What Type Of Battery Do Harley-Davidsons Use And How Long Will It Last?

Harley-Davidson motorcycles are some of the most popular on the market and have been for decades, and it's no mystery why. They come in a variety of styles, they can be customized in a host of different ways (even some classic Harleys make for great project bikes), and they can handle both short and long treks alike. Some are even outfitted with the most reliable Harley-Davidson engines ever created, ensuring your bike sticks around for the long haul. If you want your Harley at its mechanical and electronic best, though, it's wise to familiarize yourself with the types of batteries needed to make that happen.

Per the Harley-Davidson website, there are a few different battery types out there designed to power Harleys. One of the more cost-effective options is the conventional or flooded battery, which should be periodically checked for power if not used often and require the addition of distilled water when electrolyte levels drop. As for lead-acid-based Absorbent Glass Mat, or AGM batteries, they forego much of this maintenance, only needing to be checked on every few months and kept at full charge for best results. Finally, there are lithium batteries, which, despite their big problems and disadvantages, are low-maintenance, recharge relatively quickly, and self-discharge at a much slower rate than their contemporaries.

With the distinction between these three Harley battery types established, which one is right for you, and approximately how long can you expect each of these types to last?

Within these three broad categories of Harley-Davidson batteries, there are some important nuances to keep in mind when buying. First and foremost are voltage and size, as these qualities aren't one-size-fits-all. You should also know which battery types are compatible with your bike. Consulting the manual for your specific Harley should provide you with all the info you need on these fronts. Considering that all three Harley-Davidson battery varieties are intended for different bikes, require varying levels of maintenance, and come at different price points, it's also worth knowing about their differing lifespans.

As the oldest, cheapest, and most labor-intensive of the three battery types, the flooded battery generally has the briefest lifespan. These batteries, if taken care of properly, can last anywhere from two to three years. Since being used consistently ensures these batteries maintain power, less-used flooded batteries can last between one to two years. As for AGM batteries, they can go significantly longer before having to be replaced, with an average of three to five years on them. That leaves lithium batteries as the most durable at a lifespan of five-plus years, regardless of use frequency.

While there is a bit of learning to do when it comes to Harley-Davidson batteries, a lot of the information is fairly straightforward. So long as you're mindful of what your bike can handle, and the kind of riding schedule your battery can, it shouldn't be hard to select the right one for you.