Any motorcyclist worth their leather boots knows that the engine is the heart of their ride. However, without the right motorcycle battery, this engine will not function properly and the “heart” will stop beating and you will no longer be able to ride off into the sunset on your motorcycle. But, choosing the right battery can prove difficult if you do not know where to start looking.
When you are choosing a motorcycle battery there are certain considerations to keep in mind. You will need to think about the model of the motorcycle you are using, how much maintenance is required, and what the requirements of your engine are. This might sound a little technical, but considering all of these aspects will help you to choose the right motorcycle battery for your needs.
Below are some top tips for choosing the right motorcycle battery.
Consider Compatibility
One of the most important things to consider for your motorcycle battery is what your motorcycle requires in terms of a battery. You will likely be able to find the specifications in your owner’s manual, or you could speak to your motorcycle dealer and ask them to explain your specific model’s needs.
If you still have access to your old motorcycle battery, you should use this as a guideline, especially when it comes to fitting the battery correctly. You can also perform some online research about what battery will best suit your motorcycle. Choosing the incorrect motorcycle battery might mean that your motorcycle does not start or operate in the proper manner.
Think About Types
Another important consideration is the type of battery that your motorcycle might need. For example, a popular type of battery is the sealed “gel” version, as it fits many of the common motorcycle engines. You may also want to choose the AGM or Absorbed Glass Mat. This motorcycle battery type uses a mat to absorb electrolytes, making it highly versatile.
The type of battery you choose will impact how much maintenance is required, as the gel type has a lower number of leaks because the gel seals in the electrolytes and other liquids. Also, this battery will not leak even if it breaks, making it ideal for those who might ride longer distances or over rougher roads, possibly causing batteries to break.
All About Maintenance
The level of maintenance of your motorcycle battery is also an important consideration. You should ideally look for one that can uphold its performance and quality for years without the need for strenuous maintenance. However, you should still ensure that you maintain your motorcycle battery regularly to keep the machine functioning.
A gel battery might be the ideal choice for those who do not want a lot of maintenance, as these battery types are known for being easy to maintain and can help to avoid any leakages. You should ask the battery supplier how to care for your new battery if you are new to motorcycles. Making sure your battery is clean and charged is part of the maintenance process, so be sure to choose one which is easy to care for.
Pick Up On Polarity
You will need to check the polarity of your current motorcycle battery to ensure that you do not find yourself with a complicated connection problem, or that the cables are too short to connect to your bike. If you are not sure about the polarity of the battery, you can speak to a professional for help and advice.
You will need to look at which terminal is positive and which is negative in order to avoid purchasing one that has reverse polarity. If your motorcycle is connected incorrectly, the power will flow incorrectly and this can cause significant damage to the battery, and to your motorcycle. You should also ensure that the cables are the correct length for your motorcycle model, ensuring easy installation.
Perfect Power Ratings
Another aspect to consider for your motorcycle battery is the power rating. A higher power rating may mean that it has more power behind it, making for better riding quality and a more powerful motorcycle. However, a battery with more power is likely to be expensive, so be sure to keep your budget in mind.
A smaller bike might not need an overly powerful battery, either, so always consider the size and model of your motorcycle before you make a decision on your battery. If you are looking for the ideal motorcycle battery for your bike, contact Battery Clinic today for more information about what we can offer you.
