Champion 201160 - 12000/15000W Portable Generator With Electric Start

In a nutshell, the Champion 201160 is a powerful portable generator mostly geared towards professionals in need of safely powering high-intensity work or lighting equipment.

In the forthcoming sections, you'll delve into its power characteristics, the various outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the additional features it boasts.

Power & Run Time

The Champion 201160

Running on gasoline, the Champion 201160 operates with a 717 cc V-Twin engine, delivering 120/240V, with a running wattage of 12,000W and a peak wattage of 15,000W.

Rated for 78 dBA (less noisy than a shower), the generator's starting mechanism relies on a convenient and efficient electric starter (battery included).

The 201160's fuel tank holds 11 gallons, ensuring uninterrupted operation for around 9 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption approximately 1.22 GPH).

The quite high THD (<20%) of the 201160 makes it unsuitable for powering sensitive electronic devices.

Outlets

The control panel features 7 AC outlets as follows:

Though it may not be labeled as 'RV Ready,' this Champion generator offers the benefit of hassle-free RV connectivity through its L5-30R receptacle, allowing you to easily power your RV with the assistance of an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor. Besides, since it boasts a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the 201160 is engineered to be transfer switch ready, ensuring easy integration with your breaker box to provide backup power to your home during outages.

Portability

With a size of L33 x W33.7 x H33.1 in, the Champion 201160 features an open frame design, providing stability and simplified maintenance access to components, enhancing air circulation. The device has been designed for tough environments and demanding outdoor use.

While the generator is considered to be technically 'portable' (in the sense that you can move it), manually lifting and transporting it may be challenging, due to its high weight of 328.7 lbs. Still, once it is on the ground, its wheel kit (⌀12") and its folding handle can easily solve the issue of low mobility and allow for easy relocation of the device.

A lift hook located on the top of the frame offers an additional safety feature while facilitating the transport, loading and unloading of the generator.

Features

The 201160's control panel

One of the many 201160's features is the digital Intelligauge data center, included in its control panel, which conveniently provides information on the power output, frequency, voltage and lifetime run hours and thus, helps you monitor its activity and status.

The generator allows for a quick, easy and convenient assessment of its gas level, as it is equipped with a built-in fuel gauge.

In terms of security, the generator features an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, ensuring peace of mind during its use. Champion's built-in surge protector (Volt Guard™) safeguards your equipment and appliances against voltage spikes.

The unit also benefits from the CO Shield™ technology, which monitors accumulation of poisonous carbon monoxide (CO) gas produced by the engine's exhaust when the generator is running. If CO Shield™ detects elevated levels of CO gas, it automatically shuts off the engine and illuminates a red LED.

Beyond the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to assist with setup, the Champion 201160 ships with supplementary accessories: funnel and oil.