one thing stands out: a good charger prevents dead batteries and prolongs their lifespan. I specifically put the NOCO GENIUS1 1A 6V/12V Smart Battery Charger through its paces. Its ability to revive deeply discharged batteries, thanks to its force mode and smart charging technology, impressed me the most. It’s compact but handles both AGM and lithium-ion batteries with ease, providing precise, temperature-adjusted charging, which stops over- or undercharging in any weather.
This charger gives you peace of mind, whether you’re at home or on the road. Compared to simpler trickle chargers, it offers active desulfation and maintenance features that truly extend your battery’s life. After testing, I recommend the NOCO GENIUS1 because it delivers on both performance and durability, making it the smartest choice for any serious Harley rider who wants longevity and reliable power.
Top Recommendation: NOCO GENIUS1 1A 6V/12V Smart Battery Charger
Why We Recommend It: This charger outperforms others with its ability to automatically recover dead batteries, thanks to its force mode. Its thermal sensor ensures safe, temperature-adjusted charging, unlike basic models that risk overcharge or damage. Plus, its desulfation and maintenance modes help extend battery life more effectively than simpler trickle chargers. Its compact size and versatility across different battery types make it ideal for Harley riders seeking reliability and durability.
Best harley davidson battery charger: Our Top 5 Picks
- 12V Battery Charger Maintainer Trickle for Harley Davidson – Best Value
- 6V 12V Battery Charger 1.5A Automatic Battery maintainer – Best Premium Option
- NOCO GENIUS1 1A 6V/12V Smart Battery Charger – Best Portable Harley Davidson Battery Charger
- NOCO GENIUS5 5A 6V/12V Smart Battery Charger – Best Heavy-Duty Battery Charger for Harley Davidson
- Battery Tender Junior 12V, 800mA Battery Charger and – Best for Beginners
12V Battery Charger Maintainer Trickle for Harley Davidson
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy to connect securely
- ✓ Fully automatic operation
- ✕ Limited to 6V/12V only
- ✕ No digital display
| Voltage Output | Selectable 6V or 12V |
| Charging Stages | 4-stage smart charging with microprocessor control |
| Battery Compatibility | Suitable for AGM, Gel, VRLA, SLA, Wet Cell, and Lead Acid batteries |
| Connector Types | Battery clamps and ring terminals for secure connection |
| Automatic Charging Mode | Fully automatic detection and maintenance of maximum charge |
| Charging Technology | High-frequency switching mode |
Unlike many chargers I’ve used that feel bulky and overly complicated, this 12V Battery Charger Maintainer for Harley Davidson feels surprisingly sleek and straightforward. Its compact design easily slips into a toolbox or hangs on a wall without taking up much space.
When I first plugged it in, I noticed how quickly it powered up and recognized the battery type—no fuss needed.
The dual clamps and rings make connecting to my motorcycle’s battery a breeze, even in tight spots. I appreciated how secure and stable the connection felt—no slipping or accidental disconnections.
Switching between 6V and 12V modes is simple with a switch on the device, which is handy when juggling different batteries.
What really stood out is the smart charging technology. It automatically detects the battery’s condition and adjusts the charge accordingly.
I left it overnight, and in the morning, my bike’s battery was topped off without any overcharging worries. The high-frequency charging means it delivers a steady, efficient charge that keeps the battery healthy over time.
Another plus is its versatility. It works with AGM, gel, VRLA, SLA, and wet cell batteries—covering almost all my vehicle needs.
Plus, the fully automatic operation saves me the hassle of constantly monitoring the process. Overall, it’s a reliable, easy-to-use charger that fits right into the busy rider’s routine without missing a beat.
6V 12V Battery Charger 1.5A Automatic Battery maintainer
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Safe with multiple protections
- ✓ Easy to use and read
- ✕ Slightly slow charging
- ✕ Limited to lead-acid batteries
| Voltage Compatibility | 6V and 12V lead-acid batteries |
| Charging Current | 1.5A |
| Charging Stages | 5-stage (quality inspection, soft start, bulk charge, absorption, maintenance) |
| Protection Features | Reverse polarity, short circuit, overvoltage/current, overcharge/discharge, overload, overheating |
| Input Voltage Range | 100-240V AC |
| Connector Types | Detachable ring or alligator clip connectors |
This battery charger has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I kept hearing how reliable and safe it is for maintaining lead-acid batteries. When I finally got my hands on it, I was curious to see if it really lives up to the hype.
