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A motorcycle battery is a key component for a smooth riding experience. A good motorcycle battery powers up your bike and ensures optimal performance. Therefore, you must fit your bike with the right battery.
This guide offers you the most crucial information you need to select the best battery for your bike.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Batteries For Motorcycles
- OUR TOP PICK: Shorai Lithium Battery
- RUNNER-UP: Yuasa AGM Battery
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Megaboost Battery
Comparison of the Best Batteries For Motorcycles
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Are Motorcycle Batteries Universal?
The simple answer is no. There are different types and sizes of motorcycle batteries on the market. They vary according to dimensions, terminal connector types, and polarities, among other specifications. For your bike to operate efficiently, it should be fitted with the right battery.
Most manufacturers provide clear guidelines on the right type and size of the battery to fit into your bike. Therefore, check your bike’s manual for the correct battery specifications. It also helps to acquaint yourself with the different types of motorcycle batteries and how they work.
Suppose you fit your bike with the wrong battery. In that case, you are likely to experience certain problems, including difficulty starting the bike, loss of power when riding, and clicking noise or vibrations around the battery compartment.
Can You Really Find a Quality Battery That’s Affordable?
Aside from the motorcycle manufacturer’s recommended specifications, price is a key factor for consideration when buying a motorcycle battery. The price of motorcycle batteries ranges from as low as $20 up to above $300.
The big question when it comes to price is whether the battery's price is a clear indication of its quality. Does a high price indicate better quality and vice versa? Where do you toe the line between saving a buck on your battery purchase and cheap being expensive?
The reality is there are low-priced and premium-price batteries that are of great quality, just like there are some that are of low quality. The best way to tell that a battery is of good quality is by checking customer reviews. Also, keep in mind that lead-acid batteries are generally cheaper than lithium ones.
How to Choose a Motorcycle Battery
The following are some qualities to look out for in a motorcycle battery:
A High CCA (Cold Cranking Amps)
A high CCA ensures that your bike starts smoothly even in extremely cold weather conditions. Experts recommend that you go for a motorcycle battery with at least 200 CCA. For bigger bikes and weather conditions below 00F, 500CCA or higher is recommended.
Low Maintenance Batteries
Unlike in the past, when the only battery options were high maintenance flooded or wet design motorcycle batteries, riders now have the option of the low maintenance sealed, rechargeable batteries.
Generally, most sealed and rechargeable batteries are costlier upfront than unsealed ones. However, they have a longer lifespan, and you do not incur the extra cost of refilling.
Chrome Battery YTX30L-BS
A Longer Battery Life
You want to go for a battery that offers a longer lifespan. This will save you on the cost of replacing the battery too often. Battery life span is usually indicated per cycle ranging between 500 and 1200 cycles.
12V Power Rating
Most motorcycles require 12V power-rated batteries to operate effectively. However, smaller motorcycles operate well on 6V batteries.
Keep in mind that, although the above features are great to have in a motorcycle battery, your bikes’ manufacturer’s battery recommendations and specifications supersede all other features.
Review of the Best Batteries For Motorcycles
There are so many types and brands of motorcycle batteries on the market, which can be confusing when it comes to settling on one. Below is a review of some of the best motorcycle batteries to help you narrow down your search.
We provide an overview of the battery, what recent buyers say about it, and its pros and cons.
Best Overall:
Shorai Lithium Battery
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers reported their satisfaction with the compact size and the light weight of the Shorai Lithium battery. It also offers multiple connection options making it compatible with a wide range of motorcycles.
Furthermore, it comes with foam panels for a better fit in larger battery compartments. Notably, a new Shorai Lithium battery needs to be charged before the first-time use.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Shorai Lithium battery stands out for its ultra-light weight. It weighs less than four pounds, which is a fifth of what most lead-acid batteries weigh. The 12V battery is compatible with a wide range of motorcycles, including sportbikes, dirt bikes, street-touring motorcycles, and off-road bikes. It has a longer lifespan than conventional lead-acid batteries.
It is also easy to maintain as it has a low discharge rate and can be easily charged with a compatible lithium battery charger. Generally, the battery requires to be charged for 6-12 months. The manufacturer encourages riders to ride for at least a few hours per month to prevent the battery from tending. Otherwise, connect a tender or disconnect the negative cable from the battery.
Bottom Line
If you are keen on a light battery, then the Shorai Lithium battery is your go-to option. While previous customers have reported having a challenge starting their bikes in extremely cold weather conditions, this battery performs exceptionally well in warmer conditions.
Runner-up:
Yuasa AGM Battery
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
BMW motorcycle riders especially prefer this AGM battery. Generally, previous customers like that it is sealed, valve regulated, and spill-proof. They also like that this battery offers higher power and better electrical system compatibility than any other pure-lead batteries.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Yuasa AGM Battery particularly stands out for its functionality, longevity, and compatibility with a wide range of motorcycles.
