Motorcycle performance relies heavily on a dependable, long-lasting battery. This is an often overlooked aspect of bike maintenance.
Choosing the best motorcycle battery or the battery you need can be a difficult decision. There are a lot of factors to consider when buying a battery, such as price, size, and safety. This article will provide you with a list of questions to ask yourself when buying a battery, and a few tips to ensure the perfect fit.
What is a motorcycle battery?
It's a small battery that is used to power small electrical devices, such as the lights on a motorcycle. It is usually found in the engine compartment of a motorcycle. The battery is usually made up of positive and negative terminals, which are connected to inner metal plates called cathode plates. Each cell is filled with a sulfuric acid solution, which is the electrolyte.
Outside the battery, the terminals are connected to thick copper wires that are connected to the motorcycle's wiring system. These wires then connect to the lights, the horn, the starter, and other small electrical devices.
How to know if your battery is good?
The first and most important step in finding the best motorcycle battery is to know what your expectations are:
- Are you looking for a battery that will last for a long time?
- Are you looking for one that will provide you with a lot of power? Or
- Are you looking for a battery that will provide you with a lot of power and a lot of life?
A battery that will provide you with a lot of power will often be more expensive than a battery that provides a lot of life. It is important to know what you're looking for before you start your search. You should also consider how often you plan on using the motorcycle battery. If you plan on using the battery a lot, you may want to go for a battery that provides a lot of power. If you plan to use the battery less, you may want to invest in a battery that provides a lot of life.
How to choose a battery?
The best motorcycle battery or battery you need is one that will last for a long time. You can find one that lasts for months or one that lasts for years. You will also want to consider how much you want to spend. If you want to save on battery costs, you will want to find a battery that is not as expensive. You will also want to find a battery that is easy to mount. If you want a good battery, you will also want to find one that is easy to charge.
Types of batteries
Most of the frames may look similar due to the fact that they all need to fit within a specific area or box, yet the inner part of the battery will have different chemistry. There are four choices and these are;
- Wet-cell battery (lead-acid)
- AGM Battery
- Gel battery and
- Li-ion battery (lithium)
Wet-cell battery
The basic wet-cell car battery is the original battery from 150 years ago. It is a construction of lead plates, sulfuric acid, and pure water that continues to be a fairly effective means of keeping a charge of electricity. However, it requires routine checks to keep up the acid and water levels. Although the design remains similar, these batteries are reasonably cheap. Yet the large negative aspect for the motorcyclist is that if you accidentally drop one or tip one over, anything made of iron alloy will start to corrode, and if you happen to get some acid on your skin it will start to burn. If any part of the clothing becomes wet, the sulfuric acid will chemically burn the wet area.
AGM battery
This battery is an advancement from the wet-cell battery that makes use of dry-cell innovation. It is secured and therefore maintenance-free. The large advantage for motorcyclists is that there is nothing to splash out, and the battery does not need to remain upright. Without the acid in between the lead plates, it's made far more compact, so it needs much less area on the motorbike. With hardly any downsides, this battery has become one of the most sought-after motorbike batteries.
Gel battery
These have a mixture of jelly-like sulfuric acid and silica. These have all the advantages of AGM batteries, are mainly untouched by temperature level changes, and also are immune to resonance/vibration, which makes them almost perfect as motorbike batteries.
Gel batteries have 2 downsides. Firstly they can only be charged slowly and gradually. They can be used to jump-start, yet you can not rapid-charge them.
Secondly, they cost more than AGM batteries. Although the price difference is not that great it still keeps some motorists from buying them.
Li-ion battery
These are the latest technology, they are made a lot smaller in size and also as much as 70% lighter. When it comes to safety, they're entirely secure. If you shatter one accidentally, all you will end up with is a shattered battery.
The main drawbacks of Li-ion batteries are the higher cost, they don't seem to handle the cold weather well in winter, and they can't deal with heavy electrical loading from motorbike accessories or other devices well.
Basically, if you have a lightweight competition motorbike and also you're attempting to save every extra ounce of weight, lithium-ion bike batteries are what you need. On the other hand, if you have a completely packed touring motorbike, use the AGM battery.
Conclusion
The best motorcycle battery or battery you need is one that will ensure a long-lasting, trouble-free ride for you.
- You want to choose one that is easy to install and will provide you with a lot of power.
- You should also consider the size of the motorcycle battery.
- You should also consider the number of cells the battery has, lastly,
- You should consider the price of the battery.
