Lithium Motorcycle Batteries: Myths and Realities - UPDATED (2023)

Lighter and stronger, they almost reached superhero status

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Let's take a moment to learn about lead-acid batteries. The first rechargeable battery was invented in 1859 and honed to an extremely high level of compliance. In fact, it's so ubiquitous that nearly every gasoline-powered car on the planet uses it to power its engines. Lead-acid batteries are cheap to manufacture (and recycle), flexible and fairly reliable. They are just the definition of known quantities. Unless you own a high-end supersport bike, or one of a select group of off-road bikes, chances are your bike came with a lead-acid battery from the factory. Lithium-based batteries are relatively new on the market and, like many new technologies, have seen some growth spurts. Lithium batteries, however, are developing fairly rapidly and are now on the brink of a major challenge to lead-acid supremacy. Still, many drivers wonder why we screw up a good thing?

As good as lead-acid batteries are, they also have some significant drawbacks. First, they are heavy. Second, they contain high amounts of lead, which is harmful to the environment if not recycled, and the acid that interacts with the lead as it leaches from the battery case is corrosive. Third, they have a limited number of discharge/charge cycles compared to lithium batteries. After all, their self-discharge rate can be as low as 1% per day when stored at high temperatures. Lithium batteries solve all these problems.

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Remember the bad days of having to maintain lead-acid batteries with distilled water? Well, advances in sealed batteries have basically eliminated that. It now appears that lithium batteries may be the end of lead-acid batteries themselves.

(Video) The SHOCKING Facts About Lithium | Lithium Batteries 101 - Motorcycle, ATV & UTV

To learn more about lithium batteries, their relationship to lead-acid batteries, and their future, we interviewed representatives of the two largest lithium battery manufacturers in the United States.criticize, we spoke to TK's Phuc Lam to get information on how Shorai handles lithium batteries during its 11-year production process. We also interviewed Jason Levitt, President and FounderFull Spectrum Performance, whose company is also a lithium battery manufacturer with a history of more than ten years.

Leavitt gives us a lot of background on lithium batteries, but his main argument is that the weight issue is overblown. Yes, they are easier. He thinks we should expect more from the voltage they deliver: "A higher open circuit voltage means the bike will go faster. You'll have a higher open circuit voltage. So that means the spark that drives a lithium battery is stronger than a lead-acid battery. More stable and hotter."

Lam also emphasized that the main benefit of lithium batteries is not weight, saying that "life is the main benefit of lithium batteries". In layman's terms, it is the number of times the battery can be discharged and charged. Lam explained that lithium batteries can be cycled up to 5,000 times before performance starts to degrade, while lead-acid batteries can only be cycled 1,000 times. This is a key distinction.

Myths About Lithium Batteries

We've all heard stories of lithium batteries catching fire. While we certainly don't want this to happen to our bikes, most of the time this fear is unfounded. The fires we usually read about happen to lithium-ion batteries, the type of battery that powers small electronic devices like smartphones and laptops. In motorcycle applications, the batteries are made from a lithium-iron-phosphate mixture, which offers slightly lower power density and significantly improved chemical stability compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries.

Additionally, most powersport lithium battery failures occur with batteries that do not have a battery management system (BMS). The electronics required to balance the lithium battery discharge/charge load are so advanced that the BMS will shut down the battery in the event of an overcharge condition that could lead to overheating and/or fire.

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There is a lot more going on in a lithium battery enclosure than a traditional lead-acid battery. This is actually the performance of lithium batteries, it is almost impossible to overcharge or undercharge.

We have also heard many times that lithium batteries are not as durable as lead-acid batteries. This myth needs to be addressed in a number of ways. First of all, in the case of deep discharge, lithium batteries may be discharged to an irrecoverable level. However, the BMS now prevents this from happening by disconnecting the battery before power consumption reaches a level that would damage the battery. Unfortunately, not all PowerSport lithium batteries have a BMS. If you're buying a lithium battery at the very bottom of the price range, you probably won't get this level of protection. The absence of a BMS is not the only opportunity for low-cost Li-ion battery manufacturers to reduce costs.

