A new motorcycle battery can get you back on your ride again, while giving your two wheels the tune up they need. But, choosing the right replacement battery for your motorcycle can feel like a daunting task without a little research beforehand.
Finding the best motorcycle battery for your ride means reading reviews, studying product features, and diving into the ins and outs of available styles and sizes. With the right motorcycle battery, getting your two-wheeled ride up and running again can become a quick, over-and-done-with task.
We reviewed dozens of motorcycle batteries to identify the best of the best, based on Amazon reviews, how well they performed in tests, cost, and other considerations. We narrowed our search down to 5 of the top-rated motorcycle batteries bike owners can purchase to ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride.
We’ve identified the Chrome Battery YTX12-BS iGel Battery as the best motorcycle battery out there. With gel electrolytes for completely maintenance-free operation, this motorcycle battery is one that will keep your bike powered up for years to come.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Motorcycle Batteries
Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
---|---|---|
Best Motorcycle Battery Overall | Chrome Battery YTX12-BS iGel Battery | 4.0 |
Best 12 Volt Motorcycle Battery | Battery Tender AGM Motorcycle Battery | 4.0 |
Best Budget Motorcycle Battery | Weize YTX4L BS Motorcycle Battery | 4.4 |
Best AGM Motorcycle Battery | ACDelco ATX7BBS Specialty AGM Powersports JIS 7B-BS Battery | 4.2 |
Best Lithium Motorcycle Battery | MMG YTZ10S Z10S Lithium Ion Powersports Battery | 4.3 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Motorcycle Battery Overall: Chrome Battery YTX12-BS iGel Battery
The Chrome Battery YTX12-BS iGel Battery took the top spot on our list of the best motorcycle batteries thanks to its gel electrolytes, which make for completely maintenance-free operation. It boasts a [+ -] terminal, and is rechargeable for added convenience. The top LED digital display screen provides an easy means of reading the battery alternator voltage, while alerting to low voltage situations. It is fully charged and ready to install right out of the package, and offers 12V and 10ah of power.
Those who purchased and reviewed this motorcycle battery appreciated that it fit true to its dimensions, and felt it offered “great” performance for the affordable price point. People thought the LCD display was “convenient,” and found the battery itself to be lightweight. There was some disappointment among reviewers that the battery posts are not threaded, but it does come with a square nut inside of the post to screw the battery cables down.
With a price tag of about $39, it’s a pretty affordable choice as far as motorcycle batteries go, and the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup more than justifies that price. It has excellent ratings with thousands of people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing motorcycle owners to make the investment.
Chrome Battery YTX12-BS iGel Battery Key Features:
- Sealed design
- Measures 5.12 x 5.91 x 3.43 inches
- Includes an 18-month warranty
Best 12 Volt Motorcycle Battery: Battery Tender AGM Motorcycle Battery
The Battery Tender AGM Motorcycle Battery took the runner-up spot on our list of the best motorcycle batteries, and offers reliable performance even in harsh climates and demanding conditions. It boasts a sealed AGM design, and is suitable for mounting at any angle. It is compatible with a variety of motorcycle makes and models, and features a vibration-resistant design. It boasts improved cycle life to last approximately twice as long as comparable batteries.
Those who purchased and reviewed this motorcycle battery appreciated that it offers better CCA than the original stock battery on many bikes, and found it worked perfectly even after several months of use. People liked that it came fully charged and ready to use, and found it offered excellent performance. Several users also commented that this manufacturer offered quality batteries.
At a cost of around $51, it’s a bit more expensive than our top choice, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has very good ratings with dozens of people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing motorcycle owners to make the investment.
Battery Tender AGM Motorcycle Battery Key Features:
- Measures 5.9 x 3.7 x 3.4 inches
- 250 cold crank amps
- Weighs 6.38 pounds
Best Budget Motorcycle Battery: Weize YTX4L BS Motorcycle Battery
The Weize YTX4L BS Motorcycle Battery is an excellent choice for those looking for a motorcycle battery that won’t break the bank. It boasts a sealed, leak-free AGM design that is suitable for use in a variety of motorcycle makes and models. It offers 12V and 3ah of power, and features nut and bolt connection terminals. It features a low self-discharge rate and high cranking amps for reliable performance over time.