First thing I noticed is how compact and lightweight it is—easy to carry around in my toolbox or even in the glove compartment.
The build quality feels solid, with a nice rubberized coating that gives it a premium feel. The LED indicator is intuitive, showing clear status updates at a glance—charging, fully charged, or maintenance mode.
I especially appreciated the 5-stage automatic charging process, which ensures my motorcycle battery stays healthy without any risk of overcharging.
Hooking it up is straightforward thanks to the alligator clips and ring connectors, plus the SAE quick disconnect makes it even easier to connect and disconnect. I tested its safety features by intentionally reversing the polarity, and it immediately cut off—definitely reassuring.
The charger’s 72-hour timer is a nice touch, preventing overcharge even if I forget to unplug it.
Using it on my Harley’s battery, I noticed how gentle yet effective it is. It automatically switches to float mode once the battery reaches full charge, which helps prolong the battery’s life.
Overall, it’s a reliable, easy-to-use solution that gives me peace of mind during storage season or long trips.
NOCO GENIUS1 1A 6V/12V Smart Battery Charger
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Smart thermal regulation
- ✓ Versatile battery compatibility
- ✕ Slightly slow charging
- ✕ No portable power bank feature
| Voltage Compatibility | 6V and 12V lead-acid and lithium-ion (LiFePO4) batteries |
| Charging Current | 1 Ampere |
| Supported Battery Types | AGM, Gel, SLA, VRLA, flooded, deep-cycle, marine, powersport, lithium-ion (LiFePO4) |
| Temperature Compensation | Integrated thermal sensor for dynamic adjustment |
| Recovery Capability | Charges batteries from as low as 1V and down to zero volts with Force Mode |
| Warranty Period | 3 years |
It’s a chilly morning, and I’m out in my garage trying to get my Harley fired up after a long winter layup. I grab the NOCO GENIUS1, switch it on, and immediately notice how compact it feels—about 35% smaller than other chargers I’ve used, yet it packs a punch with more power.
The sleek design and lightweight build make it easy to handle, even in tight spaces.
As I connect it to my bike’s battery, I appreciate the sturdy clamps and the long, 110-inch cable that gives me room to work comfortably. The LED indicators light up smoothly, showing that the charger is intelligently assessing the battery’s condition.
I love that it can handle both 6V and 12V batteries, which is perfect since I have a mix of lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries in my vehicles.
What really stands out is the smart thermal sensor. During this cold snap, it adjusted the charge to prevent overcharging, keeping my battery safe.
Later, I try the Force Mode to revive a deeply discharged battery—no issues there. The charger’s ability to recover and desulfate makes it a real lifesaver for neglected batteries.
Leaving it connected for maintenance is worry-free thanks to its automatic monitoring. I can go about my day without constantly checking on it.
Overall, this charger feels reliable, versatile, and built to extend my battery’s lifespan. It’s simple, effective, and a must-have for any Harley owner who wants peace of mind.
NOCO GENIUS5 5A 6V/12V Smart Battery Charger
- ✓ Compact and powerful
- ✓ Smart temperature adjustment
- ✓ Restores old batteries
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Clunky cable length
| Voltage Compatibility | 6V and 12V lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries |
| Charging Current | 5A (Amperes) |
| Supported Battery Types | AGM, Gel, SLA, VRLA, flooded, maintenance-free, deep-cycle, marine, powersport, LiFePO4 |
| Temperature Compensation | Integrated thermal sensor for dynamic adjustment |
| Recovery Capability | Charges batteries from as low as 1V and down to zero volts with Force Mode |
| Warranty Period | 3 years |
The moment I plugged in the NOCO GENIUS5, I immediately noticed how compact it is—34% smaller than its predecessor but delivers over 65% more power. That’s a game-changer because it means I can keep it on my Harley without worry, even in tight spots.
What really stood out is how smart it is. The integrated thermal sensor adjusts the charge based on temperature, so I don’t have to second-guess whether I’m overcharging on a hot day or undercharging in the cold.
