Although motorcycle batteries inevitably have a finite lifespan, there are some ways to make a battery last longer. Proper maintenance and care for a battery plays a large role in its longevity, but the type of battery you buy for your motorcycle also determines how long it will last. Northeast Battery can help you find the right battery for your motorcycle and provide additional tips and information on extending the battery’s life as long as possible.
Charge Your Battery
No matter what kind of battery your motorcycle uses, one of the best ways to make it last longer is to keep it fully charged. The frequency at which you charge your bike’s battery depends on how often you ride. If you ride every day, the alternator will typically keep the battery charged to full or nearly full capacity. However, the battery naturally drains electricity if you don’t ride very often or keep your motorcycle stored for months at a time during the winter. If your bike is in storage more often than you have it out on the road, you should consider getting a battery charger to keep the battery charged.
Regular Maintenance
Like cars, motorcycles need periodic routine maintenance to stay in top form. Motorcycle batteries also have a recommended maintenance schedule that you should follow for safety reasons and to ensure your battery lasts as long as possible. A mechanic can perform a detailed inspection of the battery if you’re not sure how to maintain it on your own.
Depending on your comfort level in servicing batteries, some of the tasks that you can perform include checking the battery’s terminals for corrosion or signs of deterioration. If you spot either problem, you may be able to remove some dust and other contaminants with a wire brush. If that doesn’t solve the problem, a mechanic may need to replace the damaged parts. If the battery’s levels of distilled water are running low, they should be replenished enough so that the plates are submerged. Conventional batteries should also have adequate levels of electrolytes. The motorcycle’s battery power levels should also be tested occasionally to ensure there is enough power remaining. As with car batteries, batteries for motorcycles will lose power as they age and need to be replaced.
Ideally, you should perform maintenance on your motorcycle’s battery at least once every month. Even skipping just one service interval can impact the life of the bike’s battery.
Use the Right Battery
Another way to make your battery last as long as possible is to use the right kind. Your motorcycle’s manual explains the specific type of battery you should use. Motorcycle batteries come in various sizes, and they are made by many manufacturers. Northeast Battery will gladly help you choose the right battery for your motorcycle.
No matter what kind of motorcycle you ride, having a healthy battery is key. Maintaining the motorcycle’s battery can eliminate the need for replacing the battery sooner than necessary, which in turn saves money. A healthy battery also makes your bike safer to ride, and it can enhance the performance of your motorcycle.