For a while, the lithium battery market in the e-sports industry was like the wild west, with unscrupulous low-end manufacturers snatching lithium batteries rejected by brand manufacturers at extremely low prices. It also allows them to make money for consumers with cheap battery prices. Not surprisingly, these batteries are more prone to failure than premium batteries, tarnishing the reputation of lithium batteries, and many wrongly believe that they are not suitable for motorsport use. If you're absolutely adamant about buying a super cheap lithium battery, do your research before spending any money. If you don't have a BMS, just run. Batteries can be a hazard to your motorcycle and your wallet. Replacing the battery on short notice will be the least of your worries.

(Video) Lithium Motorcycle Battery vs. Lead Acid Battery | MC Garage

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If you can see through the often opaque casing of a lithium battery, you'll immediately notice how it differs from older lead-acid batteries -- especially unsealed lead-acid batteries.

Another myth about lithium batteries is that they are less resistant to parasitic discharges, such as B. Alarm systems. Again, this was before lithium BMS became commonplace. More often than not, a siren or other accessory will completely drain the battery without the owner noticing for a while. With a lithium battery, this extended straight line becomes a paperweight. High-quality lead-acid batterypossibleHave recovered from this type of abuse many times. However, not all lead-acid batteries can survive this kind of abuse even once.

In terms of life, the conservative discharge/charge cycle capacity of lithium batteries is two to four times that of lead-acid batteries. So if a lead-acid battery can withstand about 500 deep discharge cycles (or 80% deep discharge cycles), a lithium battery can perform the same task over 2,000 times, negating most of the upfront price of a lithium battery.

Lithium batteries have also been accused of being unsuitable for use in sub-zero temperatures. It is true that cold affects both lead and lithium batteries. Lam said Shorai batteries, like all lithium batteries, are the opposite of lead-acid batteries. With a conventional battery, you have to start the bike immediately before the voltage drops. For lithium batteries, the internal resistance is higher when the battery is extremely cold. So you have to build up the full power of the battery start.

The trick to starting a bike with a lithium battery is to warm up the battery first. The easiest way is to load it for a few minutes. Turn on a power source, such as a headlamp or an electric vest, and the battery itself heats up as it supplies power, and the available charge increases as the battery heats up. While some lithium battery manufacturers say you should leave the engine running anyway - as heavy loads will heat up the battery as quickly as possible - we don't recommend doing so unless you want to change gears in the starter motor.

The truth about lithium batteries

As we said at the beginning of this article, the most common benefit most riders have heard of lithium motorcycle batteries is that they weigh significantly less than lead-acid batteries. this is true. Weight reductions of around 70% are common, and there are lighter options for those looking to maximize weight savings, such as runners. While this may not be a big deal for Big Twin owners, sportbike enthusiasts often spend a lot of time and money reducing the weight of their bikes. Switching to lithium batteries may be the easiest way to lose five pounds. This is certainly better than dieting.

Perhaps the most important factor of lithium motorcycle batteries is that they have a much higher power density than lead-acid batteries. In short, this means they provide more cranking current per unit weight. So, if you buy a quality aftermarket replacement for your OEM battery, you'll likely get more amp-hours at a similar amperage to the original battery -- all with the aforementioned weight savings.

In addition, the operating voltage of lithium batteries is higher than that of lead-acid batteries. The lithium battery produces 13.2 volts, which provides better performance for all voltage-dependent systems on the bike, from the starter coil to the coils and injectors. Lithium batteries offer better voltage stability and with a slightly higher voltage, you get a bike that is easier to tune and has more horsepower.

(Video) Top 5 motorcycle battery myths busted!

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Due to the high operating voltage of lithium batteries, different chargers are required.

Another advantage of lithium batteries is that, unlike lead-acid batteries, they can provide a full charge until fully discharged. And by full power we mean over 13 volts. So Lithium will provide more than 13 volts until the very last moment. We all know the sound of tired, weak lead-acid batteries starting more and more slowly as they approach the end of charge. At this point you're running 9 or 10 volts, and on a modern bike the ECU, injectors, fuel pump, and spark plugs need at least 12 volts, which means they're not running at full power either. This problem most often occurs after a lead-acid battery has not been charged for a long time. Lithium batteries tolerate long-term storage much better, depleting only about 1% in about 45 days, regardless of temperature. (Keep in mind that lead-acid batteries can lose up to 1% per day in hot weather.)

