You’re out for a leisurely Sunday afternoon motorcycle ride and stop to grab something to eat. After eating, you get back on your ride when all of a sudden, it won’t start.
You’ve been stranded before, and you know that the first thing you should do is check the battery. Sure enough, the battery is dead. But how did this happen? Here are four signs that your motorcycle battery is on its last leg.
Early Warning Signs Your Motorcycle Battery is Dying
There are a few things to look out for when it comes to the motorcycle battery. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to replace your battery:
- Your bike takes longer to start, or your motorcycle won’t start. This is the most obvious sign that your battery is dead. If your bike won’t start, it’s probably because the battery is dead.
- Your headlights are dimming. If the lights on your bike are dim, it’s a sign that the battery is losing power.
- You’re having trouble starting your bike in cold weather. If the engine is cranking slowly, it’s another sign that the battery is losing power.
- Your bike is dying while you’re riding. If you’ve had your bike for a long time and never replaced the battery, it could be time to replace it.
What Causes a Dead Battery?
If your motorcycle battery is dead, there could be several reasons. Maybe you left your lights on overnight, or your bike was left unused for too long, and the battery drained.
It could also signify that your bike is due for a tune-up, as a dirty or old battery will die faster than a clean, well-maintained one.
Whatever the cause, if your motorcycle battery is dead, you’ll need to replace it.
Dead Battery Troubleshooting Steps
When buying a motorcycle battery, you need to equip yourself with the troubleshooting steps, especially regarding batteries.
If your motorcycle battery is dead, there are a few things you can do to investigate the issue. First, check the charging system to make sure it is working correctly.
Next, check the battery terminals to ensure they are clean and free of corrosion. Check the voltage with a voltmeter. If the voltage is 12.6 volts or less, the battery is dead.
Try to start the motorcycle. If it doesn’t start, the battery is most likely dead.
Finally, check the battery itself for any signs of damage. If you cannot find the issue, you may need to replace the battery.
It’s Time for a Change
If your motorcycle battery is dead, you’ll need to replace it. Motorcycle batteries typically last 3-5 years. If you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned in this article, it’s time for a new battery.
Are you looking for more articles about motorcycles or other vehicles and how to troubleshoot issues? Check out the rest of our blogs today!
