Common Motorcycle Battery Questions

How do I determine the correct replacement battery for my motorcycle?

First, you should check your motorcycle owner's manual for dimensions and minimum recommended cranking amp specification. You could also consult a replacement battery application guide, by looking up correct make, model, year, and engine capacity, to determine which battery to buy. Although you should never use a battery with a lower capacity rating than is recommended by the manufacturer, using a battery with a higher capacity is never detrimental. This is often recommended when replacing the battery in older vehicles, to improve starting and to deliver a longer working life. The higher capacity will not affect the starting and charging system, and may improve reliability, especially in extreme weather conditions.

What is the correct way to charge my motorcycle battery?

A 1- or 2-amp charger is recommended for motorcycle batteries. Consult your battery owner's manual for the correct charging time. When you activate a new battery by filling it with acid, it will need to be completely charged before use to avoid capacity loss or early battery failure.

Is my motorcycle battery sealed?

More and more motorcycle manufacturers are using sealed motorcycle batteries in new models. Sealed Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) batteries offer higher power and longer life over conventional designs. You may replace a conventional battery with a sealed VRLA battery, but you cannot replace a sealed, VRLA battery with a conventional battery unit. Consult your owners manual for more details, batteries that are sealed have no vent caps, vent tube, and will state “sealed lead acid”.

How long should my motorcycle battery last?

The life of a bike battery is determined by a number of factors, the most important being proper maintenance. Frequency of use, journey length, climate conditions and correct charging are elements that also need to be considered. A battery that is stored for prolonged periods of time without use or recharging can develop sulfation on the plates, which will greatly reduce the useful lifetime of a battery.

What is the correct way to store a motorcycle battery?

First of all you should clean the battery case and terminals with baking soda and water, being careful to make sure the solution does not get into the battery. Always check to ensure the battery is fully charged before storing. Batteries stored in a discharged or partially-discharged state are susceptible to freezing, and an increased rate of further discharge. Store in a cool dry place (not next to a furnace or other heat source) and out of reach of children and pets. Check the state-of-charge every 45-60 days and add distilled water if needed. We do not recommend battery maintenance charger/tester for prolonged time.