All You Need To Find out about Motorcycle Batteries6193292

Low maintenance and relatively lightweight with low energy consumption and even lower environmental impact, you can easily see why motorcycles are probably the most convenient modes of transportation. Riding over a motorcycle can be a fun and enjoyable experience, however, it doesn't matter how great your motorcycle is, minus the motorcycle battery, then you won't be getting any exciting rides from this. The battery is basically the heart of your motorcycle, it provides the power necessary to kick-start the engine your and without one, the motorcycle cannot function. Now, in the event you expect to get the best from your 6 volt motorcycle battery, then it's only logical that know you just as much about it as you possibly can. Which is why, in this article, we will provide you with everything you need to know about motorcycle batteries to obtain the best from the battery by extension, your motorcycle.

Forms of Motorcycle Batteries There are different types of motorcycle batteries available today on the market today. The primary classification of motorcycle batteries is founded on if they are sealed, unsealed and rechargeable. Batteries can be categorized according to their size, shape and amperage ratings. In the following paragraphs, we are going to focus on the main classification of sealed, unsealed and rechargeable batteries. Unsealed battery Unsealed batteries are the type of batteries which need regular maintenance by recharging. They're known as the “old style lead acid batteries” and aren't as common in newer bikes since the sealed and easy to maintain types. The wet cell lead acid battery is a kind of unsealed battery.

   •    Wet cell lead acid battery

This battery sometimes referred to as the flooded lead-acid battery. It's one of the most used battery types in motorcycles. The distinguishing manifestation of wet lead acid batteries is that they need to be regularly topped off with distilled water to prevent damages to the motorcycle battery. It electrolytes is really a mix of distilled water and sulphuric acid. Now, this electrolyte needs to be maintained on the appropriate concentration within the battery. However, if the battery will be charged, water is lost from the wet cells through evaporation. Hence, to maintain the electrolyte concentration, and also by extension, the health and longevity of it, wet cell batteries have to be topped with distilled water occasionally. Apart from the need for regular maintenance, a major disadvantage to wet cell batteries is that the maintenance process can be hazardous due to the presence of the caustic sulphuric acid which may cause burns if it comes in contact with skin and clothing. Thus, extreme care is recommended when handling this sort of batteries. Sealed battery Sealed motorcycle batteries come premade and do not require any kind of maintenance. Basically, when you buy a sealed battery, you do not have to worry about recharging it or topping from the battery fluids. Since these batteries are sealed, they may be by function, non-spillable and don't need to be recharged. Hence, there is no point where moisture is lost to evaporation and thus, the electrolytes that keep the battery charged stay at the appropriate concentration and won't need refilling. Today, most new motorcycles use the sealed and maintenance free batteries. There are 2 main kinds of sealed battery namely; the gel cell battery as well as the AGM battery.

   •    Gel cell battery

The gel cell battery is a type of sealed motorcycle battery and because the name implies, it is filled with silica like gel accountable for suspending the electrolytes inside the cell. Due to their sealed functionality, unlike a wet lead acid battery, gel cell batteries don't need maintenance. Whether or not the battery breaks, gone will be the spillage or leaking of electrolytes. Also, they're not prone to corrosion, many thanks to the sealed design.

   •    AGM battery

The Absorbed Glass Mat battery, popularly abbreviated to AGM battery is a type of lead-acid motorcycle battery. This sort of battery is indeed named since it comes with a mat that is designed to absorb the electrolytes in the battery cells, in a way that the solution will not slop around as it does in flooded cell batteries. AGM batteries are generally used in motorcycles with gas engines and they're the latest battery technology. Such as the gel cell batteries, AGM batteries come sealed and thus do not require any sort of maintenance. Although their performance output is similar to those of gel cell batteries, AGM batteries aren't as expensive as his or her sealed counterpart which may explain why they're more commonly used. Features to take into account When Buying a motorbike Battery Not all motorcycle batteries are the same, and we are not merely talking about when they are sealed or unsealed in cases like this. Batteries can be found in a wide range of specifications so if you're looking to get a new battery for your motorcycle, apart from making sure that it's a type created for the engine of one's motorbike, there are other specifications you will have to look out for before making a purchase. There are a selection of possibilities and it can be overwhelming deciding on a battery that delivers satisfactory performance if you do not know what to choose. That said, here are a few features you have to look out for that can help you narrow down your quest to ensure you get the best motorcycle battery to your motorbike.

   •    Size and material

Think about consider if you are looking to buy a motorbike battery is the size of it and the materials it really is made with. It's imperative to be sure that the dimensions of the brand new battery resemble those of current battery for this to fit your engine perfectly. A small battery may rattle around, unable to reach the cables while a bigger battery could damage your bike. As such, it goes without saying that locating a battery which is compatible with your motorcycle is of utmost importance. About the construction, be aware of materials which can be durable and offer resistance to heat, pressure, and vibration because these elements are capable of damaging your battery.

   •    Power rating

The energy rating of your motorcycle battery is represented in volts, this technical detail is really a major determinant of the overall performance of one's motorcycle battery. Every motorcycle features a voltage requirement of optimal productivity. Employing a battery that will not meet your motorcycle's voltage requirement will bring about a lowering of its performance. On the average, a motorcycle battery possesses 12-volts, however, your bike may require something higher or lower depending on its model. Prior to deciding to complete the purchase, ensure that the voltage from the battery meets the specifications to your motorcycle in order to avoid damaging it. In cases of doubt, an increased power rating is definitely recommended.

   •    Cold Cranking Amps

The Cold Cranking Amps often abbreviated to CCA is the number of amps a lead acid battery can perform delivering at 32°F (or O°C) for 30 seconds while it maintains a minimum of 1.2 volts per cell. In case your bike remains new with just a few miles onto it, then you might desire to go for a battery with lower amps. However, older types of motorcycles or bikes which may have a substantial variety of miles around the engine will need batteries having a higher CCA.

