Battery for my 08 Softail

[gator508]

So it looks like its time to replace my battery, Its not holding a charge for more than a couple of days. It's a X2 AGM type from Batteries Plus, about 6 yrs old.
Anyone have experience with other battery types i.e., lithium, are they worth the extra $. I have read they cannot be charged by conventional means. Thanks!

 

[Jeff Klarich]

I've heard good things about them. your correct, they use a different charger.

 

[tourbox]

They are also very light weight and usually have a higher CCA.
tourbox

 

[gator508]

Thanks for the input guys.
Funny thing, Batteries Plus has left town, nearest location is Pensacola. I've heard Battery Source is pretty good probably give them a shot.

 

[dolt]

Recently replaced a lead acid (AGM) battery in the higher compression all bore 107" motor in my '02 FLHT and will never go back to lead acid and will replace the lead acid batteries in my two other bikes (when they die) with lithium batteries. IMHO, definitely worth the extra $$ in weight savings and additional cranking power. I opted for the Twin Power unit but there are certainly others. The prices have come down and keep coming down as more manufacturers enter the market. The OP is likely to find one to meet his needs for less than $200 if the shops around. Most manufacturers are making the cases and terminals to match OEM and the ones that don't provide spacer blocks to keep the battery from moving around in the battery box. Lithium batteries do require an application specific charger but they are not expensive.

 

[flusher]

Could you tell me your secret for having the same battery in your bike for 6 years in Fla. I am not doubting you at all, the reason I am asking is I also live in Fla.

 

[gator508]

Could you tell me your secret for having the same battery in your bike for 6 years in Fla. I am not doubting you at all, the reason I am asking is I also live in Fla.

I have kept it on a maintainer, Shumacher, when I'm not riding it, have the same one for my boat battery as well.

Recently replaced a lead acid (AGM) battery in the higher compression all bore 107" motor in my '02 FLHT and will never go back to lead acid and will replace the lead acid batteries in my two other bikes (when they die) with lithium batteries. IMHO, definitely worth the extra $$ in weight savings and additional cranking power. I opted for the Twin Power unit but there are certainly others. The prices have come down and keep coming down as more manufacturers enter the market. The OP is likely to find one to meet his needs for less than $200 if the shops around. Most manufacturers are making the cases and terminals to match OEM and the ones that don't provide spacer blocks to keep the battery from moving around in the battery box. Lithium batteries do require an application specific charger but they are not expensive.

Thanks dolt, haven't bought a battery just yet. I read the specs on lithium and they are a lot lighter in weight, I guess the question is the longevity on can expect from the lithium, the AGM also have much higher CCA than stock.

 

[dolt]

Thanks dolt, haven't bought a battery just yet. I read the specs on lithium and they are a lot lighter in weight, I guess the question is the longevity on can expect from the lithium, the AGM also have much higher CCA than stock.

No idea how you got 6 years out of your last battery. I keep all mine on tenders and have never gotten more than 4 years out of a lead acid battery before they start to show weakness. I replace them at the first sign of the end of service life to avoid getting stranded out in the Texas hill country with no cell service. Both Harleys are high compression motors which may have something to do with battery life although compression releases are installed and I use them all the time.

I don't expect much longer life from the lithium battery over the lead acid battery but the higher CCA which produces quicker starts and should extend starter and battery life. I am always looking for ways to take weight off my bikes and a lithium battery takes a lot of weight off right under your butt.

 

[flusher]

Thanks, I need to keep mine on the tender more than it does, especially when I am riding the other one.

 

[gator508]

Could you tell me your secret for having the same battery in your bike for 6 years in Fla. I am not doubting you at all, the reason I am asking is I also live in Fla.

Actually I live in south AL, it's either P'cola or Biloxi if I want to go to a Batteries Plus, but I'm thinking to try Battery Source instead.

I put mine on the tender as soon as I wipe it down after a ride.