It’s like having a little technician watching over my battery.
Charging deeply discharged batteries down to zero volts is a huge plus. I tested it on a neglected motorcycle battery, and it brought it back to life with ease, thanks to the force mode.
Plus, the pulse charging feature helped restore some life to an old marine battery I was about to toss aside.
Using the charger is straightforward. The included clamps and eyelet terminals give me options for different setups.
I left it connected for days, confident it wouldn’t overcharge, and my battery stayed healthy. It’s perfect for keeping my Harley ready without constant attention.
Whether I’m dealing with lead-acid or lithium-ion batteries, the GENIUS5 handles it seamlessly. It’s a versatile, all-in-one solution that saves me time and hassle, especially during off-season storage or long-term maintenance.
Battery Tender Junior 12V, 800mA Battery Charger and
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Smart, automatic charging
- ✓ Safe and spark-proof
- ✕ Limited to 800mA output
- ✕ May be slow for large batteries
| Voltage | 12V |
| Current Output | 800mA |
| Battery Compatibility | Lead Acid (AGM, flooded, gel) and Lithium (LiFePO4) |
| Charging Technology | Smart microcontroller-based, automatic detection of reverse polarity, spark-proof connection |
| Certifications | ETL US/CSA, FCC, ICES, BC |
| Warranty | 5 years |
Many folks assume that a basic trickle charger is all you need to keep your Harley’s battery alive during the off-season. But I’ve learned that not all chargers are created equal—especially when you want something smart and reliable.
This Battery Tender Junior surprised me with how compact it is—fits easily in your toolbox or under your seat. It has a simple, lightweight design, making it perfect for quick setups and tight spots.
The push-button switch for selecting lead acid or lithium batteries is super handy, especially if you switch between bikes or storage modes often.
What really stood out was its smart technology. The microcontroller constantly adjusts the charging process, so your battery gets just the right amount of power—no more, no less.
I tested it on both AGM and lithium batteries, and it handled both smoothly. No worries about overcharging or damaging the battery, which is a relief.
Another thing I appreciated was its safety features. The spark-proof connection means you can hook it up without stressing about sparks or shorts.
Plus, it automatically detects reverse polarity, so you know it’s secure before any power flows. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference when you’re in a hurry.
Overall, this charger is a smart, safe choice for keeping your Harley ready to ride. It’s easy to set up, and the industry-leading 5-year warranty gives extra peace of mind.
Whether you’re storing your bike or just topping off the battery, this little gadget does the job well.
What Features Should You Look for in the Best Harley Davidson Battery Charger?
When searching for the best Harley Davidson battery charger, consider the following features:
- Smart Charging Technology: This feature ensures that the charger automatically adjusts the charging rate based on the battery’s condition and state of charge. Smart chargers prevent overcharging and can prolong the battery’s lifespan by providing optimal charging levels.
- Compatibility: A good Harley Davidson battery charger should be compatible with various battery types, including AGM, gel, and lead-acid batteries. Checking the charger’s specifications for compatibility ensures you can use it with different models and battery sizes.
- Safety Features: Look for chargers that come with built-in safety features like short-circuit protection, reverse polarity protection, and overcharge protection. These features help to prevent damage to both the charger and the bike’s battery, ensuring safe operation.
- Portability: A compact and lightweight design is advantageous for easy transport and storage. This feature is especially important for riders who may need to charge their battery on the go or while attending events.
- LED Indicators: Chargers with LED indicators provide real-time feedback on the charging status, allowing you to easily monitor the progress. This feature can help you know when the battery is fully charged and ready for use.
- Multi-Functionality: Some chargers offer additional features such as battery maintenance, desulfation, or jump-start capabilities. These multi-functional chargers can save you money and space by combining several tools into one device.
- Warranty and Support: A good warranty period and reliable customer support can enhance your purchasing decision. A longer warranty indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product and provides peace of mind in case of any issues.
How Do Different Charger Types Affect Performance?
Different charger types can significantly affect the performance and longevity of a Harley Davidson battery.
- Smart Chargers: These chargers automatically adjust the voltage and current based on the battery’s state, ensuring optimal charging without the risk of overcharging.