Can you safely bypass lithium batteries? It depends on whether the battery has a BMS or not. Do not connect to a moving vehicle. Instead connect it to a different battery. Race teams do this by using a battery boost system to start the bike, which allows them to use the bike's tiny battery while the engine is running. When the lithium battery is used to start the auxiliary engine, be sure to connect the auxiliary battery in parallel. Connecting them in series creates 24 volts and the BMS activates its protection. Even in cold weather, you should follow the same starting procedure before pressing the button on the starter. Connect the auxiliary battery to wake up the motorcycle lithium battery in a few minutes.

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Checking the correctness of the charging system is as easy as checking the battery voltage. The battery is in good condition. To check the charging system, simply start the engine and hold it at 2000 rpm and measure the battery voltage.

(Video) Don't Buy a Lithium Motorcycle Battery Before You Watch This Video!!!

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Before replacing a dead lead-acid battery, you should check the condition of your bike's charging system -- especially with older bikes. There may be a problem causing the previous battery to fail. A healthy motorcycle charging system provides about 14 volts at 2000 rpm, while lithium batteries require 13 to 14 volts to charge. If your bike is producing less power due to a fatigued charging system, the lithium battery won't be able to charge and will eventually lose power, leaving you dead and dry. (This problem with the charging system fuels the myth that lithium batteries don't last as well as lead-acid batteries.)

Since many battery chargers, including smart chargers, are designed for 12.8 volt lead-acid batteries, they will not charge most lithium batteries. Also, a smart charger is expected to connect to six 2-volt batteries, but lithium batteries typically have four 3.3-volt batteries. So they don't really speak the same electronic language. Batteries with special circuitry can operate at this lower voltage. However, this is not an optimal setup. So it's a good idea to get a smart lithium battery charger. The good news is that they are made by many well-known brands, such as Shorai. In reality, however, you may not need a charger at all – even if you store your bike over the winter holidays – due to the stability of lithium batteries. Instead, just disconnect the battery's negative cable, and thanks to lithium's long life, when you plug it back in in the spring, it'll be ready to go.

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For now, the installation of OEM lithium batteries is mostly reserved for high-performance models such as the Ducati Panigale V4 R.

You might wonder why OEMs don't use lithium batteries on every motorcycle, which are so much better. The reason is simple, lead-acid batteries are a commodity and bike designers would rather spend their budgets elsewhere. Remember when traction control was a rarity? As with all relatively new technologies, we'll see more and more OEM devices as economies of scale kick in. Lithium batteries are currently installed on Hyundai Approved motorcycles and many top off-road motorcycles such as the Ducati Panigale V4 R and Honda CRF450R. However, if the bike is an economy model and the suspension or brakes are cheap, you may not see lithium batteries anytime soon.

Lithium Motorcycle Batteries: Myths and Realities - UPDATED (20)

Lithium batteries are also used in bikes where space is limited, such as the Honda CRF450R.

While lithium is overrated for its lightness, it's still a plus when you need to replace your OEM battery. Instead, consider lithium batteries to be inherently better. With a BMS it is almost impossible to kill, the BMS circuit prevents this from happening. So park your bike for a month or more (shame on you by the way) and as soon as you push the starter it will go.

(Video) Motorcycle Lithium-Ion vs Lead-Acid Battery Comparison, Review, & Guide

So if your bike battery dies, you'll have to decide if it's worth paying more for the increased reliability, higher cranking current, greater resistance to self-discharge, and lower weight. what do you want to do?

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FAQs

Is the lithium-ion battery worth it for a motorcycle? ›

We've covered the different types of batteries, how to replace them, and how to take care of them when you're not riding. But often I get the question, are lithium-based batteries worth their higher cost? The short answer is yes. They are lighter, have a slower discharge rate, and perform better in cold temperatures.

What is one of the main problems with lithium-ion batteries? ›

The primary hazard in a lithium-ion battery is the electrolyte, which at its core, is flammable. As the battery temperature rises to above ~80°C, the exothermic reaction rate inside the battery increases.