Those who purchased and reviewed this motorcycle battery appreciated that it offered a vibration, heat, chemical, and shock-resistant design, and came fully charged and ready to use. Some found the studs to be a bit “too low”, but were able to find a workaround for connecting. Most riders said it offered excellent cranking power, and that they “couldn’t believe at this price that the battery would carry the punch it does!”
With a cost of approximately $22, this motorcycle battery is a solid choice for those looking for a motorcycle battery option on a budget. It has great ratings from hundreds of people who’ve reviewed it, which we think goes a long way in convincing motorcycle owners that this budget-friendly pick is just as good at powering their ride as its more expensive counterparts.
Weize YTX4L BS Motorcycle Battery Key Features:
- Measures 4.45 x 2.72 x 3.54 inches
- Lead plated silver terminal for good conductivity
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Best AGM Motorcycle Battery: ACDelco ATX7BBS Specialty AGM Powersports JIS 7B-BS Battery
The ACDelco ATX7BBS Specialty AGM Powersports JIS 7B-BS Battery is a great option for those looking for an AGM motorcycle battery. It boasts a spill-proof design that helps to eliminate water loss for less maintenance. It will require an initial charge before first use, but offers a long shelf life as a result. It comes complete with a convenient acid bottle to provide the correct amount of acid for the battery, with nothing extra left to dispose.
Those who purchased and reviewed this motorcycle battery appreciated that these “batteries charged up great, and started my motorcycle like a new battery should.” They also liked the fact that “they are stored dry so they SHOULD have a longer life, but time will tell.” Some people found the process of installing the acid to be a bit cumbersome, but with a bit of patience, it should be manageable for most riders.
With a price tag of about $65, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has very good ratings with dozens of people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing motorcycle owners to make the investment.
ACDelco ATX7BBS Specialty AGM Powersports JIS 7B-BS Battery Key Features:
- Sealed, maintenance-free design once initially filled
- Holds a charge for up to three months
- Measures 6.8 x 6.2 x 6 inches
Best Lithium Motorcycle Battery: MMG YTZ10S Z10S Lithium Ion Powersports Battery
The MMG YTZ10S Z10S Lithium Ion Powersports Battery is a solid choice for those looking for a lithium motorcycle battery. It offers more than 2,000 cycles under JISD standard, and boasts a lightweight design at just 2.35 pounds. It provides 12V and and 5ah of power, with 300 CCA. It is compatible with a wide variety of motorcycle makes and models, and requires no maintenance for the first year. It boasts a fast recharge time, and is suitable for use in extreme conditions.
Those who purchased and reviewed this motorcycle battery appreciated that it was so lightweight, especially compared to its traditional battery counterparts. People were impressed by its performance, even in very hot conditions, saying, “This battery cranks the starter slightly faster than the stock battery ever did.”
At a cost of around $104, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has really good ratings from hundreds of people who’ve reviewed it, which we think goes a long way in convincing motorcycle owners to make the investment.
MMG YTZ10S Z10S Lithium Ion Powersports Battery Key Features:
- Comes fully charged and ready to use
- Measures 5.94 x 3.43 x 3.70 inches
- Includes a 6-month warranty
Who Should Buy a Motorcycle Battery
A motorcycle battery is an ideal choice for those who need to replace their bike’s battery if it dies and will no longer start. A motorcycle battery might drain for a number of reasons, including age, a bad stator, bad battery terminal connection, corroded battery terminals, a bad regulator, or too many electrical add-ons. If your bike won’t start and you’ve determined the battery is the culprit, you’ll need to replace it. Motorcycle batteries last about 2-5 years on average, so you should plan to replace it at some point during the bike’s lifetime.
