Topdon USA refers to itself as a global automotive brand offering a broad range of products, including diagnostic tools, programmers, thermal cameras for auto shops, EV chargers, battery testers, and the subject of this review—jump starters. The Topdon JumpSurge1200 is the company’s lowest-priced jump starter in a model range differing solely in power, although the V2200Plus model is unique in the range as it pairs with Topdon’s Bluetooth app for battery testing. The JumpSurge1200 is 12 volts and DC-only, powered by a 10-amp, 1200-amp maximum current, lithium-ion battery.
Priced at $100, the Topdon Jumpsurge1200 has a claimed ability to jump gasoline engines up to 6.5 liters and diesels up to 4.0 liters, and do it up to 25 jumps on a full charge. I don’t need anything bigger than this for any motorcycle, or even any car, in my garage. The manual states that this unit is for 12-volt lead acid batteries only and does not mention lithium batteries or whether it is okay to use on them.
The jump starter clamp unit has a green light for correct polarity and red for reverse polarity, with reverse polarity protection. The Topdon Jumpsurge1200 also has a boost button, which has an interesting function—if the unit does not light red or green and is correctly connected, it may sense a completely dead battery. Presumably, pressing the boost button will add even more power to the effort and, it is claimed, can start dead or damaged batteries. When turning on the unit, there are four LEDs advising you of the internal battery’s charge level.
Topdon recommends checking the battery level every two months and charging it regularly. As with most rechargeable batteries that are not often used, I habitually charge them every few months, whether they have been used or not. This will help retain longer battery life and offset shelf drain.
I can also use it as a power bank for my gadgets, as it has a pair of five-volt Type-A USB outputs (3 and 2.1 amps), as well as a DC coaxial output jack (16.8 volts, 10 amps). The Topdon JumpSurge 1200 also has a 300-lumen flashlight that will light steadily, strobe, or signal SOS. The retail box contains a nice carrying bag, battery clamps, a USB type-C charging cable, and a user manual.
Along with a tire flat repair kit and small compressor or CO2 inflators, I consider having the Jumpsurge1200 battery jumper a mandatory item to include in a rider’s kit for almost any trip. You never need it until you need it. Like another insurance policy. My latest Death Valley ride proved this when, after a cold night outside, two of a dozen bikes would not start. Likely, they had older batteries. Fortunately, the Topdon JumpSurge1200 power bank battery jumper saved the day.