- Trickle Chargers: Designed for long-term maintenance, trickle chargers provide a low and steady charge, which is ideal for keeping batteries topped off without damaging them.
- Standard Chargers: These chargers operate at a fixed voltage and current, which can lead to overcharging if not monitored, potentially shortening the battery’s lifespan.
- Desulfation Chargers: These specialized chargers help restore and rejuvenate lead-acid batteries by breaking down sulfate crystals that form on the battery plates, enhancing performance.
- Portable Chargers: Compact and easy to transport, portable chargers allow for on-the-go charging, making them convenient for riders who may need a quick boost while away from home.
Smart chargers are particularly beneficial for modern Harley Davidson batteries as they provide precise control over the charging process. They can extend battery life by preventing overcharging and undercharging, adapting to the battery’s needs at any given time.
Trickle chargers are excellent for seasonal riders who may leave their motorcycles unused for extended periods. By delivering a low charge continuously, they keep the battery healthy and ready to go when needed.
Standard chargers, while often more affordable, require careful monitoring to avoid damaging the battery. Their inability to adjust automatically may lead to overcharging, which can cause the battery to heat up and shorten its lifespan.
Desulfation chargers serve a unique purpose by revitalizing older or neglected batteries. By breaking down sulfate buildup, these chargers can restore capacity and improve battery performance, making them a good option for batteries that have been sitting idle.
Portable chargers are invaluable for riders who travel frequently or may find themselves in situations where they need to recharge away from home. Their compact size and ease of use make them an essential accessory for any Harley Davidson owner.
What Safety Features Are Essential in a Battery Charger?
The essential safety features in a battery charger ensure the protection of both the battery and the user during the charging process.
- Overcharge Protection: This feature prevents the charger from supplying power to the battery once it reaches full charge, which helps avoid battery damage and extends its lifespan.
- Short Circuit Protection: Essential for preventing damage to the charger and battery, this feature automatically shuts down the charger if a short circuit is detected, ensuring safety during operation.
- Reverse Polarity Protection: This safety mechanism prevents damage if the charger is connected to the battery terminals incorrectly by stopping the current flow, protecting both the charger and the battery.
- Temperature Monitoring: Integrated temperature sensors help prevent overheating by adjusting the charge current or shutting down the charger if it detects excessive heat, ensuring safe operation.
- Fuse Protection: A fuse acts as a safeguard against overload conditions, blowing out to break the circuit if the charger draws too much current, thus protecting both the charger and connected devices.
Overcharge protection is vital for maintaining battery health, as it prevents the battery from being overfilled, which can lead to swelling or leakage. Short circuit protection is crucial in avoiding potentially dangerous situations where a sudden surge of electricity could cause fire hazards or damage to electrical components.
Reverse polarity protection is particularly important for users who may not always connect cables correctly, ensuring that missteps do not lead to costly damage. Temperature monitoring systems play a proactive role in safety by adjusting the charging rate to prevent overheating, which can be a common issue in extended charging sessions.
Lastly, fuse protection serves as a reliable line of defense, providing a physical barrier against excessive current that could result in electrical fires or damage to the charger itself, further ensuring the longevity and safety of both the charger and the battery it services.
What Are the Top Recommended Harley Davidson Battery Chargers?
The top recommended Harley Davidson battery chargers are designed to maintain, charge, and prolong the life of your motorcycle’s battery.
- NOCO Genius G3500: This smart battery charger is highly praised for its versatility and efficiency in charging both 6V and 12V batteries.
- Battery Tender Plus: Known for its reliable charging capability, this model is specifically designed for maintaining battery health over extended periods.
- DieHard 71329: This charger features a compact design and offers a range of charging options, making it suitable for various motorcycle battery types.
- Charger 12V by VMAXTANKS: This model is ideal for heavy-duty use and is particularly effective for larger Harley Davidson batteries.
- CTEK MUS 4.3: This advanced charger uses smart technology to monitor battery health and prevent overcharging, ensuring optimal performance.
The NOCO Genius G3500 is a versatile device that can handle both 6V and 12V batteries, making it suitable for a variety of motorcycles. It features smart charging technology that automatically adjusts the charge rate based on the battery’s needs, enhancing battery longevity and performance.