What are the biggest problems with lithium-ion batteries? ›

However, lithium-ion batteries are extremely sensitive to high temperatures and inherently flammable. These battery packs tend to degrade much faster than they normally would, due to heat. If a lithium-ion battery pack fails, it will burst into flames and can cause widespread damage.

What are the negative effects of lithium batteries? ›

Lithium batteries contain potentially toxic nickel, copper, and lead materials. When disposed of improperly, used batteries can lead to an environmental disaster, and if stored uncontrolled, they become explosive.

What is the average life of a lithium motorcycle battery? ›

The minimum lifespan most manufacturers expect from lithium-ion batteries is around 5 years or at least 2,000 charging cycles. But, if well cared for and used in proper conditions, lithium-ion batteries can last as long as 3,000 cycles.

Can you jump start a lithium motorcycle battery? ›

Faulty batteries are the number one cause of vehicle breakdowns in the UK* but jump-starting a motorcycle with a flat lithium battery can do more harm than good and should not be attempted under any circumstances. That's the stark warning from OptiMate, the battery-saving experts.

Can you trickle charge a lithium motorcycle battery? ›

Lithium batteries don't support a trickle-charge in the way a lead-acid battery does. We recommend to make periodically a 30 minutes charge (every 2 months). Never charge the battery with a higher current than 2C (2C corresponds to 2 x the battery capacity).

What are 3 negative features of lithium-ion batteries? ›

Drawbacks or disadvantages of Lithium Ion Battery

It lasts only two to three years after manufacturer. ➨It is sensitive to high temperatures. ➨If the battery is completely discharged, it can no longer be recharged again. ➨It is relatively expensive.

Can you put a lithium battery in any motorcycle? ›

First, all motorcycles built since 1980 are capable of running a lithium battery, providing they are in *good working condition*. More specifically, the charging system on your bike *must charge between 13.4v and 14.6v*. Every motorcycle in good working order should meet this requirement.

Do lithium batteries get worse over time? ›

As the cycle time gets longer, self-discharge comes into play and CE drops (gets worse). Electrolyte oxidation at the cathode, in part, causes this self-discharge. Li-ion loses about 2 percent per month at 0ºC (32ºF) with a state-of-charge of 50 percent and up to 35 percent at 60ºC (140ºF) when fully charged.

What is the life expectancy of a lithium-ion battery? ›

According to Battery University, the everyday lithium ion battery should last between 300 and 500 charge/discharge cycles. If you charge a cellphone once a day, for example, the battery would last for more than a year in ideal conditions.

Will there be a better battery than lithium-ion? ›

An ambient temperature sodium-sulfur battery, even if less energy dense, would drastically reduce the price and replace lithium-ion technology in cost-efficient applications as it would be more recyclable and less toxic.

What destroys a lithium-ion battery? ›

As batteries that are sensitive to extreme heat, Li-ion cells can react dangerously when exposed to the radiant heat of a workplace fire. With the safe temperature range for lithium-ion batteries falling somewhere between 5 and 20°C, the heat of a fire can cause catastrophic damage if it penetrates your battery store.

Why does lithium have a bad reputation? ›

The reputation that lithium got for being "toxic," "mind numbing," and so forth, certainly those things have an element of truth to them. But they come from earlier studies where people were kept at a much higher doses and blood levels of lithium.

What are the 3 main symptoms of lithium toxicity? ›

In mild lithium toxicity, symptoms include weakness, worsening tremor, mild ataxia, poor concentration and diarrhea. With worsening toxicity, vomiting, the development of a gross tremor, slurred speech, confusion and lethargy emerge (Bauer and Gitlin 2016).

What happens to lithium batteries at end of life? ›

If the battery cannot be used for alternative storage purposes, the valuable materials are separated out, such as cobalt, lithium salts, stainless steel, copper, aluminum, and plastic. Currently, only about half of the materials in an EV battery pack are recycled, but manufacturers are looking to improve on this.

Are lithium motorcycle batteries good in the cold? ›

Bottom line- lithium motorcycle batteries work great in cold weather, provided you give them the proper wake up sequence. If you are looking for a battery that will work in freezing temps without having to deal with waiting a minute or two, lithium may not be for you.

