A battery requires regular maintenance to perform properly. Keep the battery fully charged and recharge it when the lights dim, the starter sounds weak, or the battery has not been used for more than two weeks.

Finish by testing the battery with either a hydrometer or voltmeter, as appropriate for the battery type.

If your vehicle is stored or used infrequently, disconnect the battery cable to help eliminate electrical drain. The source material recommends charging the battery every two weeks during infrequent use.

When bringing a stored powersports vehicle back into service, inspect the tires, battery, belts, hoses and fluids before riding. A vehicle starting successfully does not necessarily mean the battery is in its best condition.

For conventional batteries with liquid electrolyte, visually inspect the battery for dirty or corroded terminals, low fluid levels, physical damage, broken or missing filler caps, dirt or moisture.

After cleaning and servicing the battery, check its state of charge with a voltmeter or another appropriate battery-testing method.

If the voltage is below the stated level, or electrolyte levels have been adjusted, the source recommends a boost charge using an appropriate charger.

Sealed MF batteries do not require electrolyte-level inspection because they are permanently sealed and should not be opened.

A battery may show good terminal voltage but still have reduced capacity due to corrosion or sulfation. If additional testing is needed, the source suggests a basic start test or a capacity test performed by a service center.

The source material recommends automatic battery chargers designed for powersports battery maintenance, including the Yuasa 1.5 Amp or 900mA automatic chargers.

Even with proper care and maintenance, batteries eventually wear out. Replacing an aging battery before it fails unexpectedly can be more convenient and help prevent an unexpected interruption to your ride.

The source states that a battery can discharge daily when not in use, sometimes by approximately 0.5–1%, with the rate increasing in warmer climates. A periodic maintenance charge can help make up for this loss.

When a battery is excessively discharged, it may not readily accept a high current charge. The source recommends a low-current charge for an extended period, potentially up to 24 hours with an appropriate automatic charger.

Sulfation is associated with white lead-sulfate crystalline deposits forming on battery plates when a battery remains discharged for an extended period. The source notes that severe sulfation can permanently reduce battery capacity.

Cold weather can make starting more demanding. Engine oil becomes thicker, cranking effort increases, battery charging efficiency decreases, and gasoline does not vaporize as readily in cold temperatures.

Regular inspection, proper charging and correct storage can help extend the useful life of your powersports battery.