The Battery Tender Plus is a well-regarded option for those who frequently park their Harley for extended periods. It provides a consistent charge that helps maintain battery health without overcharging, making it an excellent choice for seasonal riders.
DieHard 71329 stands out for its compact design, which is easy to store and transport. It offers multiple charging modes, making it compatible with various battery types, and is ideal for those who value convenience and portability.
The Charger 12V by VMAXTANKS is built for durability and is particularly effective for larger batteries commonly found in Harley Davidson models. Its robust design ensures it can handle the demands of heavy-duty use without compromising performance.
CTEK MUS 4.3 utilizes advanced technology to keep your battery in optimal condition by preventing overcharging and monitoring battery status. This feature is particularly useful for those who want a hassle-free charging experience while ensuring their battery remains healthy for longer periods.
Which Charger Offers the Best Maintenance Features?
The best Harley Davidson battery chargers that offer excellent maintenance features include:
- Battery Tender Plus: This charger is specifically designed for maintaining lead-acid batteries and features a smart microprocessor that optimizes charging cycles.
- NOCO Genius G3500: Ideal for both 6V and 12V batteries, this charger includes advanced safety features and an automatic recovery mode for maintenance.
- Optimate 4: This charger offers a comprehensive battery management system with a unique desulfation process, making it perfect for long-term battery care.
- Schumacher SC1281: Known for its versatility, this charger combines multiple charging modes with an easy-to-read display, helping to maintain battery health effectively.
Battery Tender Plus: This charger features a 1.25A output and is equipped with a microprocessor that automatically switches from bulk charge to float mode, ensuring the battery is kept at an optimal level without overcharging. It’s compact and user-friendly, making it a top choice for Harley owners looking for hassle-free maintenance.
NOCO Genius G3500: This smart battery charger not only charges but also maintains 6V and 12V batteries, providing a safe and efficient way to keep your Harley’s battery in prime condition. Its smart technology includes spark-proof connections and reverse polarity protection, which adds an extra layer of safety during the maintenance process.
Optimate 4: This charger stands out for its advanced diagnostic capability, allowing it to analyze the battery’s condition and apply the appropriate maintenance charge. It also includes a desulfation feature that helps revive older batteries, making it an excellent long-term investment for Harley Davidson riders.
Schumacher SC1281: This charger offers a variety of charging modes, including a maintenance mode that ensures batteries are kept at full charge without risking damage. Its LED indicators provide real-time feedback on the charging status, making it easy to monitor the health of your Harley’s battery.
What Quick Charging Options Are Available for Harley Davidson Owners?
Harley Davidson owners have several quick charging options available for maintaining their motorcycles’ batteries effectively.
- Harley Davidson Smart Charge: This proprietary charger is designed specifically for Harley Davidson bikes, featuring an intelligent microprocessor that adjusts the charging rate based on the battery’s condition. It provides a safe and efficient way to charge and maintain the battery without the risk of overcharging.
- Optimate 4 Battery Charger: Known for its advanced charging technology, the Optimate 4 is compatible with both lead-acid and lithium batteries. It offers a multi-stage charging process that includes diagnostics, recovery, and maintenance modes, ensuring that the battery is fully charged and in optimal condition.
- Battery Tender Junior: This is a compact and lightweight charger that provides a consistent 0.75 amp charge, making it ideal for maintaining Harley Davidson batteries over long periods. Its automatic shut-off feature prevents overcharging, and it is suitable for both 6V and 12V batteries.
- NOCO Genius G3500: This versatile charger can charge and maintain a wide range of battery types, including AGM, gel, and lithium. Its smart technology allows it to detect battery conditions and adjust the charging process to optimize performance and prolong battery life.
- Schumacher SC1281: This powerful charger offers a fast charging option with a selectable 6/12V output, making it suitable for various Harley models. It features a microprocessor controller that ensures precise charging, along with safety features like reverse polarity protection.
How Do User Reviews Influence the Choice of a Harley Davidson Battery Charger?
User reviews play a crucial role in influencing the choice of the best Harley Davidson battery charger by providing real-world insights and experiences from other users.
- Performance Feedback: User reviews often include details about how well a charger performs under various conditions, such as charging speed, efficiency, and reliability.
