My bike will soon start its 6th year on the present battery (if I re-install it). During winter storage, I pull the battery and bring into the basement to put it on the trickle charger. There is no physical damage to the battery. But, it will not last forever. So, what can I reasonably expect from this battery, another year or two, OR should I replace it now? Five years on this battery seems beyond normal. By the way, I ride about 8,000 miles per year and mostly on remote backroads (so a roadside breakdown would make for a very long day). Thanks.

 

Rather than remove the battery for the trickle charger, why not have a battery tender on it every day when you're not riding? I'm so glad I finally did it. Nothing helps a battery more than a good battery tender with just a plug in application. Incidentally, if you are on your sixth year, you are doing well, but I'd start shopping soon just in case, since NO ONE really knows when any particular battery will say, "I give up-I've had enough".

 

IMO you're about maxed out on your battery. I got 7 yrs. on one I put on a battery tender every winter.

 

I got 8 years on my last battery and yes, it hooked up to a battery tender every day after the ride. I have just over 5 on this one, which is the original with the bike. I'm hoping for another 3...maybe. The battery to keep an eye on is your fob battery. I found that out the hard way, when I found myself stranded in the middle of no where. Fortunately, I discovered a work-a-round, which I'm sure a few of you know about.

 

Clarification on my battery tender. It is on the battery all the time after all when not in the bike.

I think I'll look for one of the new gel batteries for this season.

 

The OEM battery on my 06 roadglide is still going strong. I put the battery tender on it in the winter but not during riding season. I don't plan to replace the battery until it shows signs of weakness.

 

+1

 

You're on borrowed time. Compare the price of a replacement battery and getting yourself outa a jam out in the sticks, and the battery will appear pretty cheap. Plus it will free up your head to worry about something else.

 

I made it 10yrs on the factory battery in my 35k+ sporty. I replaced it because I got tired of having to remember to plug it up if I was riding the next day. Bought a new battery and tender with plug in leads on battery much easier+++.

 

Any time you get 5 years on any battery you did well,,if your bike starts a little sluggish,,time for a new one ,,till then,,your good to go,,,,if there is nothing wrong with your charging system,,,the battery won't die suddenly,,