Motorcycle Batteries Maintenance, Charging & Recommendations
How long is my Motorcycle battery supposed to last? Answer to other questions, too!
With technology continuously evolving, an effective battery is a must for all contemporary bikes. And although some antique motorcycles may be prodded to life with a kick starter, a fresh battery genuinely makes our riding simpler.
However, while it’s time to replace that old power sport battery, there can frequently be few doubts about all of the different types and what all designations and specs suggest. Getting the proper battery is vital to the motorcycle’s overall performance, the life cycle of the battery, and of course, getting home.
So, let's clarify few things:
I. There are 2 kinds of lead acid batteries, also known as Valve Regulated Lead Acid (or VRLA) - GEL cell and Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries. They differ from the lead acid batteries, called "Conventional" or "flooded" batteries with their capacity to eliminate the need to top off the electrolyte, avoid corrosion of the terminals and let us not forget they're sealed and non-spillable.
II. Have you ever wondered what CCA stands for?
- CCA stands for Cold Cranking Amps which directly relates to the battery performance. Therefore, the higher the CCA the better the battery performs at start-up. Additionally, CCA is measured as the current the battery delivers for a 30 second period.
III. You may have heard that a "wet" cell battery sulfates under certain conditions which results in damage for the battery. In fact, this is true for conventional or flooded wet-cell batteries - they do spill acid which can cause corrosion but this is not the case for a sealed, non-spillable battery replacement which we recommend!
IV. Maintenance & Good Storage Practices.
Charging: Conventional AGM or flooded batteries may encounter damage and not recoup their full capacity in the event that at all times the battery had been incompletely charged when put into storage, regardless of whether they are charged preceding re-installation.
Constant undercharging likewise will cause extreme sulfating deposits that won't separate with a typical recharging, leaving the battery inclined to failure. Solely proper charging will destroy internal sulfation and keep it away from accumulating in the battery. The optimal voltage for a full charge can be found within the OEM specifications.
Capacity: Additionally to charging the battery itself, it should be stored at a proper temperature, particularly when the open air atmosphere is exceptionally chilly or hot. Optimal storage temperatures and proposals can be also found within the OEM Spec sheet.
V. Lastly but not least important is the precautionary steps ought to be taken when it comes down to handling, removing or servicing these batteries.
Gloves, we should say, are a must when you handle, install or remove the battery and never hold the battery for too long especially, against your body (and face). A spillage of acid or corrosion can damage your clothes or the worst - skin. Below are some guidelines for replacement:
1. Make sure to disconnect all cables before giving the battery for recycling.
2. Swap deteriorated insulation damaged by corrosion/acid.
3. Place the replacement battery in its proper space.
4. Remember to always connect your motorcycle battery - positive cable to positive terminal and negative cable to negative terminal.