Which motorcycle battery lasts the longest? ›

What is the longest-lasting motorcycle battery? If you are looking for a long-lasting motorcycle battery, consider a lithium-ion battery like the Shorai LFX36L3-BS12. This battery provides 36.0 amp hours and can be recharged more often than a lead-acid battery while maintaining its power.

Can a lithium battery last 20 years? ›

These batteries are constructed in two different ways: spirally wound batteries, which offer a maximum service life of approximately 10 years; and bobbin-type cells, which are the only lithium batteries that can deliver 25+ years of service life.

Can you crank off a lithium battery? ›

If you are looking to use a lithium battery as a cranking battery in your car, truck, RV or boat then the answer is a resounding no.

Can a dead lithium-ion motorcycle battery be restored? ›

Toss the battery, it cannot be revived if the voltage has dropped below 2.0v per cell, (8v with your battery). If you want to replace it with another, buy a battery with a bms (battery management system). The bms will disconnect the battery if voltage is too high or too low to save it from the scrap heap.

How do you winterize a lithium motorcycle battery? ›

Lithium-Ion batteries are perfect for winter storage because they have virtually zero self-discharge rate. All you need to do is disconnect the negative battery terminal until riding season rolls back around.

Can I charge lithium battery off alternator? ›

Alternator charging is a common method to recharge lithium batteries. Charging from your alternator is a great option, however, you will need some extra equipment, like a battery isolation manager (BIM). A well-known industry tool, this component is programmed specifically to run with our batteries.

How do I keep my lithium-ion battery healthy? ›

Charge or discharge the battery to approximately 50% of capacity before storage. Charge the battery to approximately 50% of capacity at least once every six months. Remove the battery and store it separately from the product. Store the battery at temperatures between 5 °C and 20 °C (41 °F and 68 °F).

How do you extinguish a lithium battery fire? ›

To put out large lithium-ion battery fires, use a foam extinguisher containing CO2, powder graphite, ABC dry chemical, or sodium carbonate. In battery pack fires, each cell may burn on a different timeline. Place the battery pack in a protected outdoor space to allow it to completely burn out.

How do you store a lithium ion motorcycle battery? ›

With cold weather here, caring for your lithium ion battery is critical for long cycle life and optimal performance.
  1. Do not store your bike in temperatures below -17C (0F) or above 27C (80F). ...
  2. Do NOT charge the battery if it is below 0C (32F) or above 45C (113F).
Feb 14, 2012

How do you store a lithium motorcycle battery? ›

Batteries should be stored in a well-ventilated, dry area kept between 40 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They should be stored away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and water. Batteries should be stacked so that they're stable and won't be bumped, knocked over or otherwise damaged.

Do Harleys use lithium-ion batteries? ›

Lithium batteries aren't just for racers. They are much lighter, sure, but they also have a higher cranking capability than the standard Harley Davidson lead-acid battery, meaning your Harley will start easier and faster with one.

Should I charge my lithium battery after every use? ›

Unlike other types of batteries that need to be recharged throughout their storage time, lithium batteries do better at 40%-50% DOD (depth of discharge). Pro-Tip: After every 30 charges, allow your lithium based battery to completely discharge before recharging. This helps to avoid a condition called digital memory.

What is the 40 80 rule for batteries? ›

The 40-80 rule for lithium-ion batteries is a recommended guideline to extend the life of the battery. The rule suggests that you should charge your lithium-ion battery to a maximum of 80% and discharge it to a minimum of 40% to keep it in good condition.

Is it OK to leave a lithium-ion battery on the charger overnight? ›

Most power banks use lithium-ion batteries, which are safe to leave plugged in and charging overnight.

Do 10 year lithium batteries last 10 years? ›

Ten-year sealed battery smoke alarms are powered by sealed lithium batteries that have a life span of ten years. These alarms provide 10 years of continuous protection with no need to replace the battery for the life of the device.

Can a lithium-ion battery last 10 years? ›

At this point in time, most power tool manufacturers claim you should expect to get over 1,000 charge cycles out of any given battery. That equates to 2.7 years if you charge your pack once per day or 3.8 years if you only factor in a 5-day week.