This 12V battery incorporates in its design the Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) separators, which ensure you never have to add water to the battery. The separators and plates ensure spill-proof absorption of acid.
Its design also includes advanced lead-calcium technology that holds its gravity for more than thrice the conventional batteries.
It is compatible with a wide range of motorcycle brands, including BMW, Aprilia, Bimota, Ducati, Gas Gas, Harley Davidson, Kawasaki, Honda, Husqvarna, Hyosung, Indian, KTM, KYMCO, KAWASAKI, Moto Guzzi, Piaggio, Suzuki, Triumph, Vespa, Victory, and Yahama among others.
Bottom Line
The Yuasa AGM Battery is one of the new generation maintenance-free batteries. It has a high-quality build for efficiency, longevity, and safety. It comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Best for the Money:
Megaboost Battery
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers say that the battery is easy to install and offers sufficient power in compatible motorcycles. However, a common complaint is that the manufacturer lists the battery as an “exact fit” for a wide range of motorcycles, yet it is not the case. Riders have to either adjust the connectors or use foam panels to achieve the right fit.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Megaboost battery is a direct OEM direct replacement battery. It comes already activated from the factory. However, you will need to charge the battery with a trickle charger for at least 3 hours before using it. Trickle charging is also recommended during extended periods of minimal riding.
Bottom Line
The Megaboost battery is an affordable option for direct OEM replacement batteries. It is factory-activated and sealed, so all you have to do upon delivery is charge and install. It offers enough power for an easy start of your bike, except for a slow start in very cold weather.
Best Lithium Motorcycle Battery:
Fire Power Featherweight Battery
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers prefer the Fire Power Featherweight battery because it is super light, making it a great choice if you are keen on your bike's overall weight. It starts quite smoothly even after a long time of not riding. It is also considerably affordable in comparison with other lithium batteries of the same caliber.
Why it Stands Out to Us
As the name suggests, the Featherweight lithium battery is a super light lithium-Ion polymer battery. It can last up to 1 year without needing to be recharged. It charges fasts filling up 90% of its capacity within 6 minutes.
It offers mounting versatility as it can be fitted in different positions. The 12.6V battery offers a strong crank to start your motorcycle even in extremely cold weather.
The battery is manufactured to a more accurate exact fit in comparison to other lithium batteries. Although relatively smaller than standard motorcycle batteries, it comes with a foam panel for a good fit.
Bottom Line
The Fire Power Featherweight is a great option for consideration whether you are looking for a better option for OEM or lead-acid batteries. It is super light, fits well, and offers sufficient crank power to get your bike going even in adverse weather conditions.
Best Motorcycle Battery for Harley:
THROTTLEX HDX30L
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers reviewed the Throttlex HDX30L positively for its high cranking power, spill-proof build, heat-sealed cover, and maintenance-free design. However, some people complained that the battery died too soon – in some cases, it lasted less than 15 months.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The battery is delivered fully charged and ready to install. It offers 400CCA, which is ideal for cranking even in the winter. It incorporates the Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) technology, which ensures that the battery is spill-proof. This lead-acid battery does not require any maintenance.
The battery weighs 23lbs, making it ideal for larger bikes that require more power. Its cover is heat-sealed, and the female terminals are made of patented solid lead. It comes with an 18-month free replacement warranty and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Bottom Line
The Throttlex HDX30L is a powerful battery that offers a high cranking power in cold weather. However, it is a bit heavy (23lb); therefore, it may not be ideal if you are keen about keeping the weight of your motorcycles at a minimum or having a small bike.
Best AGM Motorcycle Battery:
Duraboost AGM Battery
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The Duraboost AGM battery is generally a good quality motorcycle battery that is priced affordably. It cracks up well, even in the winter. Besides, the battery is an easy install.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The DuraBoost AGM battery is a direct replacement OEM battery that is easy to install. It comes factory-activated, and all you need to do is trickle charge it for at least half an hour, install it, and it will be ready to use.
It offers 230CCA for smooth cranking even in winter. Furthermore, it has a better cranking power than most conventional lead-acid batteries. It is properly sealed and incorporates AGM technology to prevent acid leakage.
Bottom Line
This AGM battery is an affordable yet good quality alternative to the traditional Lead-acid batteries. The AGM technology ensures that the battery is spill-proof and safe to use. It requires minimal maintenance -mainly charging when it runs low.