Can we help? We've done the research for you and found the Best Motorcycle Battery on Amazon. Every day, we read hundreds of reviews and try the highest-rated products we have on our list.
Best Motorcycle Battery - Reviews
The Best
Product information
Introducing a high-performance battery that boasts a 12 Volt, 11 amp-hour rating, and an impressive 210 cold cranking amps. This power-packed unit is designed for those who demand superior performance and unwavering reliability. The specifications are a testament to its ability to deliver consistent power, even under the harshest conditions. The 12 Volt and 11 amp-hour ratings ensure that it provides ample power for your needs, while the 210 cold cranking amps guarantee a reliable start in colder climates.
One of the standout features of this battery is its sealed, maintenance-free design. This means it's completely sealed and spill-proof, providing you with peace of mind and ease of use. The technology deployed ensures all acid is absorbed into special plates, with absorbed glass mat separators further enhancing the safety and efficiency of the unit. This design eliminates the risk of spills and leaks, making it a safe and reliable choice.
The battery comes factory-activated, which means it's filled, sealed, and charged at the factory. This feature provides the convenience of immediate use, saving you time and effort. Factory activation also ensures optimal performance as it's prepared under controlled conditions. Therefore, you can be confident that the battery will perform to its full potential right from the moment it's installed.
Notably, this battery employs advanced lead-calcium technology, a feature that sets it apart from conventional batteries. This technology allows it to hold its specific gravity more than three times longer. In simple terms, this means the battery maintains its charge for a much longer period, reducing the frequency of recharges and extending its lifespan. It's an innovation that enhances efficiency and offers long-term cost savings.
Finally, this high-performance battery requires no water addition throughout its life span. This is a significant advantage as it reduces maintenance requirements, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a hassle-free solution. No need for regular check-ups or water additions, this battery is designed to perform without the need for constant attention. In essence, it combines power, convenience, and longevity, making it a superior choice for all your power needs.
Durability is better than other makes. Maintenance-free to last for many years.
No returns as it's a hazardous product. We have noticed that batteries these days don't seem to last as long as other previous models.
Our Thoughts - We selected this battery as the best because it is. Like many other reviews, no product is perfect but this battery has made the highest amount of customers very happy.
Very Good
Product information
Experience the power of a 12V, 9Ah battery with 190 cold cranking amps - a high-performance, sealed, maintenance-free powerhouse.
| Brand | Yuasa |
| Size | YTZ10S |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Battery Cell Composition | Lead Acid |
| Item Weight | 7 Pounds |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 5.91 x 3.43 x 3.66 inches |
| Number Of Cells | 6 |
A very good battery for a good price. As good as OEM quality.
The wrong battery was received. For a very small percentage of batteries, durability was bad.
Our Thoughts - YUASA batteries are one of the best, we think it must have been a bad batch.
Very Good
Product information
If you own a Harley-Davidson model from 1997 to 2020, be it an Electra Glide, Road Glide, Road King, Street Glide, or Ultra Classic, we have some great news for you. We've got the perfect battery that not only fits these models perfectly but also enhances their performance to a significant degree. This precision fit is designed to offer ease of installation and optimal power delivery, ensuring your motorcycle operates at its best.
Proudly made in the U.S.A., this high-performance motorcycle battery comes fully charged and ready for installation. It's maintenance-free, meaning you can install it and forget about it while enjoying enhanced performance and reliability. This premium battery is a testament to American engineering, promising durability, quality, and excellent performance.
The power and quality of this battery are on par with original equipment batteries. With a Cold Cranking Amperage (CCA) of 400 and a 28 Amp Hours (AH) rating, it's designed to deliver dependable power whenever you need it. Its dimensions are L = 6 5/8, W = 5 3/16, H = 6 7/8, and it weighs 23 lbs, making it a compact powerhouse that fits perfectly in your bike.
This battery features AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) technology, which is non-spillable and sealed for safety. The heat-sealed cover adds to its robustness, while the patented solid lead female threaded terminals ensure a secure connection. To make installation even easier, it comes with new stainless steel bolts included. This combination of advanced technology and thoughtful design ensures reliable performance and longevity.
Finally, to back up our confidence in this product, we offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you're not satisfied with the product, you can return it within 30 days for a full refund. Moreover, we provide an 18-month free replacement warranty. This means that if the battery fails within 18 months of purchase, we'll replace it for free. We're committed to providing you with a high-quality product and excellent customer service.
Apparently, the customer service seems fine. A very large percentage of customers are very happy with this battery.
Durability is questioned. Some batteries arrive fully charged, while others are not charged.
