As the temperatures begin to rise, motorcyclists are preparing to get back on the road. Just as you maintain a car or truck regularly, your motorcycle requires the same type of attention. By taking the appropriate measures to care for its battery, you won’t have to worry about the need for frequent replacements or the risk of premature failure. As you prepare your bike for spring, here are three battery maintenance tips to keep in mind.

How to Maintain Your Motorcycle’s Battery

1. Charge It Regularly

Make it a habit to charge the battery regularly—both during the on- and off-seasons. When you ride your motorcycle regularly, you can trust that the alternator’s regulator will charge it when you’re in motion. It’s a good idea to keep a battery testing device on hand so that you can confirm that it’s fully charged before you get out on the road. However, if you’re putting the bike away for a few months, make sure to use a tender to maintain its charge without overloading the battery.

2. Inspect It Closely

Just as you inspect your bike’s exterior, you should make it a point to inspect the battery regularly. First, look at the terminals for visible corrosion, and use a wire brush to remove any accumulated rust. Then, check the electrolyte levels to determine if you need to replenish the supply. After you remove the plastic cover, remove any lingering dirt, and look inside the cells. If you can see the plates, or if the levels appear unequal, then you need to add distilled water.

3. Maintain the Temperature

It’s normal for the battery to lose water vapor over time, but under the right conditions, this natural occurrence can happen too quickly. When you park a bike with a hot engine in a warm space, that excessive heat can cause the fuel to convert to vapor. You need to do whatever you can to avoid dramatic temperature changes that will help prevent this from happening too quickly. You might consider storing your bike in a temperature-regulated garage when it’s not in use.
 

Are you looking for reliable replacement batteries for your motorcycle? If so, turn to Victory Battery Co in Covington, KY. Proudly serving area riders since 1957, this family-owned and -operated company offers a wide range of batteries from many of the world’s leading manufacturers. In addition to products for your bike, they also carry batteries for wheelchairs, scooters, and toys. Visit this battery store online for product information, or call (859) 581-0343 today to schedule an appointment.