There’s nothing more frustrating than being out on a ride and having your motorcycle battery die. Not only is it a pain to have to walk back home, but it can also be dangerous if you’re in the middle of nowhere.
So, how do you choose the best motorcycle battery for your bike? And what are some things to keep in mind when buying one? Keep reading for all the info you need!
What Does a Motorcycle Battery Do?
A motorcycle battery is responsible for powering all the electrical components on your bike. This includes things like the headlight, taillight, turn signals, and horn. Additionally, it also helps to start the motorcycle’s engine.
Without a motorcycle battery, your bike simply won’t be able to function.
The Different Types of Motorcycle Batteries
Before we get into how to choose the best motorcycle battery, let’s first go over the different types of motorcycle batteries. There are three main types of motorcycle batteries:
Lead-acid batteries
Lead-acid batteries are the most common type of motorcycle battery. They’re also the cheapest. However, they don’t last as long as other types of motorcycle batteries and need to be replaced more often.
Lithium-ion batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are more expensive than lead-acid batteries, but they last longer. They’re also much lighter, which is a bonus if you have a lightweight motorcycle.
AGM batteries
AGM (absorbent glass mat) batteries are a type of lead-acid battery. They’re more expensive than regular lead-acid batteries, but they last longer and don’t require as much maintenance.
Other than these three types, there are batteries specifically designed for certain types of motorcycles. For example, there are specially-made motorcycle batteries for Harley-Davidsons, while other batteries are designed for dirt bikes.
What to Look for When Choosing a Motorcycle Battery
Now that you know the different types of motorcycle batteries, let’s discuss how to choose the best one for your bike. There are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind:
The quality certification
Make sure the motorcycle battery you’re interested in has a quality certification. This will ensure that the battery meets certain standards and will be less likely to break down.
The size
Motorcycle batteries come in all different sizes. You’ll need to make sure you choose one that’s the right size for your motorcycle. Otherwise, it won’t fit properly and could cause damage to your bike.
The type of motorcycle you have
The type of motorcycle you have will determine what kind of battery you need. If you have a lightweight motorcycle, you’ll want a lithium-ion battery. If you have a heavy motorcycle, you’ll want a lead-acid battery.
How often you ride
If you ride your motorcycle often, you’ll want a battery that can last long. Lithium-ion batteries are the best option in this case.
How much you’re willing to spend
Of course, the price of the battery is also something to consider. Lead-acid batteries are the cheapest option, while lithium-ion batteries are the most expensive.
The climate you live in
The climate you live in will affect your motorcycle battery. If you live in a hot climate, you’ll want a battery that won’t overheat. Lithium-ion batteries are good in this case.
Now that you know what to look for when choosing a motorcycle battery, you should be able to find the perfect one for your bike.
How to Maintain Your Motorcycle Battery
It’s important to know how to take proper care of your motorcycle battery. Here are a few tips:
Clean it regularly
You should clean your motorcycle battery regularly with a solution of water and baking soda. This will help remove any dirt or buildup that could prevent it from working properly.
Check the level of electrolyte
The level of electrolyte in your motorcycle battery should be checked regularly. If it’s too low, add distilled water. If it’s too high, remove some of the electrolyte with a turkey baster.
Recharge it often
You should recharge your motorcycle battery after every ride. This will help keep it working properly and prevent it from dying prematurely.
Keep it cool
You should also keep your motorcycle battery cool, as heat can damage it. If you live in a hot climate, consider storing it in a cool, dark place.
With these tips, you’ll be able to properly maintain your motorcycle battery and extend its lifespan.
Tips for Buying a New Motorcycle Battery
If you’re in the market for a new motorcycle battery, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
1. Choose the right type of battery:
As we mentioned before, there are three main types of motorcycle batteries: lead-acid, lithium-ion, and AGM. Lead-acid batteries are the cheapest, but they don’t last as long as other types of batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are more expensive, but they last longer and are lighter. AGM batteries are also more expensive, but they last longer and require less maintenance.
Besides price, consider the other factors that can affect what battery you need, such as climate, the type of motorcycle, and brand reputation.
2. Check the warranty:
When buying a new motorcycle battery, be sure to check the warranty. Some manufacturers offer warranties of up to 24 months.
3. Compare prices:
Motorcycle batteries can vary in price, so it’s important to compare prices before making a purchase. You can usually find the best deals online.
4. Read reviews:
Finally, be sure to read reviews before buying a motorcycle battery. This will help you see what other customers have to say about the product.
With these tips, you should be able to find the perfect motorcycle battery for your needs.
Where to Find the Best Deals on Motorcycle Batteries
If you’re looking for the best deals on motorcycle batteries, there are a few places you can check:
1. Online retailers:
There are a number of online retailers that sell motorcycle batteries. You can usually find the best deals on sites like Amazon or eBay.
2. Local dealerships:
Another option is to check with your local motorcycle dealership. They may have some good deals on batteries.
3. Manufacturers’ websites:
Finally, you can also check the manufacturers’ websites. Many of them offer coupons and discounts on their products.
People Also Ask
How often should I replace my motorcycle battery?
You should replace your motorcycle battery every two to three years. However, if you live in a hot climate or use your bike frequently, you may need to replace it sooner.
How much does a motorcycle battery cost?
Motorcycle batteries can vary in price, but they typically range from $30 to $100. The price isn’t necessarily an indicator of quality, so be sure to read reviews before making a purchase.
Can I use a car battery for my motorcycle?
You can use a car battery for your motorcycle, but it’s not recommended and not worth the risk at all. Car batteries are designed for different vehicles and may not work properly on a motorcycle. In addition, they’re usually much larger and heavier than motorcycle batteries, which can make them difficult to install.
What are the symptoms of a bad motorcycle battery?
Some symptoms of a bad motorcycle battery include weakness in the electrical system, slow cranking, and dim headlights. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to replace your battery.
Can I charge my motorcycle battery with a car charger?
Yes, you can charge your motorcycle battery with a car charger. However, it’s best to use a motorcycle-specific charger if possible. Motorcycle batteries require a different type of charge than car batteries, so motorcycle-specific chargers are designed to provide the right type of charge.
What is the difference between lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries?
Lead-acid batteries are the cheapest, but they don’t last as long as other types of batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are more expensive, but they last longer and are lighter.
What is the best motorcycle battery?
The best motorcycle battery is the one that fits your motorcycle and meets your needs. Be sure to read reviews and compare prices before making a purchase.
How do I install a motorcycle battery?
Installing a motorcycle battery is fairly simple. First, disconnect the negative terminal of the old battery. Then, remove the old battery from the motorcycle. Next, install the new battery in the motorcycle and connect the positive and negative terminals. Finally, start the motorcycle and let it run for a few minutes to charge the new battery.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a motorcycle battery, we hope these tips can help you make an informed decision. By looking at the type of motorcycle you have, your budget, the climate you live in, and other factors, you should be able to find the right battery to meet your needs.
Don’t forget to read some reviews before making a purchase. A higher price doesn’t necessarily mean higher quality, so reading reviews can help you find brands that are considered reliable.
Once you’ve chosen your battery, remember to properly maintain it to make sure you can spend more time riding, and less time shopping for new batteries!