For motorcycle enthusiasts who love to tinker and understand their machines, the world of onboard diagnostics (OBD2) offers a wealth of information. Traditionally, accessing this data meant investing in expensive, professional-grade scan tools. However, the advent of Cheap Obd2 Bluetooth adapters has revolutionized DIY diagnostics, making it accessible and affordable for the average rider. I recently decided to test one of these budget-friendly devices on my EFI Bonneville, and the results were surprisingly impressive, demonstrating the capabilities of cheap OBD2 for motorcycle owners.
The adapter I opted for was a “generic” OBD-II Bluetooth model, readily available online for under $20. Compatibility was a key concern, but thankfully, modern motorcycles, including my Bonneville, often utilize the OBD2 standard. The primary requirement for this setup is a compatible Android device – a tablet or smartphone running Android OS 4.2 or later and equipped with Bluetooth 3.0 or better. Given the prevalence of affordable Android devices meeting these specifications, the barrier to entry is remarkably low.
This particular adapter, manufactured by KONNWEI and purchased from Amazon, leverages the ELM327 chipset, a common foundation for many OBD2 devices. Crucially, it supports various OBD protocols, including ISO9141-2, the protocol used by many late-model EFI Triumph Bonnevilles. This European variant of the SAE OBD-II standard ensures full compliance and functionality.
While ISO9141-2 is characterized by a slower data rate (10.4k baud) compared to newer, faster protocols, it’s perfectly adequate for diagnostic purposes. Regardless of the data speed, all OBD2 protocols serve the same fundamental purpose: to communicate with diagnostic scan tools and trouble code readers. Bluetooth OBD2 adapters simply eliminate the need for cumbersome cables, establishing a wireless connection to your chosen device.
Connecting a BT OBD2 adapter is straightforward. It plugs into the motorcycle’s 16-pin Diagnostic Link Connector (DLC), which in turn interfaces with the Engine Control Unit (ECU). On my Bonneville, the DLC is conveniently located under the seat, attached to the wiring loom above the rear fender. The OBD2 protocol facilitates the monitoring of Parameter IDs (PIDs) within the ECU, albeit at a slower refresh rate due to the protocol speed. The Bonneville’s ECU offers a useful array of PIDs for monitoring key engine parameters – including RPM, MPH, Throttle Position Sensor (TPS), Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP), Mass Air Flow (MAF), O2 sensors, ignition timing advance, calculated engine load, and battery voltage. Furthermore, it provides access to all Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) relevant to the 865cc parallel-twin engine.
The real magic unfolds when pairing the cheap OBD2 adapter with compatible Android applications. Several excellent apps are available on the Google Play Store, and many are surprisingly free or very affordable. My personal favorite, and one I highly recommend, is OBD Fusion. Other popular and effective options include DashCommand, Torque Pro, OBD Car Doctor, Piston, and ELM327 Check Version. These apps transform your Android device into a powerful diagnostic tool.
Beyond generic OBD2 apps, TuneECU (Android version) also seamlessly integrates with the Konnwei BT adapter. It’s worth noting that while the Android version of TuneECU offers diagnostic capabilities, the PC version, requiring a wired OBD2 adapter with an FTDI chip for USB serial communication, is necessary for ECU remapping. For tasks like adjusting fuel maps for aftermarket exhausts or loading custom tunes, the PC version of TuneECU remains essential. However, the convenience of using a Bluetooth OBD2 adapter with an Android tablet for quick diagnostics and monitoring cannot be overstated, especially for garage or roadside use.
Intrigued by the possibilities, I also tested a more premium OBD2 BT adapter, the OBDLink LX from ScanTool, priced around $50. This adapter is designed to work with ScanTool’s proprietary Android app, “OBDLink,” also available on the Google Play Store at no extra cost. Interestingly, OBD Fusion and OBDLink apps share a striking resemblance and offer similar functionalities. The key distinction is that OBDLink is specifically tailored for the OBDLink LX adapter, while OBD Fusion boasts broader compatibility with most ELM327-based generic Bluetooth adapters. Both apps, in my opinion, deliver performance comparable to professional mechanic scan tools costing significantly more.
Ultimately, my experience highlights the remarkable value proposition of cheap OBD2 adapters. For a mere $20 or less, you can equip yourself with a near-professional-grade scan tool for your modern motorcycle. As a practical demonstration, I even mounted my 7-inch tablet above my bike’s instrument cluster and utilized the virtual dashboard feature within one of the OBD2 apps. This setup allowed me to monitor real-time data – including MPH, RPM, oil temperature, intake air temperature, throttle position, MAP, MAF, engine load, battery voltage, and even instantaneous and average MPG – all presented in customizable digital or analog gauges while riding. It’s a truly impressive and insightful way to interact with your motorcycle’s engine data, all thanks to the power of cheap OBD2 technology.
