How To Know When To Replace A Motorcycle Battery? Check For These Signs!

Most often, a motorcycle battery is one of those parts that drivers usually fail to monitor. They only attend to it once it stops working or causes serious damage. If this happens, there would be panic and delay in schedules, which for most people is a big no-no as they might miss important appointments. This is why it’s important to keep track of your battery’s health, so you can know the best time to replace it before it even causes you a headache.

When it comes to motorcycle battery problems, some can be fixed by repairs, but others that can’t be revived anymore will need a battery replacement immediately. To guide you in checking the condition of your battery, here are some signs you should look out for:

Clicking sound when you turn the key

When you turn your key in the ignition, your motorcycle battery sends a current to an electrical component to get things going. A failing battery will have difficulty performing this function, and the electrical current sent to the starter will be weaker. You will likely hear a clicking noise if the starter isn’t getting enough power from the motorcycle batteries.

Slow crank

All drivers are usually used to hearing the normal sounds of their vehicles. If you notice your engine cranks more slowly or sluggishly than normal when you turn the key, your battery may be nearing its death. Don't ignore this red flag!

Dim headlights

If your motorcycle battery is failing, it's not going to be able to fully power your vehicle's electrical components, including your headlights. If you notice that your headlights seem dim and weaker than usual, take note! This is a safety problem. It also means that your motorcycle battery is almost kaput.

Old battery

Among the obvious signs that motorcycle batteries need to be replaced is old age. Most batteries don't last more than four or five years, and they last even less time in extreme weather conditions. So if it's been a few years since the last replacement, it's a good idea to get a new battery soon, especially if there are any other bad battery signs.

Bulging battery case

Motorcycle batteries UK can die or go flat due to extreme weather conditions, including hot and freezing temperatures. As a result, the battery inside the case ends up dying and needs to be replaced. This is one battery problem that should just take a quick glance under the hood to notice, so it's pretty clear what to look for.

Odd smell

In case there is a foul smell originating under the hood of the motorcycle, this could be due to a battery issue. This could be because of leaking, giving off a rotten egg smell. Not only does this issue require a new motorcycle battery, but it could also affect other engine components since sulphuric acid that leaks from the battery can quickly corrode parts.

Battery engages but doesn't start the motor

There are times when you'll turn the ignition switch and hear the battery activate but will not hear the motor crank over. Issues with the battery are sometimes mechanical in nature. In such cases, the problem may be because of the gears connected to the flywheel. Either the gear has stripped or become dislodged against the flywheel. In either case, the engine won't turn over and will require motorcycle batteries UK replacement.

A safety warning

If you've never dealt with a battery before, keep in mind that it is never alright to let anything conductive connect the positive (red) terminal of your battery to any other metal part of your bike. By doing this, you are risking the possibility of frying your battery with even a modicum of voltage left in it and possibly fry you as well. If you have trepidations about testing your battery on your own, consult a professional.

One of your biggest investments is probably your motorcycle. Hence, it’s just right that you keep it running and well. By checking for the given signs above, you can surely have an easier time knowing when to replace your motorcycle battery. The last thing you would want is to get stranded or run late in an important schedule. That being said, keep a copy of this list and find the best battery shop if your battery needs some replacement done.