6 Simple Tips to Charge a Motorcycle Battery

If riding a motorcycle, you must use different types of batteries, like lead-acid and lithium batteries. Charging your lithium batteries regularly is the best way to enhance the battery life. But it would be best not to overcharge them as it can harm their longevity and lead to explosion or fire hazards in extreme cases.

In addition, motorcycle batteries must be charged systematically. Any wrong or haphazard way to charge the battery may be counterproductive.

According to Mordor Intelligence, the lithium-ion battery market revenue in the United States was valued at USD 11.2 billion in 2023. It is expected to reach USD 35 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 25.49% during the forecast period (2023-2028). The market is being driven by the increasing adoption of electric vehicles and stringent regulations implemented by the government towards greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Here are six key points that you should keep in mind while getting your motorcycle battery charged:

Select the Exact Battery Charger

This is very important as all or every type of charger may not be suitable to charge every type of battery. Though most battery types can be charged using a trickle, float, and intelligent charger, all motorbike batteries may not get charged using them.

For example, the lithium battery may require a special charger meant exclusively for it. The best way is to know the charger specification from the guide or manual given to you by the battery manufacturer.

Time Duration for Charging

Your battery must not be overcharged. The factor of how much electrical energy a particular battery needs is predetermined by its maker. The battery manual specifies the limit of complete charging.

In some cases, depending upon the size of the battery, it may take four hours for full charging, whereas other batteries may take longer. Charging time may depend upon the age of the battery.

Allow Your Battery to Air Out

If you want your battery to perform well, you must allow at least 30 minutes to let it sit after filling it. Airing out is essential as your battery may get some air bubbles in the acid while being filled. Such bubbles, unless aired out, may cause trouble to your battery. Sealing the air bubbles or airing out can help your battery perform better.

Control Charging Temperature

Controlled charging is essential as most Li-Ion batteries use graphite-type material in one electrode. A high temperature may enhance the exfoliation of the graphite sheets. It can cause a capacity loss in your battery. If you control the charging rate, you may enhance the functional life of your motorcycle battery.

Follow the Right Loading Process

The battery manufacturer’s manual always specifies the proper loading process. For example, most manufacturers suggest not charging it after you complete your ride. The best option is to allow the battery to take a little rest. It helps the charging cells switch from discharged to charged states. It allows the battery to receive better charging.

Always Follow the Guidelines

The construction types of batteries always differ. You must know the construction type and charge it according to the battery manufacturer’s manual guidelines. Besides, don’t forget that all types of motorcycle batteries don’t require charging. These batteries come with a specified life span.

Thus, before you go out to buy the best lithium motorcycle batteries, make sure you keep the following factors in mind. These simple tips can help you grab the best lithium batteries and prolong their life.

Responsibility of a Motorcycle Rider

If you are a motorcycle rider, you must periodically check the health of your battery. This not only prolongs the healthy life of the battery but also protects the engine and other parts of the vehicle. For this, you must always rely on a battery tester.

A battery tester can show the exact condition of the battery in a very short time. The battery tester is essential as it can indicate the need for charging. You should know that a battery remains in good health if you regularly ride your motorcycle. In such a case, your battery can last for an extended period. On the other hand, if you are using your motorbike for a limited period or keeping it inactive in your garage for weeks together, your battery may run down.

For the safety of your battery, always keep the following points in mind

You must stop charging if your battery turns hot. This can happen when your charging method is wrong, or your battery is damaged. Charging heated batteries can result in an explosion.
In case your battery swells, stop charging immediately. This indicates that your battery may be damaged or your modus operandi of charging is wrong. It will be pretty risky to charge the battery any further.
Sometimes, your battery may give off smoke. Stop charging immediately, as it is precarious to charge a smoking battery. It may explode.

Conclusion

Your motorcycle battery should never be overcharged. Charging the battery at 10% of its actual rated capacity would be ideal. Motorcycle batteries have an in-built absorption rate, and the microprocessor-controlled chargers work according to this rate to ensure the charging is up to the optimum limit. You can avoid risks if you systematically charge your battery after removing it from your motorcycle.

This is due to the reason that the battery charging may generate or emit highly flammable hydrogen gas. If you overcharge it, it may produce hydrogen sulfide, which is dangerous to your health. Hence, you must follow the required scientific path to charge your motorcycle battery.

Last but not least, when replacing your motorcycle lithium battery, always choose the original and branded battery. You can’t install any lithium battery even if it can be easily installed on your motorcycle. Battery usage is always sensitive, as even slight negligence or mistake can lead to hazards. So, always take full precautions when you are using any battery.