Our Thoughts - Could it be made in the USA but designed in China? This battery has some niggly issues.
Best Value
Product information
Introducing the YTX7A-BS, a sealed lead acid (SLA) battery that is both reliable and efficient. This 12V 6AH powerhouse boasts an impressive 105 Cold Cranking Amps (CCA), ensuring that it delivers optimal performance even in challenging conditions. The YTX7A-BS is designed to provide the power you need, whenever you need it, making it a dependable choice for your power requirements.
The YTX7A-BS is compact and well-designed, with dimensions of 5.90 inches x 3.38 inches x 3.70 inches. The polarity is thoughtfully arranged with positive on the left and negative on the right for easy installation. Please note that this listing includes the battery and screws only; no wire harness or mounting accessories are included. This design feature allows for customization according to your specific needs.
This SLA/AGM spill-proof battery stands out due to its high discharge rate, allowing it to deliver power quickly when required. It also boasts wide operating temperatures, ensuring it performs optimally whether in a hot summer or a cold winter. Furthermore, it enjoys a long service life and offers deep discharge recovery. These features combine to make the YTX7A-BS a durable and reliable choice for your power needs.
One of the key features of the YTX7A-BS battery is its versatility. This rechargeable battery can be mounted in any position, offering flexibility in installation. It also resists shocks and vibration, ensuring it remains secure even in rough conditions. Its high performance in both high and low temperatures makes it a robust and reliable power solution, regardless of the environment.
Your investment in the YTX7A-BS battery is protected by a comprehensive 30-day refund policy. If you're not satisfied with the product, you can return it within 30 days for a full refund. Additionally, we offer a full 1-year warranty for the product. This means that if you encounter any issues with the battery within the first year of purchase, we will replace it free of charge. We believe in the quality and reliability of our products and are committed to ensuring your satisfaction.
Good value for money. Much cheaper than the big box stores.
Arrived damaged and no returns are allowed. We expected better durability. The cranking power is not on par with other batteries.
Our Thoughts - A reasonable battery for many motorcycles. The cranking power is not great but it seems to have enough to do the job.
Good
Product information
Experience the future of battery technology with NOCO Lithium. This innovative product outperforms traditional lead-acid batteries in almost every aspect. There's no need to worry about sulfation or the hassles of activation, acid, maintenance, or water. The NOCO Lithium comes fully charged and ready for installation, simplifying your life and enhancing your vehicle's performance.
The NOCO Lithium delivers an impressive performance that leaves its lead-acid competitors far behind. It provides over 400 amps of starting power, over 50,000 starts, and more than 2,000 charge cycles. In simpler terms, you're looking at double the power, ten times more starts, and a lifespan five times longer than traditional batteries. This insane performance makes it a game-changer in the world of batteries.
Central to the NOCO Lithium's extraordinary performance is its dynamic Battery Management System (BMS). This advanced system ensures maximum safety protection and features bi-directional active cell balancing for long-lasting reliability. Unlike other systems, this BMS doesn't require resetting, making it user-friendly and hassle-free.
Charging your NOCO Lithium is super fast and efficient. Thanks to the power of lithium and the most advanced rapid-charge technology, your battery can reach full starting power within just five minutes of charging. This rapid recharge feature enables you to get back on the road faster than ever before.
The NOCO Lithium battery is universally adaptable. Its multi-terminal configuration allows for front, side, top, and female installations, providing flexibility to suit your specific needs. Plus, the modular trays can accommodate various group sizes, and a removable mounting block ensures compatibility with legacy battery applications.
Furthermore, the NOCO Lithium is compatible with a wide range of Powersports brands. Whether you ride an Aprilla, BMW, Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Indian, Triumph, KTM, or any other brand, the NOCO Lithium is your perfect power companion. It also works seamlessly with ATVs, UTVs, PWCs, quads, 4-wheelers, jet skis, wave runners, scooters, riding lawnmowers, generators, and more.
For the most accurate fitment, add your powersports vehicle to your Amazon Garage. The NOCO Lithium replaces a range of battery sizes, including BTX7A-BS, BTX9-BS, BTR9-BS, EXT9, YTX7A-BS, YTX9, and YTX9-BS. With NOCO Lithium, you're investing in a product that offers superior power, performance, and longevity.
The power compared to other batteries is awesome.
According to the company (NOCO), they have no reference chart. NOCO has a bad return policy. A defective battery was delivered.
Our Thoughts - Not such a bad battery. It can be used for numerous motorcycles and other vehicles.
