If you want to go anywhere on your motorcycle, you’re going to need a good-working battery. However, like all batteries, you can’t just install one and forget about maintaining it. Use this guide to learn more about choosing the right one for your bike and how to take care of it. 

FAQ About Motorcycle Batteries

How long does the battery last?

Depending on the specific battery and how well it is maintained, a motorcycle battery will last on average anywhere from two to eight years. While a conventional acid battery will typically only last for two to three years, you could get as much as five years of life out of it. 

If you want to replace the battery less, look for a sealed absorbed glass mat (AGM) model. These have an expected lifespan of three to five years and are known to last some riders for up to eight years. 

How do you maintain the battery?

For the most part, modern motorcycle batteries are maintenance-free. However, it is important to keep it charged. Regularly leaving your battery discharged for long periods will cause it to fail prematurely. Avoid this by going for a long ride at least once a week. 

You can also take the battery out and hook it up to a charger. Trickle chargers are commonly used for motorcycle batteries, especially during the winter when bikes aren’t taken out as often and batteries discharge quicker. 

Whenever you remove the battery to charge it, take this time to wipe away any dust and grime buildup and check the terminals for any signs of corrosion. Also, during this time, keep the battery stored somewhere away from extreme heat or cold. 

What does cold cranking amps (CCA) signify?

CCA is a term used to indicate the power a starting battery has in order to start an engine. In other words, the CCA refers to the number of amps a battery can deliver in the first few seconds to maintain enough power to start the engine when it’s cold. Most batteries have a starting temperature of 32 degrees Fahrenheit, but if you ride in colder weather conditions, look for a battery with a higher CCA rating. 

What are amp hours?

Amp hours refer to the amount of electricity a battery can discharge over a specific amount of time. Usually, you’ll find the available amp hours listed next to the CCA. Having all of this information will help you determine if the battery has enough power for your particular bike and riding goals. 

If you need a replacement battery for your motorcycle, head to Victory Battery Co. in Covington, KY. This family-owned battery store carries a variety of automotive batteries to match any motorcycle, boat, car, truck, or lawnmower. They also offer battery testing and installation services and will rebuild alternators and starters. To learn more about their services and products, call them today at (859) 581-0343 and visit their website.