Additionally, replacing the original motorcycle battery is also a good choice for those who ride their bikes on long trips and need a battery that can withstand their excursions. Different batteries perform at different levels, and many riders find they want to upgrade their motorcycle’s battery to match their driving style.
Finally, some people find themselves needing to replace their motorcycle battery if the battery becomes damaged in some manner. A damaged battery is an unsafe battery, and you shouldn’t ride on it if possible.
And if you’re looking for information on other motorcycle accessories, such as finding the best motorcycle jackets or the best motorcycle tires, we have in-depth guides that can help make it easier.
Important Features to Consider
Not all motorcycle batteries are created equal. A motorcycle battery should fit your motorcycle and provide long lasting power. Here’s what to consider when evaluating the options in search of the best battery for your motorcycle:
- Size. Arguably the most important consideration when it comes to choosing the best motorcycle battery for your needs is the size, or measurements, of the battery. Each manufacturer makes space for the battery on their bikes based on the style of a particular model, so they are very specific to the ride. Check your motorcycle’s user manual for specifications.
- Sealed versus unsealed. Sealed batteries require very little in terms of maintenance, and are ready to use right out of the box. Unsealed batteries require more upkeep, and need to be refilled with electrolytes from time to time. There are also rechargeable batteries, which, as the name suggests, can be recharged about 1,000 times before they need replaced.
- Type. Another important factor when shopping for a motorcycle battery is the type. There are three main kinds of motorcycle batteries, namely wet, gel, and AGM (absorbed glass mat). Wet cell batteries need to be refilled with electrolyte from time to time in order to maintain their performance, while gel and AGM type batteries are sealed and don’t require the same maintenance. Gel and AGM style batteries are considered the new standard for motorcycle batteries.
- Voltage. Motorcycle batteries usually come in two voltage sizes — 12V and 6V. Larger motorcycles function best with a higher voltage battery, while smaller bikes are best suited to the power provided by a lower voltage battery.
- Cold cranking amps. Cold cranking amps (CCA) is the current that a battery can deliver for 30 seconds at 0°F, with a higher number indicating better performance. If you plan on riding in lower temperatures, look for a battery with higher CCA. Older bikes are also harder to start than newer models, and can benefit from a battery with higher CCA.
- Weight. Another important feature to look at when comparing motorcycle batteries is the weight. A heavier battery can impact performance, so consider a lithium motorcycle battery if maintaining speed and maneuverability is important to you.
- Polarity. Polarity is important to consider in order to help avoid complicated connection problems or cables that are too short to properly connect to your bike.
- Build quality. Like most products, the better quality materials used in construction, the longer it will last and withstand more intense riding conditions. Motorcycle batteries need to be able to withstand vibration, heat, as well as pressure, especially for those who enjoy longer trips.
- Expiry date. Just like the food in your fridge, it’s important to check the expiry date of any replacement motorcycle battery to ensure longevity. You want a battery that isn’t more than 6 months old for peak performance.
- Warranty. Many manufacturers offer a 1-year warranty on their batteries, giving you plenty of time to test the performance of the battery with your bike and riding style. However, if there are some with shorter or longer timeframes.
- Price point. Finally, consider how much you are willing to spend on a motorcycle battery. Motorcycle batteries vary in price from $25-$200 or more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of battery is a motorcycle battery?
There are three main kinds of motorcycle batteries, namely wet, gel, and AGM (absorbed glass mat). Wet cell batteries need to be refilled with electrolyte from time to time in order to maintain their performance, while gel and AGM type batteries are sealed and don’t require the same maintenance. Gel and AGM style batteries are considered the new standard for motorcycle batteries, while wet cell batteries are typically found on older motorcycles.
Are all motorcycle batteries the same?
No, not all motorcycle batteries are the same. As discussed previously, there are three main kinds of motorcycle batteries: wet, gel, and AGM. Motorcycle batteries also come in different sizes and voltages. Each manufacturer makes space for the battery on their bikes based on the style of a particular model, so they are very specific to the ride. They also offer various levels of cold crank amps (CCA) which is a measure of the battery’s performance at start-up at 0°F.