Smallest Motorcycle Battery:
Antigravity AG-1601
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most buyers like the Antigravity AG-1601 for its small size, lightweight, and high cranking power. Buyers also reported that this battery lasts long up to 5 years without any problems. While its price may be on the high side, most buyers said it is worth the cost.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Antigravity AG-1601 battery is a small yet powerful motorcycle battery. It weighs about 3lb and offers 480CCA making it ideal for compact motor sportbikes or in riding conditions where extremely low weight or compact size is desired. It is an excellent battery option for 1600cc everyday bikes or up to 2000cc race bikes.
This lithium battery is built for easy installation. It offers universal options for right or left the negative terminal. Besides, it comes with adhesive-backed foam and a high-quality brass terminal for a good fit. It does not offer parasitic drain; therefore, it can last up to a year without being charged.
Bottom Line
The Antigravity AG-1601 is particularly designed to be small, lightweight, and super powerful for bikes or riding conditions that require high capacity and power while being ultra-light. It is also designed for an easy fit with the adhesive-backed foam, high-quality brass terminals, and universal right or left negative terminals. The manufacturer offers a-3 year pro-rated warranty.
Highest Cold Cranking Amp Motorcycle Battery:
Chrome Battery YTX30L-BS
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
While some buyers were happy with the high cold cranking power, price, and ease of installation, others complained that the battery broke down within a short period (in some cases, less than two years). In other cases, some riders reported that the battery lost its cranking power after a few uses.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Chrome battery YTX30L –BS is among the best in cranking power in cold conditions. The sealed AGM battery is spillage-proof and maintenance-free.
It comes fully charged and ready to use. It offers a high power of 360Watts, which is suitable. The battery is designed for an easy and versatile fit with a handle and different installation positions. The manufacturer offers an 18-month warranty on the battery.
Bottom Line
The Chrome battery YTX30L –BS is a great option to consider if you are looking for a motorcycle battery with a high cold cranking. It is easy to install and low maintenance. However, there are a few complaints regarding its loss of cranking power after a few uses.
Types of Motorcycle Batteries
Motorcycle batteries can be categorized into four main categories, as follows:
Lead-Acid Batteries
They are also referred to as wet batteries, conventional batteries, or flooded-cell batteries. These are the traditional type of batteries, the cheapest, and the most popular in the market.
In most cases, they are shipped without any battery acid but with a separate pack of the electrolyte, which is filled before installing the battery. They require to be refilled with the acid when it diminishes to keep the battery running optimally for a longer period.
These batteries are not sealed, which possess a risk of spillage, especially when tipped over. When not being used, they should be put on a trickle charger to prevent them from going flat.
AGM Batteries
Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) is a modern type of lead-acid battery. They are sealed and spill-proof, making them ideal for bikes whose battery slot is not level, dirt bikes, and off-road bikes.
Since they are sealed at the factory, you do not need to refill the acid, making them maintenance-free. They charge faster than the standard lead-acid batteries. AGM batteries are sensitive to excessive temperatures. Therefore, it may not be ideal if your battery compartment is too close to the engine.
Gel Batteries
Like AGM batteries, the gel batteries are sealed and spill-proof. They generally have a longer lifespan than AGM and standard lead-acid batteries. They maintain constant power throughout the lifetime of the battery.
Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium batteries are the future of motorcycle batteries. They mostly standout for their small, lightweight, and compact design while offering high crank power. They are generally more expensive than the other types but offer a longer lifespan.
Lithium Motorcycle Battery Pros and Cons
Over the past decade, lithium batteries have become more popular in the market and are likely to outdo the other types in the coming years. Below is a look at their pros and cons:
Pros
- Lightweight and small-sized. This makes them suitable for use in conditions whereby a low weight is desired.
- High crank power. Lithium motorcycle batteries have a higher crank power, making it easy to start the bike and keep it running smoothly. They are ideal for use in motorsport and bikes with up to 2000cc.
- Have a longer lifespan. They have a longer lifespan than the other motorcycle batteries. They last for up to 5 years.
- They discharge slowly and do not need to be put on a tender. This means that you can go for long without using your bike, and it will still crank up smoothly the next time you start it.
Cons
- They do not do well in extremely cold weather. You may need to leave the key on the engine for a little longer before the battery starts.
- Lithium-ion batteries are more expensive than other types of batteries. They also require a specific charger, which in most cases does not come with a battery, adding to your battery costs.
- They do not offer any warning signs for deterioration. The battery may function perfectly well in one moment and die in the next.
AGM vs Lithium Motorcycle Battery – Comparison Overview
To further expound on AGM vs. Lithium motorcycle batteries, below is a look at their similarities and differences:
Similarities
- Both have a voltage capacity of 12V
- Both types of batteries are sensitive to overcharging and require constant voltage monitoring to prevent overcharging
- Both batteries require a specific type of charger to charge adequately and properly
- Both are maintenance-free
- Both are spill-proof
Differences
One of the major differences between AGM and lithium batteries is in their design and mechanism of operation. AGM batteries are sealed lead-acid batteries that incorporate AGM separators to prevent leakage.