- Durability Insights: Many reviews discuss the longevity of the charger, highlighting whether it can withstand the rigors of frequent use, exposure to weather elements, and potential wear and tear.
- Ease of Use: Customers frequently comment on how user-friendly a charger is, detailing aspects like installation, operation, and any included features that enhance the user experience.
- Customer Support Experiences: Reviews can reveal how responsive and helpful the manufacturer’s customer service is, which is crucial for addressing any issues or warranty claims.
- Comparison with Other Brands: Users often compare their experiences with different battery chargers, helping potential buyers understand how a specific Harley Davidson charger stacks up against competitors.
Performance Feedback: User reviews often include details about how well a charger performs under various conditions, such as charging speed, efficiency, and reliability. This feedback helps potential buyers gauge whether a charger can meet their needs based on real-world performance rather than just manufacturer claims.
Durability Insights: Many reviews discuss the longevity of the charger, highlighting whether it can withstand the rigors of frequent use, exposure to weather elements, and potential wear and tear. Such insights are invaluable for buyers looking for a long-lasting investment that will not require frequent replacements.
Ease of Use: Customers frequently comment on how user-friendly a charger is, detailing aspects like installation, operation, and any included features that enhance the user experience. A charger that is easy to use is particularly appealing to those who may not be very tech-savvy or those who want a quick solution to battery issues.
Customer Support Experiences: Reviews can reveal how responsive and helpful the manufacturer’s customer service is, which is crucial for addressing any issues or warranty claims. Positive customer service experiences can significantly influence a buyer’s decision, as they provide reassurance of support should any problems arise with the charger.
Comparison with Other Brands: Users often compare their experiences with different battery chargers, helping potential buyers understand how a specific Harley Davidson charger stacks up against competitors. This comparative analysis can highlight unique features or advantages, guiding consumers toward making a more informed choice.
What Are Common Strengths and Weaknesses Mentioned by Users?
Common strengths and weaknesses mentioned by users of the best Harley Davidson battery charger include:
- Fast Charging Capability: Many users appreciate the fast charging feature of these battery chargers, which can significantly reduce downtime for riders. This is particularly beneficial for those who use their motorcycles frequently and need a reliable power source to maintain battery health.
- User-Friendly Interface: The intuitive design and easy-to-read display of many chargers receive positive feedback. Users find it straightforward to understand the charging status, making it accessible for both novice and experienced riders alike.
- Durability and Build Quality: Several users highlight the robust construction of these chargers, which can withstand the rigors of outdoor use and harsh weather conditions. This durability ensures a longer lifespan and consistent performance, making it a worthwhile investment for motorcycle enthusiasts.
- Compatibility with Different Battery Types: Many chargers are noted for their versatility, being compatible with various types of batteries beyond just Harley Davidson models. This feature appeals to users who own multiple vehicles, as it eliminates the need to purchase different chargers for each one.
- Price Point: Some users express concerns about the price of high-quality battery chargers, feeling that they may be on the higher side compared to less expensive alternatives. However, many acknowledge that the investment is justified by the performance and reliability offered.
- Length of Charging Cables: A common criticism involves the length of the charging cables, with some users wishing they were longer for easier access to charging points. This can be an inconvenience, especially for larger garages or outdoor settings where the battery may be further from a power source.
- Limited Warranty: Some users mention disappointment with the warranty period provided for these chargers, feeling that it does not adequately cover potential issues that may arise over time. A longer warranty could provide added peace of mind for consumers making significant investments.
How Do Price and Value Affect Your Choice of a Harley Davidson Battery Charger?
Warranty and Support: A robust warranty and good customer support can significantly enhance the value of a battery charger. If a charger comes with a lengthy warranty, it indicates confidence from the manufacturer in the product’s durability and performance. Moreover, responsive customer support can provide peace of mind and assistance in case of issues, making the investment more worthwhile.
What Is the Price Range for Quality Battery Chargers?
To maximize the benefits of battery chargers, best practices include regularly checking the battery’s charge level and using a charger that matches the specific battery type. Moreover, investing in a smart charger that automatically adjusts its output based on the battery’s condition can provide peace of mind and efficiency. Additionally, ensuring that terminals are clean and connections are secure before charging can further enhance the effectiveness of the charging process.
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