What is the average life of a motorcycle battery?
The average life of a motorcycle battery when properly cared for is about 2-3 years for a conventional, or wet cell, battery, while sealed AGM and gel batteries last about 3-5 years on average. The maximum life expectancy of a conventional motorcycle battery is 4-5 years, while an AGM battery can last up to 6-8 years.
Can I use a car battery to start my motorcycle?
While you can use a car battery to jump start your motorcycle in a pinch, it’s not recommended as it could damage your bike’s battery or electrical system. However, if you are truly stuck with no other choice, it is an option to consider if you can’t wait for a tow or repair. It’s better to use another motorcycle to jump start your bike as it is more likely to have a battery at the correct amperage. You could also try using a portable jump starter or a push start to get your bike running again.
Other Motorcycle Batteries We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other motorcycle batteries. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best motorcycle batteries list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your bike. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- AGM Motorcycle Batteries
- Gel Motorcycle Batteries
- Lithium Motorcycle Batteries
- 12 Volt Motorcycle Batteries
AGM Motorcycle Batteries
Chrome Battery YTX14AHL-BS Battery
This AGM motorcycle battery boasts a rechargeable design, and is suitable for use in a variety of applications, ranging from motorcycles and ATVs, to jet skis and more.
Key Features:
- Measures 6.34 x 5.16 x 3.57 inches
- Spill-proof design
- Includes an 18-month warranty
Cost: $45
Pirate Battery Rechargeable YTX20L-BS Motorcycle Battery
This AGM motorcycle battery boasts a versatile design suitable for use in a number of applications, and comes fully charged for use out of the box.
Key Features:
- Measures 6.10 x 6.89 x 3.43 inches
- Rechargeable design
- Includes an 18-month warranty
Cost: $56
This AGM motorcycle battery offers 12 volts of power, and weighs just 6.2 pounds. It is suitable for use with a variety of motorcycle makes and models.
Key Features:
- Measures 5.91 x 3.43 x 4.13 inches
- Mounting screws included
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Cost: $30
Chrome Battery YTX30L-BS Sealed AGM Motorcycle Battery
This AGM motorcycle battery boasts a rechargeable design, and is suitable for use in a variety of motorcycle makes and models.
Key Features:
- Measures 6.89 x 6.54 x 4.96 inches
- Patented sealed posts
- Comes fully charged
Cost: $78
Weize YTZ10S-BS High Performance Sealed AGM Motorcycle Battery
This AGM motorcycle battery is suitable for use in a variety of Honda, Yamaha, and Kawasaki models of motorcycles, and offers 12 volts of power.
Key Features:
- Measures 5.9 x 3.35 x 3.66 inches
- CE listed
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Cost: $32
Pirate Battery YB14A-A2 Lead Acid Battery
This AGM motorcycle battery boasts a versatile fit that is suitable for use in a variety of motorcycle makes and models. It measures 5.31 x 6.57 x 6.57 inches.
Key Features:
- Patented sealed posts
- Comes fully charged
- Includes an 18-month warranty
Gel Motorcycle Batteries
Chrome Battery Rechargeable YTX14-BS iGel Powersport Battery
This gel motorcycle battery boasts a maintenance-free design that is rechargeable. It features an LED digital display screen which provides the battery alternator voltage.
Key Features:
- Measures 5.71 x 5.8 x 3.26 inches
- Comes fully charged
- Offers 12 volts of power
Cost: $53
Chrome Pro Replacement iGel YTX7L-BS Battery
This gel motorcycle battery boasts a maintenance-free design that offers 12 volts of power. It features an LED digital display screen which provides the battery alternator voltage.
Key Features:
- Measures 5.12 x 4.45 x 2.76 inches
- Comes fully charged
- Includes an 18-month warranty
Cost: $28
Mighty Max Battery YB16CL-B Gel 12V 19AH Battery
This gel motorcycle battery boasts 250 cold cranking amps with a maintenance-free design. It is ready to use right out of the box, and can be mounted in any position.
