Batteries are one of the integral parts of a motorcycle, and using a new battery gives you the peace of mind that your bike will always start up when you want to ride it. Batteries die after a while. Irrespective of how well you look after the battery by properly charging it, keeping it in a cool place, etc.
The battery will eventually wear out and need replacement and the best time to get it replaced is when you first suspect that it is losing a bit of its power and performance.
Now that we’ve gone over the importance of changing your motorcycle battery, let’s take a closer look to know when you’re supposed to do it. As with most machines, it will show signs when the time is near.
Here’s what you need to know:
Built-up Sulphation
A buildup of sulfation is one of the first signs that it’s time to replace the battery. Sulfation is when lead sulphate forms on the negative electrode or the lead plates in the battery’s lead-acid cell, making it increasingly thick and eventually preventing another charge. This will make the battery completely useless.
As the sulfation builds up, the battery will be able to hold less power and charge more slowly. If that’s not bad enough, the battery will be unable to store a charge at all. You’ll usually start seeing this as an inability to jump-start the bike—even if the battery is fully charged.
Motorcycle Won’t Ignite
One of the most common reasons a motorcycle refuses to ignite is a faulty battery. If your battery is old, it may have lost some of its juice. However, if you’re sure that it’s relatively new, it could be a couple of other things wrong.
A bad spark plug is one of the most common reasons a bike won’t ignite. If you’re sure that this isn’t the case, you may need to replace your battery. Another reason why your bike won’t ignite is that your petcock isn’t on.
If you’ve been riding a lot, then you may find that your motorcycle’s battery won’t take charge. If this is the case, you need to replace your battery’s lead-acid cells—preferably, a maintenance-free unit. Your battery should last at least three years, but you should replace it every two years.
Deformed Battery
Another telltale sign of a battery needing replacement can be found in the battery’s casing. If you notice that the casing is deformed, you should replace the battery. A deformed battery can lead to problems when trying to install it. Your motorcycle may also experience electrical problems like lights flickering or not working. If the battery is deformed or leaking, it’s best to get a replacement.
Alternating Multi-meter Reading
The alternator will be producing a certain amount of power. The alternator’s job is to ensure that your battery is constantly replenished with power. It works by regularly taking some power from the battery and feeding it back into the system. The alternator is a very important component in the electrical system of a motorcycle.
Suppose the alternator is not producing the right amount of electricity, or the system cannot keep up with the demands of the electrical components that it powers. A reading of the alternator output with a multi-meter will reveal an alternating current instead of steady reading. That means that something is going wrong with the alternator.
The Bottom Line
As you can see, there are several warning signs that your motorcycle battery is due for a replacement. Some of these signs will appear to you, while others may only show themselves after scrutiny.
If you think that your bike’s battery is losing power, it is best to replace it. And if you want to ensure that your bike can start up every time and power your battery, you should leave it for motorcycle maintenance professionals.
Here at AAA FNQ Battery Wholesalers, we stock a wide range of automotive batteries—looking to find reliable batteries in Townsville? You’re in the right place! Click the link on our homepage and use the finder to locate your vehicle and the battery required. Contact us today to learn more and get started!