AutoZone Motorcycle Battery 101

Motorcycle Battery 101

Whether you are a seasoned rider, or you are just starting out, it is important to understand how to lengthen the life of your battery. In general, motorcycle batteries tend to have a shorter lifespan than car batteries do, especially if you live in an area that has extreme temperatures or if you do not ride your bike very much. A motorcycle battery starts the bike and keeps it running. Not only should you know some things you can do to extend the battery’s life, but you should also be able to recognize the signs that it is running low on charge and may need to be replaced.

How to Care for Your Power Sports Battery

Just as you need to perform proper maintenance on your vehicle, your motorcycle battery also needs to be cared for on a regular basis. Unlike the lifespan of car batteries, which typically range from three to five years, the lifespan of a motorcycle battery is around two years. This can be even shorter if you do not properly care for it.

You should perform battery maintenance on a monthly basis, and it typically takes 45 to 60 minutes. Wear the proper gear, such as gloves and protective eyewear, and remove the battery, disconnecting it from the negative terminal first. Use the manufacturer’s instructions as a guide and inspect the electrolyte levels of the battery. If they are low, refill them using distilled water.

Next, visually inspect the battery. Check the terminals and make sure they are connected correctly and are not broken. If there is corrosion, use a brush to clean it off. Make sure there are no cracks in the battery and that it is not swollen, which indicates a buildup of pressure. Also check for discolorations. If anything looks off about the battery, bring it in to an expert to see if it needs to be replaced.

Riding your bike frequently helps keep the battery fully charged. If you do not ride it that much, you should take it out on longer rides to charge the battery. It is also a good idea to invest in a trickle charger to charge the battery once a month or when it seems low on charge.

Just like you may know how to tell if your car battery is dead, there are signs that indicate your motorcycle battery is dead or dying. These include:

• No ignition
• Difficulties starting
• Dimming headlights or fading radio
• Leakage 
• Trouble holding a charge

Are Motorcycle Batteries Waterproof?

Batteries are not waterproof, so you do not want to keep them out in the elements. However, there are waterproof accessories for your bike so you can still be out in the rain or other wet conditions. Look for a waterproof charger, gloves, and even speakers.

Take Care of Your Motorcycle Battery

Taking care of your motorcycle battery is just as important as caring for your car battery. The first step is to ensure you purchase the right battery for your bike. The next is to conduct regular maintenance checks. Finally, if there are signs that your battery is dying or has other issues, it is important to have it inspected closer to see if it needs to be replaced.

Recommended: Learn How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Car Battery