Can you overcharge a lithium battery? ›

Overcharging of lithium batteries leads to irreversible damage to cell components and may cause serious safety problems. 1 Over- charging of one or more cells within a high voltage multicell stack of the type required for vehicle traction can render the entire stack inoperative.

What is the new technology to replace lithium batteries? ›

Zinc-based batteries work much like lithium-ion batteries with zinc ions flowing from the battery's anode to cathode. This class of new battery technology includes zinc-bromine, zinc-manganese dioxide, zinc-air and zinc-ion batteries.

What is the new battery technology 2023? ›

New Invention: The Oxygen-Ion Battery

Mar. 22, 2023 — An oxygen-ion-battery has been invented, based on ceramic materials. If it degrades, it can be regenerated, therefore it potentially has an extremely long lifespan. Also, it does not require any rare ...

What is the longest lasting battery technology? ›

Solid State Battery

These batteries have a higher energy density than lithium-ion batteries and could be recharged up to seven times with a life span of ten years. Solid-state batteries can decrease the carbon footprint of an electric vehicle by 24%.

What is one of the disadvantage of lithium-ion batteries? ›

Despite their technological promise, Li-ion batteries still have a number of shortcomings, particularly with regards to safety. Li-ion batteries have a tendency to overheat, and can be damaged at high voltages. In some cases this can lead to thermal runaway and combustion.

Why did doctors stop prescribing lithium? ›

(3). It has long been known that lithium has toxic effects on the thyroid gland and the kidneys. The thyroid toxicity, caused primarily by lithium's interference with thyroid hormones' release from the gland (19) affects up to 19% of treated patients (20).

What is the main problem with lithium? ›

Lithium can be described as the non-renewable mineral that makes renewable energy possible - often touted as the next oil. Lithium extraction inevitably harms the soil and causes air contamination.

Can you reverse lithium toxicity? ›

There is no specific treatment to reverse lithium toxicity. People with mild cases of toxicity may fully recover after increasing their fluid intake, resting, and reducing their lithium dosage according to a doctor's directions.

What does lithium do to the brain? ›

At a neuronal level, lithium reduces excitatory (dopamine and glutamate) but increases inhibitory (GABA) neurotransmission; however, these broad effects are underpinned by complex neurotransmitter systems that strive to achieve homeostasis by way of compensatory changes.

Who is at greatest risk for lithium toxicity? ›

Risk factors for lithium toxicity include age older than 50 years, abnormal thyroid function, and impaired renal function. Long-term lithium use increases the risk of lithium-induced nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, which causes loss of renal urine-concentrating ability and increased risk of lithium intoxication.

Why are lithium batteries not used for long term? ›

Rechargeable Lithium-Ion batteries have a limited life and will gradually lose their capacity to hold a charge. This loss of capacity (aging) is irreversible.

Why aren't lithium batteries recycled? ›

"Many batteries today are not recycled because of the associated energy and labour cost," says Lutkenhaus. "Batteries that degrade on command may simplify or lower the barrier to recycling.

Why do lithium-ion batteries not last forever? ›

What Causes Lithium-ion to Age? The lithium-ion battery works on ion movement between the positive and negative electrodes. In theory such a mechanism should work forever, but cycling, elevated temperature and aging decrease the performance over time.

Is a lithium battery worth it for motorcycle? ›

We've covered the different types of batteries, how to replace them, and how to take care of them when you're not riding. But often I get the question, are lithium-based batteries worth their higher cost? The short answer is yes. They are lighter, have a slower discharge rate, and perform better in cold temperatures.

What is the lifespan of a lithium motorcycle battery? ›

The minimum lifespan most manufacturers expect from lithium-ion batteries is around 5 years or at least 2,000 charging cycles. But, if well cared for and used in proper conditions, lithium-ion batteries can last as long as 3,000 cycles. lead acid batteries, as well, have a similar life span in terms of cycles.

Is it bad for a motorcycle to sit for long periods of time? ›

When properly prepared and stored, a motorcycle can sit for up to 24 months without being ridden.