Key Features:
- Measures 6.75 x 3.81 x 6.81 inches
- Mounting screws included
- Resists shocks and vibration
Cost: $65
This gel motorcycle battery is suitable for use with various models of BMW motorcycles, and offers 12 volts and 19ah of power.
Key Features:
- OEM part
- Includes a 2-year warranty
- Comes fully charged
Cost: $189
Neptune Power Products YTX7L-BS (MF) iGEL 12V Battery
This gel motorcycle battery boasts 85 cold cranking amps in a maintenance-free design, and offers 12 volts and 7ah of power.
Key Features:
- Measures 4.47 x 2.76 x 5.16 inches
- Weighs 4.7 pounds
- CE listed
Lithium Motorcycle Batteries
FirePower Featherweight Lithium Battery HJTZ5S-FP-IL
This lithium motorcycle battery boasts an extremely lightweight design, coming in at less than 50-70% of the weight of traditional motorcycle batteries.
Key Features:
- Built-in LED test gauge
- Can be mounted in any position
- Includes a 2-year warranty
Cost: $66
Kepworth KP4L-BS Motorcycle LiFePO4 Battery
This lithium motorcycle battery boasts a no-maintenance design, and is suitable for use with a variety of motorcycle makes and models.
Key Features:
- Fast charging
- Low temperature start
- Includes a satisfaction guarantee
Cost: $49
Battery Tender Engine Start Battery BTL09A150CW
This lithium motorcycle battery boasts 150 cold cranking amps in a maintenance-free design, and offers 12 volts and 2.5ah of power. The included battery management system helps prevent overcharging, discharging, and overdrain.
Key Features:
- Fire retardant coating
- Weighs just 1.35 pounds
- Measures 4.5 x 2.8 x 3.4 inches
12 Volt Motorcycle Batteries
Powersonic PS1270F1 Replacement Rhino Battery
This 12 volt motorcycle battery boasts a SLA/AMG design, and comes in a convenient 2-pack for added value. It features a spill-proof, maintenance-free design.
Key Features:
- Weighs 4.8 pounds
- Measures 5.95 x 2.56 x 3.86 inches
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Cost: $33
This 12 volt motorcycle battery boasts a sealed, maintenance-free design, and comes fully charged and ready to install. The patented sealed post prevents corrosion for extended battery life.
Key Features:
- Weighs 17.42 pounds
- Measures 6.54 x 4.96 x 6.89 inches
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Cost: $75
Zipp Battery Rechargeable YTZ7S Power Sports Battery
This 12 volt motorcycle battery boasts a versatile fit that is suitable for use with a variety of motorcycle makes and models. The patented sealed post prevents corrosion for extended battery life.
Key Features:
- Measures 4.13 x 4.45 x 2.76 inches
- Comes fully charged
- Includes an 18-month warranty
Cost: $33
Chrome Battery SLA Replacement Battery for 12V 7AH- SLA
This 12 volt motorcycle battery is suitable for use in a variety of applications, and comes complete with a patented sealed post that prevents corrosion for extended battery life.
Key Features:
- Measures 3.72 x 5.94 x 2.56 inches
- Weighs 4.1 pounds
- Comes fully charged
Cost: $22
This 12 volt motorcycle battery boasts 50 cold cranking amps, and features a spill-proof design. It can be mounted in any position, and has been designed to withstand shock and vibration.
Key Features:
- Measures 4.40 x 2.90 x 3.42 inches
- Mounting screws included
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Cost: $20
Weize YTX14AH-BS High Performance Battery
This 12 volt motorcycle battery boasts 235 cold cranking amps, and comes fully charged and ready to use. It features a sealed, maintenance-free design with a low self-discharging rate.
Key Features:
- Measures 6.7 x 4.6 x 8.6 inches
- Weighs 9.3 pounds
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Cost: $43