New Battery Help Request

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MI6 · #1 Unread post by **MI6** » Sat Jun 25, 2005 6:45 am

I've been a motorcycle rider for almost six years now ... but that entire time was spent on the same bike that I purchased new in 1999 (a '99 BMW R1100R w/ ABS). Each winter I would put the bike to bed in the garage with a YUSA trickle charger with float control ... but unfortunately this season the bike wouldn't start. There seems to be just enough charge in the battery to keep the analog clock running - but not enough to get it to turn over.

I may not be the most mechanical guy ... but I'm pretty sure this means its time for me to get a new battery.

Since I've had this bike since it was new (and when I was new to motorcycles) I've obviously never had to replace my battery. In the past, for oil changes and getting new tires - I would have a dealer do the work or installation. Obviously now, the bike won't start so I can't ride it to the dealer.

What suggestions would you have for a non-mechanical guy on what to buy and how to get a new battery ready to install, fully charged, and back in my bike so I can get back out on the road in what is always a short summer in Buffalo?

Thanks for your help!

#2 Unread post by **dr_bar** » Sat Jun 25, 2005 6:52 am

Any dealer will sell you a battery and have it charged and ready for you when you go to pick it up. Cost wise, I think this is probably the highest. I found a good battery shop in town and replaced my year old Yuasa battery. (It died an untimely death due to a faulty rectifier/regulator) My Yuasa cost me almost $200 Can but the new one was a whopping $75 including taxes and it was charged for me when I got there to pick it up. More cranking amps in the new one as well...

Gadjet · #3 Unread post by **Gadjet** » Sun Jun 26, 2005 6:10 am

you may find that your current battery is simply low on electrolyte. when was the last time you checked the fluid levels in the battery?

If the level of electrolyte in the battery is too low, the battery won't have much of a charge in it. Take the battery out of the bike and take it to a battery shop (not just an automotive parts dealership, but a dedicated battery dealer) and they can check out the condition of the battery for you. If the battery can be resurrected, they can do it for you, and if not then they can also likely sell you the correct battery that you need for your bike. You might even be able to get a maintenance free dry cell battery - a little more expensive, but no need to worry about spilling acid anywhere.