 |
||
|
|
MOTO TECH TIPS |
|
|
|
||
|
|
Manufacturer Links |
|
|
|
||
|
|
|
|
|
|
||
|
|
||
|
|
Motorcycle Batteries. |
|
|
|
||
The 12v motorcycle battery exists as an essential part of the modern motorcycle electrical system, now more than ever before. By 1955 the automotive industry (in order to accommodate greater current demands) had converted their electrical systems to 12v. Motorcycle battery design soon followed suit With greater current and storage capacities the new 12v motorcycle battery coupled with the use of an alternator would provide adequate reliable power to run larger and brighter lights, louder horns and power an electric starter. Of course it didn't end there.
The advent and evolution of the 12v motorcycle battery has opened the doors for more technologies to be implemented. The use of fuel injection and electronic engine management systems on today's motorcycle would not be possible without the 12v system. Modern luxuries such as motorcycle radios and CD players, helmet communications, and GPS systems would never have been possible, nor would we have heated seats, grips or electric vests. Also, the electrical components involved with ABS systems rely heavily on the electrical system of the 12v motorcycle.
Battery options for motorcycles today are below.
AGM, or absorbed glass mat battery. This is considered to be the most advanced 12v motorcycle battery. The AGM battery is constructed with fiberglass mats between the charged plates. The fiberglass keeps the electrolyte in suspension next to the plates and results in a more efficient rate of charge. These also store very well when maintained with the proper battery charger.
Gel battery. The gel motorcycle battery works like the AGM battery because the electrolyte is held in suspension next to the plates. Instead of using fiberglass, silica is added to thicken the mixture, hence the term gel. Gel batteries are a good option over the conventional lead-acid batteries, they store well and are less likely to sulfate and breakdown.
Lead-acid battery. This is the conventional battery also known as a wet-cell battery. The lead-acid battery uses liquid electrolyte to react with the plates. While the lead-acid battery has been used successfully for many, many years it is more susceptible to sulfation and deterioration. Lead-acid batteries are still widely available in both serviceable and maintenance free types.
No matter which type of 12v motorcycle battery you chose to use, it will need to be properly maintained to optimize its performance and life-span. The first and most important step to performing battery maintenance is to have the correct motorcycle battery charger.
| Copyright 2006-2009 Moto Tech Tips / mototechtips.com |
|
|