The motorcycle batteries are very important in ensuring that your bike runs well by running everything from the motor starter to lights and electronics. These batteries, however, are exceedingly susceptible to the mercy of the weather. Understand how hot and cold temperatures each may affect battery performance:. This article continues below with a closer look at these effects, covers the science involved in how batteries work, and offers detailed methods for the year-round protection of your motorcycle battery.
Understanding Motorcycle Batteries
Lead-Acid Batteries
The most common type, their primary components are lead plates submerged in a sulfuric acid electrolyte. They are reliable and inexpensive, but have low tolerance to temperature changes.
Lithium-Ion Batteries
The newer ones are much lighter and have a higher energy density. They work better in extremely hot or cold temperatures but may similarly get affected by extreme heat or cold.
Each type of battery has a range of temperatures within which it works best. Being able to understand these kinds of ranges helps you be able to take better care of your battery.
Effects of Extreme Heat on Motorcycle Batteries
Accelerated Chemical Reactions
Overcharging
Higher temperatures make the battery overcharge easier and cause gassing-a process in which hydrogen and oxygen gasses are liberated-which may lead to the failure of the battery.
Reduced Capacity
The aging of the battery through heat reduces the capacity of the battery; this, in turn, diminishes the operating range and performance of the car.
Fluid Evaporation
Sulfation
In case the quantity of the electrolyte is too low, then lead sulfate crystals can start accumulating on the plates. This will affect the ability of the battery to hold the charge.
Dry Cell
In severe cases, the cell will be dry, and the only alternative is to throw it away and replace it with a new one.
Corrosion
Poor Electrical Connection
The corroded terminals act as a hindrance to electrical flow, hence poor motorcycle start-up.
Increased Maintenance
Cleaning corroded terminals becomes a routine in the maintenance activities.
Heat Protection
Park in the Shade
Wherever possible, park your motorcycle in shaded areas, protecting it from direct sunlight. Using a motorcycle cover also goes a long way.
Use a Heat Shield
Installation of a heat-reflective cover or heat shield on your battery will prevent excessive engine heat, especially on long rides.
Routine Care
Check the fluid levels and terminal corrosion of the battery periodically. When low, top off the electrolyte level with distilled water, and clean the terminals with a mixture of water and baking soda to neutralize the acid.
Battery Tender
If the bike is not going to be used for a very long period of time, a battery tender or maintainer should be used. It will maintain battery charge without charging excessively. This is especially helpful when the riding season is hot and one is riding less.
Effects of Extreme Cold on Motorcycle Batteries
Cold Cranking Power Reduction
Starting Problems
The battery might have difficulty cranking the motorcycle properly, especially as the engine oil may become viscous due to the cold.
Higher Stress
It overstressed the starter motor, hence contributing to the wear and tear of both battery and starter prematurely .
Increased Internal Resistance
Less Output
The battery’s capacity for providing current decreases, hence being less effective during cold conditions.
Higher Energy Demand
Cold weather requires more energy to start the motorcycle; hence, it strains the battery further.
Risk of Freezing
Permanent Damage
It may expand when frozen electrolyte expands and crack the outer casing of the battery, rendering it worthless.
Complete Failure
A frozen battery may never recover even after warming up, and one may need to replace it.
Protective Measures Against Cold
Insulation
Insulate the battery from cold air with insulation materials or covers on batteries. Also, try using thermal wraps or battery blankets.
Regular Charging
Make it a habit to recharge your battery from time to time during winter if the motorcycle is used less often. A smart charger will automatically switch between charge rates depending on the needs of the battery.
Store Indoors
If possible, store your motorcycle in a heated garage or take out the battery and store it in a controlled environment to avoid freezing. You can use a battery heater if you must leave it outside.
Battery Maintenance
Regularly check the voltage of the battery and make sure it is always well above the critical threshold of deep discharging, generally around 12.4 volts, by using a multimeter:.
Best Practices of Year-Round Battery Care
Regular Checks
Check your battery periodically for wear and tear, corrosion, or any leaks that may take place. These periodic checks will keep you ahead in finding potential issues before they become grave problems.
Adequate Storage
Whenever you are going to keep your motorcycle for more than a week, remove the battery and have it stay at a temperature-controlled place. But do not forget to keep it on charge, as batteries can self-discharge with time.
Use Quality Products
Get a good-quality battery that works well for your motorcycle needs. For whatever lead-acid or lithium-ion preference you might go with, the model should actually be according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Read Up
Understand the technology of your battery and its best practices to continue to keep those batteries running longer. Knowing how a battery works may also empower you to better take care of it.
Key Takeaway
Extreme heat and cold weather, in particular, can really take a toll on the performance and life of your motorcycle battery. Understanding these effects will help the motorcycle owners to go for protective measures for their batteries. Examples of good practices are regular maintenance, proper storage, and the use of battery tenders or maintainers that help extend the life of your motorcycle battery for continued best performance throughout the year.