How long can a motorcycle battery sit unused? ›

If properly stored and maintained, most sealed lead acid batteries can sit on a shelf for about three years and should be expected to perform adequately for about another three years after they're put into use.

What shortens the life of lithium batteries? ›

Avoid temperature extremes, both high and low, when using or storing lithium-ion batteries. Elevated temperatures can accelerate degradation of almost every battery component and can lead to significant safety risks, including fire or explosion.

Do lithium batteries age when unused? ›

Do Lithium Batteries Expire If Not Used? Lithium batteries don't necessarily expire, but they do experience a small amount of energy depletion when left sitting. Specifically, when left in the right conditions, our LiFePO4 batteries experience a 2-3% depletion each month.

How cold is too cold for lithium batteries? ›

So, how cold is too cold for lithium batteries? Unfortunately, any temperature lower than 32°F can cause appreciable damage to the batteries. The chemical reactions when charging lithium batteries below freezing point will slow down to a point where hardly any useful energy is produced.

Why lithium motorcycle batteries are better? ›

How good are lithium motorcycle batteries? For every meaningful metric, a lithium battery is superior to its lead-acid counterpart. They are lighter, smaller, have a slower discharge rate (meaning they last longer), and are better suited for cold climates.

Which is better lead-acid battery or lithium-ion battery for bike? ›

Lithium-ion batteries are relatively more advanced, and consequently, more expensive. Plus, these are much lighter than lead-acid powered ones and do not impact the riding dynamics as much. Li-ion batteries also have a slower discharge rate compared to lead-acid batteries and hence have a much better storage life.

Is a lithium battery good for a Harley? ›

Lithium batteries aren't just for racers. They are much lighter, sure, but they also have a higher cranking capability than the standard Harley Davidson lead-acid battery, meaning your Harley will start easier and faster with one.

What type of motorcycle battery lasts the longest? ›

AGM batteries last around three to five years, thanks to the suspended electrolyte design, which makes the batteries quicker to charge yet slower to discharge. Lithium batteries have the longest lifespan, usually around five years or longer, even with less frequent use.

Is there a better battery than lithium? ›

1. Aqueous Magnesium Batteries. If it were not for a few key issues, magnesium metal would be an ideal candidate to replace lithium 一 it is the eighth most common element, non-toxic, has a negative electrochemical potential, and has a high capacity thanks to its additional valence electron.

How much longer do lithium batteries last than lead-acid? ›

Service life. Lithium-ion batteries last 3-4 times longer than lead-acid batteries, without losing effectiveness over time.

Which battery is best for electric bike lithium-ion or lithium phosphate? ›

Cell Chemistry: Lithium-ion (li-ion) batteries are the best option for e-bikes.

What is the best lithium battery for a Harley Davidson? ›

Best Lithium Battery: Shorai Lithium Battery LFX36L3-BS12

Shorai LFX Lithium motorcycle batteries are some of the lightest and most powerful replacement batteries available.

Can you jumpstart a lithium battery with a lead acid battery? ›

Different types of lithium batteries and lead-acid batteries are not recommended for use together, because the load characteristics and capabilities of the battery are different, which will lead to abnormal conditions and safety issues. Batteries with completely different performances should not be used in parallel.

Do lithium batteries handle vibration? ›

Lithium-ion batteries are increasingly used in mobile applications where mechanical vibrations and shocks are a constant companion.

Can a motorcycle battery last 10 years? ›

According to Motor Gear Expert, a sealed Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) battery usually lasts from about three to five years. A conventional acid-filled battery has a lifetime of two to five years. If you suspect it's time to replace your motorcycle battery, the following are tips on how to do it right.

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Author: Prof. An Powlowski

Last Updated: 05/08/2023

Views: 6161

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Name: Prof. An Powlowski

Birthday: 1992-09-29

Address: Apt. 994 8891 Orval Hill, Brittnyburgh, AZ 41023-0398

Phone: +26417467956738

Job: District Marketing Strategist

Hobby: Embroidery, Bodybuilding, Motor sports, Amateur radio, Wood carving, Whittling, Air sports

Introduction: My name is Prof. An Powlowski, I am a charming, helpful, attractive, good, graceful, thoughtful, vast person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.