How to Maintain Bike Battery: Essential Tips for Long-Lasting Performance

Headlights are getting dim, and the starter is struggling to move!! 

Does the bike make clicking noises when you try to start it? These are some indicators that the battery needs to be serviced since its condition is not good. An essential component that starts your bike and supplies energy to other components is the battery. Your bike’s battery is what keeps it in good condition, but it’s also critical to make sure the battery is properly cared for. This is a thorough introduction to battery maintenance systems and advice to help you keep your bike in peak condition and increase its battery life.

Types of Batteries in Bike 

Knowing the type of battery your bike has is crucial before we answer “How to maintain bike battery”. Batteries for two-wheelers often come into one of two categories:

• Conventional batteries require regular electrolyte replenishment with distilled water. The battery’s removable lids can identify them.
• VRLA batteries are maintenance-free and do not require electrolyte replenishment. They are usually sealed and don’t have removable caps.

What are Some Measures to Avoid Battery Drainage? 

To prolong the life of your motorcycle battery and prevent needless energy depletion, stick to these measures:

• When the bike is not being used, make sure all lights and electrical components are off.
• The battery may not fully charge during brief travels. In order to keep the battery charged, choose longer rides.
• If you don’t ride your bike often, charge the battery at least once every two weeks to prevent it from discharging completely.

How to Maintain Bike Battery? What are Some Essential Tips?

Keeping a track of your bike’s battery as it ages, helps you on the correct maintenance procedures.

• Visual Examination

It is essential to visually inspect your two-wheeler battery once every three months. (If you have a tendency to forget, set reminders.) Check for broken or loose terminals that can cause hazardous short circuits. Make sure the terminals are corrosion-free and tight. Corrosion might impact the battery’s performance and result in poor connectivity. Additionally, look for any dangerous cracks, leaks, bulges, or splits on the outside of your bike, since these could be signs that the battery needs to be changed.

• Only for Traditional Batteries, Top up at Regular Intervals.

Make sure to fill the electrolyte cells with purified water if you’re using standard motorcycle batteries. For typical lead-based batteries, it is best to maintain the electrolyte levels within the top and lower limitations indicated on the battery’s container. Because distilled water is pure and prolongs the life of bike batteries, use it exclusively. VRLA-enabled batteries don’t require top-ups.

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• Ensure the Terminals are Clean

To avoid corrosion, which can cause issues while starting the bike, the battery terminals and surrounding regions should be thoroughly cleaned. Always keep them in a dry environment. Regular cleaning prolongs the life of an automobile battery by preventing the accumulation of dirt and sediments.

• Regular Charging

Any car battery should be charged on a regular basis, even when not in use for extended periods of time. Even if the battery is not used for a long period, it is still beneficial to charge it once a month because an idle discharge damages the battery.

• Battery Must be Dirt-Free

Small contaminants, dirt, and dust particles have a tendency to build up on the battery over time. Battery cleanser and a clamp brush should be used to remove them. Make sure the vent covers are tight to keep the cleaner out of the cells. Use a damp towel to clean the bike battery, followed by a dry towel.

6. Steer Clear of Overload

Installing strong horns, long-range headlamps, and high-capacity LED lights, for instance, can drain the battery. The battery may discharge too soon as a result of this. Furthermore, you might have trouble getting two-wheeler insurance for your bike as a result of these changes.

7. Avoid Direct Sunlight

You may already be aware that prolonged exposure to direct sunlight causes petrol to evaporate, which lowers fuel efficiency. However, you might not be aware that sunshine shortens the bike’s battery life. The battery on your bike may bulge in extremely hot weather. A bloated battery could potentially explode if you don’t replace it right away.

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What are Signs of Battery Failure in Bikes?

Understanding the symptoms of a failing battery can help you address issues promptly. 

• If your bike takes longer to start or the self-start button fails multiple times, it may indicate a weak battery.
• If your headlights and indicators appear dimmer than usual, it means the battery is not providing sufficient power.
• If the self-start button doesn’t work consistently and you need to use the kickstart frequently, the battery may be losing charge.
•  A weak or muffled horn sound is a common sign of a dying battery.
• If you hear a clicking noise when pressing the self-start button but the bike doesn’t start, the battery might not have enough charge to turn the engine.
• If the dashboard lights, indicators, or digital speedometer flicker or fail to function, the battery could be at fault.
• If you notice excessive heat around the battery area, it may indicate a failing or overcharging battery.
• Physical signs like corrosion around the battery terminals or a swollen battery case suggest internal damage.

Key Takeaways

You can improve your bike’s performance, prevent unplanned malfunctions, and make sure your bike starts without any problems by implementing these battery maintenance techniques into your daily routine. Frequent maintenance will increase the lifespan of your battery and improve the general effectiveness and security of your two-wheeler. Thus, keep in mind these pointers to preserve the battery in your two-wheeler and have a more reliable, smoother ride! Two-wheeler batteries need routine maintenance to power your bike consistently.

If you want some budget-friendly battery options for your bike, you can check on sites like Olx; they do have good options for used batteries for bikes in good condition. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I check my bike battery?

It’s recommended to inspect your bike battery every three months for corrosion, loose connections, and overall condition.

Can extreme temperatures affect my bike battery?

Yes, high temperatures can cause battery swelling, while extreme cold can slow down its chemical reactions, making it harder to start the bike.

What are the signs of a failing bike battery?

Symptoms include difficulty in starting, dim headlights, a weak or unresponsive horn, and clicking noises when trying to start the bike.

Can I use any type of water to refill my conventional bike battery?

No, only use distilled water to top up lead-acid batteries, as impurities in regular water can damage the battery.

What should I do if my bike battery stops working?

If the battery is completely drained, try jump-starting it. If it still doesn’t hold a charge, replace it with a new one.

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