   •    Performance

Take into consideration to take into consideration will be the performance with the battery, this means the power your battery is capable of doing producing. An electric battery with low power will need more frequent maintenance and charging compared to those with a higher power. Your riding style determine the performance with the battery you obtain. If you have a tendency to ride with greater regularity, you will need a battery with better than average performance. You don't want to have to charge a fee battery continually while you're on a long ride. Because along with this being time wasting, it will definitely decrease the longevity of battery.

   •    Warranty

It's obvious that you should always choose a battery with an extended warranty from the manufacturer. In this way, if the battery develops any fault inside period of coverage, you can always return it towards the manufacturer for assist with it. The way to Install a Motorcycle Battery Listed below are the basic guidelines for installing a motorbike battery

   •    The first step, remove the old battery. To achieve this, first of all, disconnect the bolt from the negative wire and set it away from the positive wire and metals.
   •    Next, disconnect the positive cable in the bolt, equally as in the 1st step. After successful disconnection, gently eliminate the old battery from the holder.
   •    Place the brand new battery inside the battery holder and begin reconnecting the disconnected cables.
   •    This time around, start with the positive cable. Attach the positive wire towards the positive terminal then connect the negative wire to its terminal. 
   •    Ensure it is secured as a substitute and you are done.

Battery Maintenance and care Tips As earlier mentioned, some batteries are maintenance free, hence, they do not require the any type of special care or focus on keep them running in excellent condition. However, the standard motorcycle batteries need frequent maintenance to ensure their functionality is not lost over time. When it comes to batteries, something is certain, they'll definitely fail one day, how long it lasts will probably be dependent on the method that you treat it while it is still functioning. Based on manufacturers, the average life expectancy of your motorcycle battery is between Two to five years. Nonetheless, if you don't take proper care of your battery, you might find yourself needing an alternative sooner than later. Listed below are some motorcycle battery maintenance and care tips to ensure that your batteries enjoy a healthy and long lifespan.

   •    Always undertake visual checks as frequently as possible, at least one time every month is usually recommended. Clean it posts and terminals regularly in order to avoid accumulation of dirt and sulfates, the dirty connection can make it harder for the battery to start the engine. Use a steel wire brush to wash around the battery posts, water, and baking soda will take care of the sulfate build-up. Also, be sure you check the connections to make certain there are no loose wires.
   •    Top off the water amounts of your battery cells with sterilized water at least twice per month to keep the electrolyte concentration in the required level.
   •    Never enable your battery to get fully discharged before charging it. However, if the battery is totally discharged and you need to jumpstart it, make certain that it is fully charged prior to deciding to set out to ride from it.
   •    Do not overcharge your motorcycle battery as this will only increase the chances of battery damage. Utilizing a smart motorcycle charger is one way to stop your battery from overcharging. Just plug it to your bike and when the battery has been fully charged, the smart charger will disconnect automatically. Connecting your battery to a smart charger will not just keep your battery at optimum voltage, it will ensure that the ECU memories and home security systems are kept active.
   •    Most batteries are not equipped fully charged so always ensure your new motorcycle battery is fully charged before installing it in your engine.
   •    A motorcycle battery isn't supposed to be warm to feel while it is charging. If you see an increase in temperature while charging battery, disconnect it and let it cool before trying to recharge it. Overheating while charging may cause the lead plates with the battery to warp that can inevitably damage your battery.
   •    While recharging your battery seems to be an easy process, be aware that you are working with explosive gases so it is best to wear protective clothing. 
   •    Never charge your battery with open vent caps. Always reinstall your caps after adding water before you begin the recharging process.
   •    When you might be done charging your battery, first of all, switch off the charger before disconnecting the cables from the charger from your battery.

Factors that will Damage Motorcycle Batteries Now you know how to care for your motorcycle battery, you should also learn about the factors that damage your battery and shorten its lifespan drastically. Below are a few of the things you need to avoid when confronted with a motorcycle battery;

   •    Heat

Exposing your battery to excessive heat will destroy it. Store your motorcycle battery in cool not although not cold temperatures. High temperatures will increase the rate of launch of batteries and temperatures beyond 130°F can handle drastically decreasing the lifespan of one's battery. Do not allow your battery overheat and keep it away from heat if you would like it to last long.

   •    Vibration

If your battery is not properly mounted, then vibrations out of your motorcycle might cause the battery to rattle. The very last thing you need is your motorcycle battery rattling around inside your engine. Ensure your batteries are properly mounted if you'd like it to last longer. You can install bumpers and supports within your battery box to assist. If the type of your motorcycle tends to have strong vibrations, then a maintenance free battery will be the more suitable type because of it.

   •    Freezing

Unless your battery is fully charged, then it should not be stored at very low temperatures. It is because, at sub-freezing temperatures, battery cells will discharge, turning the acid to water that can freeze at 32°F. Beyond discharging the battery, such low temperatures can buckle the plates and crack the case, damaging battery.

   •    Riding style

Your riding style have a huge impact on how long your battery lasts. Short trips which involve turning the engine on and off frequently, will draw current repeatedly since the battery will need to work harder to ignite the engine any time you turn it on. This may cause the battery to discharge at a quicker rate. Thus, if you are planning to be driving round the city a lot, you may want to watch out for your battery.

Conclusion It wouldn't be unnatural to say that the battery is among the most important areas of the motorcycle because, without them, you will not be going anywhere with this bike. This informative guide offers all you need to know about motorcycle batteries - from your different types of motorcycle batteries to features to take into account when you are looking for the best motorcycle battery along with maintenance tips on how to take care of your battery. Follow this informative guide and we can promise that will get the best from your battery.