Motorcycle Battery Won't Hold A Charge
As a motorcycle rider, few things are more frustrating than a bike that won't start due to a dead battery. But what if your motorcycle battery won't hold a charge even after you jump-start it? This can be a common problem for motorcycle owners, but there are several potential causes and solutions to consider.
Causes of a Motorcycle Battery That Won't Hold A Charge
Before you can fix the problem, you need to figure out what's causing it. Here are some common reasons why your motorcycle battery won't hold a charge:
Corroded Battery Terminals
Corrosion can accumulate on the battery terminals over time, preventing a proper connection between the battery and the motorcycle's electrical system. This can cause the battery to lose its charge quickly or not hold a charge at all. To fix this, you can use a wire brush or battery terminal cleaner to remove the corrosion and ensure a good connection.
Old or Faulty Battery
Like all batteries, motorcycle batteries have a limited lifespan. If your battery is several years old or has been used frequently, it may be time to replace it. Additionally, a faulty battery can also prevent it from holding a charge. You can test your battery with a voltmeter to see if it's still providing the proper voltage. If not, it's time for a new battery.
Parasitic Draw
A parasitic draw occurs when something in your motorcycle's electrical system continues to draw power even when the bike is turned off. This can drain the battery over time and prevent it from holding a charge. Common culprits include alarms, GPS systems, and other accessories. To identify the source of the parasitic draw, you can use a multimeter to test the electrical system.
Charging System Issues
If your motorcycle's charging system isn't working properly, it won't be able to recharge the battery while you ride. This can cause the battery to lose its charge quickly or not hold a charge at all. You can test the charging system with a voltmeter to see if it's providing the proper voltage. If not, you may need to replace the stator or rectifier.
Solutions for a Motorcycle Battery That Won't Hold A Charge
Once you've identified the cause of the problem, you can take steps to fix it. Here are some solutions to consider:
Clean the Battery Terminals
If corrosion is preventing a proper connection, use a wire brush or battery terminal cleaner to remove it. Once the terminals are clean, apply dielectric grease to help prevent future corrosion.
Replace the Battery
If your battery is old or faulty, it's time for a new one. Be sure to choose a battery with the proper voltage and amperage for your motorcycle.
Identify and Remove Parasitic Draw
To identify the source of the parasitic draw, use a multimeter to test the electrical system. Once you've identified the culprit, you can remove it or install a switch to turn it off when not in use.
Fix the Charging System
If your charging system isn't working properly, you may need to replace the stator or rectifier. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and use the proper tools.
Conclusion
A motorcycle battery that won't hold a charge can be a frustrating problem, but it's often fixable. By identifying the cause of the problem and taking the appropriate steps to fix it, you can get your bike up and running again in no time.