Hi guys, So I think it's time for a new battery. Had the same battery in for 5yrs and I think it's finally given up the ghost. Has anyone moved onto lithium? I've also heard that you can't use normal chargers and optimisers with lithium batteries. So if I do go lithium, I'll need to fork out more for one of those as well. What's everyone using?
If you're concerned about weight, lithium is the way to go. I have both types in various bikes, but see no difference in performance. Can't comment on longevity, 'cos I've had the lithium for only 2 years. Defo need a 'lithium' charger for long-term tendering, although some do say that a normal charger will work in the short-term only. Any longer and it's said to cook the lithium battery.
Lithium are great for weight saving, check the cold cranking amps before buying as some can be weaker than the standard lead acid batteries main reason for some chargers not being compatible is due to the desulphate mode some chargers start with on the charging cycle
Not really concerned about saving weight, if I was, I'd watch what I eat, lol. Only reason I asked is because I'd heard a lot of talk about them being the better battery! But obviously there's pros and cons of each type. Just wondered what peoples views was and if anyone is running them.
I've put lithium batteries in all my bikes, it's a no brainer as far as I'm concerned. Why would you want a block of lead high up in your bike if you could possibly help it? Didn't need a tender until I got my SP which has got a guzzly tracker on it. All my other bikes have been fine - had one flat battery after 6 weeks sitting on the RR6, just bump started it and it charged itself back up again under running. Otherwise battery performance has been as good or better than lead-acid. Only thing to be aware of is if it's been really cold overnight the battery might actually need a few seconds cranking to warm up and then deliver full load. But that's not been an issue either.
I run one and think they are better but mine is a shorai, also bought a charger which does both lead acid and lithium
I switched to a Shido lipo a couple years back. It's been great, no trickle charger for me I just remove it for winter and keep it in the house rather than the freezing garage. So far so good!
https://www.oxfordproducts.com/moto...imiser_3x_advanced_battery_management_system/ this is what I got @nigelrb
I like the alarm system on mine so I keep it on the bike with a regulated solar panel to keep it charged, mine has been on for about 3 years all good
https://www.1000rr.co.uk/threads/noco-smart-charger.37292/ Saw an advert for these chargers whilst a mate was having some new tyres fitted.
LFP batteries are lighter but also have a much smaller capacity! If you run current draining accessories (including alarms) then go for a high capacity version. The show great CCA but those are measured at +20C and not -20C! But because of their low internal resistance, they can deliver the lower stored capacity in a bigger punch @ 5 or below they become sluggish to turn the engine over and you need to go through some antics to "warm them up" But they keep their charge amazingly well, For me, I have only charge mine once after a 10 days stayin the garage). Get a battery tender junior (<£40) for lead & LFP. I bought an alliant, 2 sizes up on their recommendation to get close to my OEM capacity. They are good but can be a pig to fit depending on your bike's wiring loom
