Just like other vehicles such as cars, motorcycles need batteries in order to run. However, while there are plenty of high-quality motorcycle batteries on the market, not all of them are the right fit for each type of bike. If you don’t have the right battery for your motorcycle, you likely won’t get the amount of enjoyment out of riding that you deserve, since you won’t be able to count on your battery to stay reliable. Here’s a quick run-down of motorcycle batteries so that you can make the right decisions for you and your bike.
Gel cell batteries
Gel cell batteries power your motorcycle by using a gel material which is a mixture of a variety of chemicals that act as an electrolyte. Unlike other wet or flooded batteries, gel cell batteries don’t run the risk of corroding or spilling, and aren’t as high-maintenance. Because of the consistency of their electrolyte, gel cell batteries are much more durable than some other batteries. These sorts of batteries need to be charged, however, and they don’t charge as quickly as other motorcycle batteries that can take advantage of quick chargers.
Wet lead acid batteries
These kinds of batteries may be required depending on how old your motorcycle is. That’s because these sorts of batteries are the oldest style of motorcycle battery on the market. While they are capable of powering your bike, and a necessity if you have a hobby of riding or maintaining vintage motorcycles, they are not as cost-effective as some newer technologies. Wet lead acid batteries also require more maintenance than other batteries on the market, because if the liquid in the battery gets too low, you may end up damaging the battery plates.
AGM batteries
AGM (or absorbed glass matte) batteries are still another style of battery worth considering. These types of batteries are similar to wet lead acid batteries in the sense that they are powered by a liquid, lead-based electrolyte. However, unlike traditional flooded batteries, the design of an AGM battery is sealed so there’s no need to fuss with refilling the battery liquid. AGM batteries are some of the most common types of motorcycle batteries because they tend to be very low in cost. If you are interested in a cost-effective and low-maintenance option for your motorcycle, absorbed glass matte batteries are definitely well worth considering.
Recharging your motorcycle’s battery
Most motorcycle batteries are charged with a device called a trickle charger. These tools are limited in the amperage that they supply to your motorcycle battery during a charging session. You’ll want to make sure when you’re shopping for a motorcycle battery charger than the voltage of the charger matches the voltage of your battery. For example, a 12-volt gel cell battery would require a 12-volt trickle charger. Typically, a 12-volt battery will charge in no more than twenty-four hours, so you’ll be able to be back on the road in no time.
Depending on the type of motorcycle you ride, your decision for what battery to purchase may already be made for you. That being said, if you’re wondering what motorcycle batteries are the best so that you can make a better choice while shopping for your bike, the above information should be helpful. AGM batteries are generally considered to be the best and most reliable due to their cost; however, a gel cell battery may also be worth looking into depending on the sort of motorcycle you’re interested in writing. Ultimately, if you’ve done your research and weighed the pros and cons of each option, you’ll be able to find the right battery and bike to meet your needs as a rider.