I know that YUASA is the main supplier of motorcycle batteries, but I'm wondering if there is something better on the market? I need to purchase a new battery for my '05 Ninja ZX6R, and I want one that will last. I am currently using a regular lead/acid type of battery in the bike. (The kind that you top up with watery liquid) What are peoples experience with the "gel cell" batteries available? They don't cost too much more than the standard type batteries, but they claim to be better performing, more durable and longer lasting. The other option I looked at was the "speed cell" batteries. Have any of you used them on your street bikes? They are used, to my knowledge, mostly for race bikes. Here's the link:
http://www.oppracing.com/show_produc...-batteries-p2/
I'm still undecided at this point, so please, if you have any experience with any or all of these battery types I would really appreciate your feedback. Thanks.

 

I'd say the "best" battery is the one that always gets you home, CD. I've used the standard lead acid batteries for years, too. I've found that batteries will last several years if you either: a. ride your bike as many months of the year as you can, or b. the really cold month or two (probably Jan and Feb) take the battery out of the bike and into the house (unless you have a heated shop; I don't) so it doesn't freeze. The old lead/acid batteries are still the best "starts per dollar" value unless you need a gel cell or speed cell for some reason. I thought REAL race bikes used a magneto; don't need neon for the track. Give the rider and bike a good push and drop the clutch! And saves weight!!! [Can you tell how old I am??]
Same goes for car batteries, IMHO. Have you priced a red or yellow Optima ("dry cell") car battery? There a a handful of others on the market, as well. Geeesh! I can buy 2 or 3 Interstates for that kinda money! Mine work just fine.

 

I can't say I disagree with you. Some of the prices out there are crazy. I too have only ever used the lead acid type, but I'm still open to suggestions. I was hoping that more people who have used or tried some of the other batteries could shed some light on the subject. Whether it be positive or negative, any feedback is appreciated. I have to spend the money, but first I want to know if there is any advantage to spending a little more. Does the old saying, "you get what you pay for" apply to batteries too? Or is it all just hype, and the regular ones will do? Any other opinions? So far it looks like the standard battery is the way to go.

 

Wasn't there a gel type battery that was like 1/4 the size of a lead/acid type? but cost about 3 times as much?

I still run the yuasa just because of me being cheap and they have lasted me a long time in the past.

 

Well, right or wrong, I've made my choice. I still don't know if it's the best out there but I needed one and I couldn't wait any longer. I chose to try what is called "AGM Technology". AGM stands for absorbed glass mat. They are a deep cycle lead acid battery that has this glass matting material stuffed between two plates to hold the acid in place, and provide support for the plates against damage from vibration. Glass mat batteries have less internal resistance and therefore are able to offer more cold cranking amps. AGM batteries dense glass packing between plates lowers the internal resistance so they are considerably more resistant to vibrations, have faster recharging rates, longer discharge and higher amperage output than other deep cycle battery technologies. The electrolyte (acid) is completely absorbed into the matt and is 'un-spillable'. If all goes well, it should work out well. I'll be sure to keep you all posted.

Thanks to those of you who responded.

 

I dont think you really need a deep cycle battery, but it shouldn't run any different than a normal battery. Congrats on the purchase, now get out and ride!

 

I really wanted to buy a battery that I could trust. This battery I bought had all the criteria I was looking for and more. It only cost a little more than $100 Canadian dollars, so I thought I would try it. The best part about it was that when I was shopping for the battery, I found the exact make and model of bike I was going to use it in, on the reference list, so I know that it will definitely work the same, only it should last a lot longer. The voltage and amperage output is the same as what the manufacturer of my bike requires. And don't worry, I'll be riding every chance I get!! Thanks.

 

A rep from Yuasa mentioned that batteries last a LOT longer if you add the fluids and let them soak for at least 4 hours before doing a trickle charge to full power. The longer you soak, the better. I did mine in the evening, then went to bed. In the morning I hooked up the charger.

We'll see if he's right I guess.......