Battery

The battery powers the starter motor and runs the electrics when the engine is off. Motorcycles, ATVs and scooters almost always use a 12-volt battery, recharged by the alternator through the voltage regulator while the engine runs.

Common types:

• Conventional lead-acid – needs occasional topping up with distilled water.
• AGM and gel – sealed and maintenance-free, spill-proof and vibration resistant.
• Lithium (LiFePO4) – several times lighter, but needs a lithium-compatible charger and is weaker in the cold.

A fully charged 12 V lead-acid battery rests at about 12.7–12.9 V; below 12.4 V it needs charging. For winter, charge it fully and keep it on a smart maintenance charger. Work out charging time with our battery charging calculator.