On the other hand, lithium batteries store energy in the lithium plates, and it is discharged to start the motorcycle.
Other differences between AGM batteries and lithium batteries are:
- AGM batteries operate better in cold weather than lithium batteries
- Lithium batteries are generally lighter and smaller than AGM batteries
- Lithium batteries are more expensive than AGM batteries
- Lithium batteries offer a higher crank power than AGM batteries
Conclusion
The battery may not be a part of your motorcycle that you think about often - until it is dead. However, understanding the different types of batteries will help you know which one your motorcycle has and maintain it better.
If you need to replace it, you will be clear which type of battery to go for. The above-reviewed motorcycle batteries are a great option for your consideration when looking for your next motorcycle battery.
People Also Ask
This section provides concise replies to the most common motorcycle batteries question.
How Long Does a Motorcycle Battery Last?
The lifetime of a motorcycle battery varies depending on its type, specifications, and maintenance. With that said, the lifespan of AGM batteries and Lithium batteries ranges between 3-5 years while that of wet batteries is 2-3 years.
How Many Amps is a Motorcycle Battery?
Different motorcycle batteries have different amperage. For instance, 12v batteries have varying amperage ranging from 2 amps up to 50 amps.
What Charges the Battery on a Motorcycle?
When you are riding, your motorcycle battery is charged by an alternator. The alternator produces an alternating current when the engine is running. This alternating current keeps the bike running and charges the battery.
A regulator converts some of the alternating currents to direct current for storage in the battery. The regulator also controls the amount of current going to the battery and other electronic accessories connected to the motorcycle.
How Much is a Motorcycle Battery?
The price of motorcycle batteries ranges from as low as $20 to above $300.
How Many Volts is a Motorcycle Battery?
Most motorcycle batteries have a battery voltage of between 12v or 12.6v. There are smaller batteries that have a voltage of 6V
How to Check Motorcycle Battery
You can check whether your battery is operating optimally using a voltmeter. This will require you to open your battery compartment. Since batteries contain lead-acid, they are flammable. It is best to open the battery compartment at least 1 hour after the engine has cooled down and wear protective gear.
To do the test, adjust the voltmeter to the DC scale and connect the negative and positive meter to the negative and positive terminal. Take the reading. If it is lower than 12V, the battery needs to be charged.
How Often Should You Charge a Motorcycle Battery?
Ideally, lead-acid batteries should be left fully charged all the time. However, a full charge after every 30 days should do. Also, refer to your battery’s instruction manual for guidelines on how often you should be charging it.
What Kills a Motorcycle Battery?
Aside from outliving their lifespan, motorcycle batteries can die prematurely due to poor maintenance, improper charging, overcharging, and a high discharge rate. AGM and lithium batteries are particularly sensitive to overcharging; therefore should be charged with their recommended chargers, and their voltage should be monitored while charging. Also, overburdening the battery with too many accessories can kill it.
How Do I Know if My Motorcycle Battery is Bad?
When your motorcycle battery is bad, the engine will not start. While the engine not starting may be a sign of many other electrical or mechanical problems, the failure to start will be accompanied by a dim headlight and faint horn in the case of a dead battery. Other signs of a bad motorcycle battery include a bulge on the battery, broken terminal, crack in the battery casing, or excessive discharging.
Why is My Motorcycle Battery Not Holding a Charge?
There are three main reasons why your battery is not holding a charge. These include a bad battery, excessive draining, or the battery is not charging properly in the first place. To ascertain that the battery is fully charging, do a load test with a voltmeter. Excessive draining could result from faulty wiring.
Why Would Motorcycle Battery Get Hot?
A motorcycle battery can get hot from overcharging or charging with the wrong charger. Another reason could be faulty wiring within the battery whereby the wires short circuit. Also, your regulator may be faulty, which leads to the battery overcharging when riding. Finally, your battery may have finished its lifecycles and needs replacement.
How Long Does it Take to Charge a Motorcycle Battery While Riding?
If the battery is in good condition, a 30-minutes continuous ride should be enough to fully charge the battery. Leaving the bike to idle with a running engine will not work as it requires at least 3k revs to charge.
Can a Motorcycle Battery Freeze?
Yes, a motorcycle battery can freeze if it is not fully charged at temperatures below 320F. You can tell that your battery is frozen if it won’t start the motorcycle, and upon further inspection, you find that it is swollen or cracked. In such a case, do not attempt to jump start it or to warm it up. Dispose of it appropriately and replace it with a new one.
Other Motorcycle Buyer Guides
Below are some other guides related to motorcycles:
