Do I need a new battery?

[Bluehenrider]

I have been riding my bike only about once a month or every other month for the last 7 months. I have been traveling a lot for work. My bike has started every time up until the last time. Now the starter just makes a clicking sound. I charged the battery over night and still the bike will not start. Is it time for a new battery?

[towerworker]

You didn't say how old your battery is but if it's over 3 yrs old you're probably due for one. If your riding style is not going to change for a while you should invest in a "Battery Tender". It will keep your battery charged and healthy.

http://www.batterytender.com/Motorcycle ... 0-75A.html

I've had one for 7 or 8 years now. It really helps the battery last longer. Be wary of the inexpensive (cheap) $10 trickle chargers. The "Battery Tender" brand is a "smart charger". It reads battery condition and does all the right stuff in maintaining your battery's health.

[Bluehenrider]

Thanks. I think the battery is more than 3 years old. I have a battery tender I will start keeping it on regularly once I get the new battery. I travel so much I have to just get comfortable leaving it on all the time when Iam away. I have a phobia of leaving things plugged in especially near my bike.

[EasyBee]

Don't buy the cheap ones but go for a smart charger like the Optimate 4.
Here's why you want a smart charger
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ixz-iuOwFA0
and
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cCRQ4BYdcEs

[AZBMWRIDER]

I live in a low desert and batteries last 2-3 years due to the extreme heat, been using generic AGM type batteries for the last 15 years .

http://www.staabbattery.com/product/UB12220-V.html

This battery is a bit on the weak side if you ride in cold temps .

http://www.gruberpower.com/12-volt-18-a ... ah-battery

I've got two of them in my '02 R

A battery tender is a good idea, if the bike sits for extended periods of time, the one thing a storage battery does not like, is being left in a discharged state .

Leaving the battery in a cold area is one of the best things you can do for it, as long as you keep it fully charged up, it won't freeze .

[CycleRob]

Bluehenrider, Stop worrying. The Deltran Battery Tender models have over current circuit cut offs and are quite reliable. What about all the things inside your home that are also "plugged in" like the refrigerator/TV/heating system/stereo system? They are equally vulnerable!

[gregor]

I endorse the Optimate 4, my battery has been left on over the past 18 months with no problems. I disconnect the power if the house is left unattended for a long time.

[vwdoctor]

Before you get too far ahead of yourself make sure it is really the battery that is the problem It could be the wiring or the starter. Check before you buy.