Here in New Zealand, motorcyclists have a huge range of options when it comes to motorcycle batteries and one of the biggest dilemmas is which type of battery is going to deliver the best bang for your buck.
The two main protagonists in this debate are lead acid batteries and lithium-ion batteries – the new kid on the block. Both bring their own advantages and disadvantages to the table and we’re here to help you to decide which type of battery is going to be best for your ride – both now and also in the future.
In this post, we aim to determine whether the future of motorcycle batteries is already here and if so, what that means for motorcycle riders here in New Zealand.
Let's dig in!
The Rise of Lithium-Ion
Lithium-ion batteries have been making waves in the motorcycle world, and for good reason. These lightweight powerhouses are becoming increasingly popular among Kiwi riders. In fact, a recent report suggests that the lithium-ion motorcycle battery market is set to grow at a whopping 12.4% annually from 2022 to 2030. That's some serious momentum!
It’s not just in the world of motorcycles where lithium-ion batteries are starting to take over. From car batteries to marine batteries, golf carts to mobile phones, lithium-ion batteries are changing a number of industries thanks to their light weight and long-lasting power. They are also a low maintenance option to many other batteries on the market across a wide range of applications and all these factors make them a great choice for motorcycle enthusiasts.
Why the Buzz About Lithium?
So, what's got everyone talking about lithium-ion batteries? Here are a few key advantages:
1. Lightweight Champion: Lithium-ion batteries typically weigh about one-third of their lead-acid counterparts. That's a significant weight saving that can improve your bike's handling and performance.
2. Long-Lasting Power: With proper care, a lithium-ion battery can last up to 10 years, outperforming lead-acid batteries in longevity.
3. Low Maintenance: Unlike lead-acid batteries, lithium-ion doesn't require regular electrolyte top-ups or maintenance.
4. Cold Weather Performance: Lithium-ion batteries perform better in cold conditions, losing only about 10% capacity at freezing temperatures compared to lead-acid's 50% loss.
With key benefits like the ones listed above, it’s easy to see why a lot of riders are shifting to lithium-ion for their motorcycle batteries, however, the old guard – lead-acid – is not ready to roll over just yet.
Lead-Acid: The Reliable Old Guard
Despite the lithium-ion hype, lead-acid batteries are still the most common type found in motorcycles. In fact, a 2022 survey in the US found that over 70% of motorcycle owners are still using lead-acid batteries. Why? Well, they've got a few tricks up their sleeve:
1. Cost-Effective: Lead-acid batteries are generally more affordable upfront.
2. Widely Available: You can find lead-acid batteries just about anywhere, making replacements easy.
3. Proven Technology: Lead-acid has been around for ages and has a track record of reliability.
Whilst they may not be around forever, their cost-effectiveness is one of the primary benefits of choosing a lead-acid battery over a lithium-ion battery, however, that cost saving may be short lived with higher maintenance costs and poorer performance in winter weather often leading to higher costs further down the line.
Still, lead-acid batteries have stood the test of time and whilst new technology always makes big waves, there is more often than not, room for both battery types in the market and we expect lead-acid batteries to be around for some time as manufacturers continue to invest in improving their overall performance and longevity as well as looking at ways to lighten the battery.
Making the Choice: Lithium-Ion or Lead-Acid?
Choosing between lithium-ion and lead-acid comes down to your specific needs and riding style. Here's a quick comparison to help you decide:
|
Feature |
Lithium-Ion |
Lead-Acid |
|
Weight |
Lighter |
Heavier |
|
Lifespan |
Longer |
Shorter |
|
Initial Cost |
Higher |
Lower |
|
Maintenance |
Low |
Higher |
|
Cold Weather Performance |
Better |
Poorer |
For more information about Lithium vs Lead batteries, you can check out our recent post and learn more about the different maintenance needs of motorcycle batteries.
Extending the Life of Your Motorcycle Battery
No matter what type of battery you use in your motorbike, there are always ways to extract more performance out of your battery with some simple maintenance tips.
In a recent post, we looked at how it’s possible to get 30% more life out of your motorcycle battery by following some simple tips.
The post goes into detail about the different types of motorcycle battery including the two protagonists above as well as AGM (absorbed Glass Mat) batteries, looking in depth at the factors that affect your battery life and providing tips on how to improve your battery’s performance.
In another post, we also looked at how modern technology could be the cause of the silent drain of your motorcycle battery – from GPS to heated grips, Bluetooth connectivity to USB charging ports.
When choosing between a lead acid and lithium-ion battery, it’s important to understand all these factors so you can make an informed decision about the best battery for your needs.
The MR MOTO Take
While lithium-ion batteries are certainly impressive, we believe both types have their place in the motorcycle world. For riders looking for top performance, weight savings, and low maintenance, lithium-ion is a fantastic choice. However, if you're on a budget or prefer tried-and-true technology, a quality lead-acid battery can still serve you well.
At MR MOTO, we stock both lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries to cater to all our Kiwi riders' needs. Whether you're cruising the streets of Auckland or tackling the South Island's rugged terrain, we've got the right battery for your ride.
Remember, whichever type you choose, proper maintenance is key to getting the most out of your battery. And if you're ever unsure, our team is always here to help you make the best choice for your motorcycle.
So, is the future of motorcycle batteries already here? We reckon it's a mix of both old and new. The important thing is finding the right fit for you and your ride. Happy riding, New Zealand!