Motorcycle Batteries

Batteries - click here to view our stock

As keen bikers, we understand that batteries are an integral part of the life of any motorcycle. It is important therefore to be armed with the maximum amount of information on batteries, and our expertise in that area can help massively.

This handy guide can help you through the questions you may have on different types of batteries, together with providing a small element of battery maintenance information in general!

All our batteries are supplied either fully sealed or with acid, all batteries must be charged before use – and this is of utmost importance as it is vital to ensure optimum performance and maximum battery life!

Fully Sealed Batteries

Sealed batteries are sometimes referred to as "maintenance free" and this is the attraction to some bikers. This luxury may come at a price however, and sealed batteries are on the whole more expensive. The batteries do not need the constant maintenance of more conventional types.

As they are fully sealed, there is no threat of the acid level dropping and the electrolyte level in the sealed battery is designed to be above the plates, in order that the electrolyte liquid keeps the plates covered at all times. Sealed batteries are also not susceptible to leaks and are therefore often fitted in applications where the battery is housed on its side.

An ideal choice if you are an occasional rider, without the know-how or perhaps the inclination to spend time maintaining your battery.

Acid Batteries

Before they can be used these batteries have a need for electrolyte. Electrolyte is a sulphuric acid, which explains the name! You will need to wear gloves when handling the acid, and there are instructions included for safe filling.

You must only use dilute sulphuric acid for conventional lead-acid batteries, and only at the time of first commission. Following this first application, the battery should be topped up with distilled water.

Dry Filled Batteries

As the name would suggest, these batteries are dispatched dry (without acid) and prior to charging you must fill these with the acid supplied.

Gel Filled Batteries

These batteries come with an acid pack but are easier and less messy to fill than traditional lead acid type batteries. These are also maintenance free and after initial filling they require no further action other than the occasional charge. These are again a good option if your battery is hard to access.

Motorcycle Battery Activation

Dry Filled Batteries

Fill battery with supplied acid to upper fill level, leave to settle for ten minutes, check acid levels and replace yellow caps when battery has been charged. Ensure acid level is at the upper fill mark before and after charging.

Gel Filled Batteries

Remove foil seal from the battery and the plastic cap from the acid cartridge. Press the cartridge on to the top of the battery piercing the seals and allow it to drain completely before removing it and pressing the plastic sealing strip firmly on to the top of the battery. The acid will then change to gel over a few hours.

Sealed Batteries

These batteries come with no acid and are fully sealed they require no action before charging. These batteries should not be opened for any reason.

Battery Charging

New batteries should be charged on a trickle charger for motorcycle batteries (NOT A CAR CHARGER) the charge rate should be at around 10% of the batteries output for example a 14 amp hour battery should be charged at 1.4amps per hour for around six hours for the initial charge.

If you are unsure of what battery you need or how to activate your battery please contact our friendly staff for helpful advice on 01706 344899.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Bitz for Bikes

Motorcycle Batteries