Good
Product information
The Throttlex MX30L battery's secret to success lies in its AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) technology. This sophisticated technology, coupled with highly porous microfiber separators, completely absorbs and traps the acid within the battery. The result is a spill-proof and leak-proof battery that offers extended service life, making it a reliable choice for your Harley Davidson.
Fresh from the factory, the MX30L is guaranteed to be a perfect fit for your Harley. It has been meticulously designed and tested to ensure compatibility and easy installation. With the MX30L, you can rest assured knowing that your Harley is powered by a battery designed specifically for it.
Among ThrottleX's extensive range of batteries, the MX30L stands out as one of the most popular choices. Its combination of advanced technology, reliability, and compatibility has made it a preferred choice among many Harley Davidson riders. Its robust performance and durability have earned it a strong reputation and a loyal following in the riding community.
Choosing ThrottleX means choosing a hassle-free experience. The MX30L comes ready to install and use, eliminating the need for any complicated setup or preparation. Simply buy the battery, install it in your Harley, and you're ready to ride.
With ThrottleX, you can ride with confidence. You're not just purchasing a battery; you're investing in a product backed by advanced technology, rigorous testing, and a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. The MX30L isn't just a battery - it's a testament to ThrottleX's dedication to providing the best for Harley Davidson riders.
Good battery for the money. Many customers think it's a great battery.
Some customers reported that they don't last more than two years, could it be a bad batch? A bit expensive for what it delivers.
Our Thoughts - Overall it's a fairly good battery but it's not great.
FAQs
Can my original motorcycle battery be replaced with a more powerful one?
Firstly, it's crucial to understand that simply fitting a larger or more powerful battery won't necessarily improve the performance of your motorcycle. This is because the battery will still discharge as long as you're using more power than what's being generated by your bike. Therefore, it's essential to consider the overall electrical demands of your motorcycle before deciding to upgrade to a bigger battery.
When considering an upgrade, the type of battery also plays a significant role. For instance, replacing a traditional lead-acid battery with a lithium one might work. However, lithium batteries have specific charging needs, and not meeting these requirements could potentially lead to problems like overheating or even fire.
It's also worth noting that it isn't necessary to replace your existing battery with one that has the highest Cold Cranking Amps (CCAs) or Ampere-hours (Ah) possible. While these specifications may provide more starting power or longer lifespan, they might also end up costing more without providing any noticeable benefits.
If your current battery is failing or underperforming, you can certainly replace it with a similar one. If you wish to upgrade to a larger or more powerful battery, it's important to make sure that it fits your motorcycle and meets the bike's power requirements. Lithium Ion batteries are often considered a great replacement for lead-acid batteries due to their lighter weight, stronger power, and longer lifespan.
What is the longest-lasting motorcycle battery?
Industry insiders generally agree that the average lifespan of a motorcycle battery ranges from 3-5 years. However, some batteries outperform this average, offering longer lifespans and superior performance.
Lithium-ion batteries are known for their longevity, with some able to last up to 2,000 cycles. This, combined with faster charging times and more cranking power than standard lead-acid batteries, makes them a popular choice among riders.
AGM batteries are renowned for their durability and resistance to vibration, which can significantly extend their lifespan.
However, the longevity of a battery isn't solely dependent on its type or brand. Proper maintenance plays a crucial role in extending a battery's lifespan. Regularly checking the battery's charge, keeping it clean, and ensuring it's stored properly during off-seasons can all contribute to a longer-lasting battery.
How many amps should a motorcycle battery have?
There isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. The amperage of a motorcycle battery can vary greatly based on the make and model of your motorcycle, as well as the type of battery you choose.
Typically, a motorcycle battery will have between 5 and 20 amp hours (Ah), with common ones being around 12V. Amp hours refer to the amount of charge that a battery can deliver over a specific period. For example, a 14 Ah rating means the battery can discharge 1.4 amps for 10 hours.
In terms of cranking power, a standard motorcycle battery can deliver a maximum of about 250 amperes. This measure, known as Cold Cranking Amps (CCA), is essential for starting your motorcycle, especially in cold weather.
However, when it comes to charging your motorcycle battery, the maximum recommended charge rate is between 0.75 and 2 amps. Charging at a higher rate could potentially damage the battery over time. This is why most automotive chargers, which can pump out 13, 30, or even 50 amps, may not be suitable for charging motorcycle batteries.
Remember, the size of the battery also plays a role in determining its charging amperage. For instance, larger batteries may tolerate charging at higher amperages, ranging from 3 amps to 30 amps.
