- Color: Black/Green
- Brand: Battery Tenderl
- Output Voltage: 12 Volts
- Brand: Schumacher
- Color: Multicolor
- Input Voltage: 12 Volts
- Brand: BLACK+DECKER
- Color: Multi
- Item Weight: 1.3 Pounds
Are you tired of dealing with dead motorcycle batteries, leaving you stranded on the road? If so, it’s time to explore the world of the best battery tenders for motorcycles.
These powerful devices offer a convenient and reliable solution to keep your motorcycle’s battery charged and ready for action.
In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating realm of motorcycle battery tenders, exploring the top options available today.
Keep reading to discover the perfect battery tender that will keep your bike roaring to life whenever you desire.
Are All Motorcycle Battery Tenders the Same?
When it comes to motorcycle battery tenders, not all are created equal. Various reputable brands such as NOCO, Battery Tender, Schumacher, and Yuasa offer a range of options to keep your battery in top shape.
Each brand brings its unique features and advantages to the table. It’s essential to consider the charging capabilities of each maintainer and find one that suits your motorcycle’s specific needs.
Can I Leave My Motorcycle Battery Charging Overnight?
If you have an intelligent automatic charger, leaving your motorcycle battery charging overnight is fine.
These advanced chargers are designed to intelligently monitor your battery’s status and automatically adjust the charging process. Doing so prevents overcharging, safeguarding your battery against any potential damage.
For extended periods of inactivity, trickle chargers and maintainers like Battery Tenders come into play.
They are specifically designed to stay connected for longer durations, providing a steady and gentle current to condition the battery and keep it in optimal shape until subsequent use.
Why Does My Motorcycle Battery Go Flat?
Losing charge is a common issue with motorcycle batteries, especially during winter. Each day, the battery slowly drains, particularly in cold weather conditions.
You might encounter the frustrating situation of trying to start your bike only to hear the engine painfully turning over or just clicking.
Even if you ride your motorcycle frequently in winter, your battery takes a significant toll. Consider the power requirements: headlights, auxiliary lights, and even heated grips all demand electricity.
If your daily commute or a weekend ride is short, you might drain more power from the battery than the alternator can replenish.
Modern motorcycles heavily rely on a healthy battery for a successful start.
The ignition and fuel injection systems require power, and the battery must possess sufficient cranking capacity to spin the motor swiftly.
Large V-twin engines can also struggle in colder temperatures or if the battery lacks power, requiring great amps to crank.
Types of Motorcycle Batteries
1. Lead Acid Batteries
Lead acid batteries are the most common type of battery used in motorcycles and motorbikes.
These batteries use a chemical reaction between lead plates and sulfuric acid to produce electrical energy.
They are known for their affordability but require regular maintenance. The electrolyte levels need to be checked and topped up periodically to ensure optimal performance.
Despite their low cost, lead acid batteries have a shorter lifespan than other types.
2. Maintenance-Free Batteries
As the name suggests, maintenance-free batteries are designed to minimize the need for regular upkeep.
These batteries utilize advanced technologies to reduce electrolyte evaporation, making them sealed and spill-proof.
The innovative construction ensures the electrolyte remains trapped within the battery, eliminating the need for topping up.
Maintenance-free batteries are typically valve-regulated, which allows them to be mounted in various positions without compromising their performance.
3. Gel Batteries
Gel batteries are valve-regulated lead acid (VRLA) batteries, distinguished by their gel-like electrolyte.
The electrolyte is composed of sulfuric acid mixed with silica fume, forming a thick gel consistency. This unique composition prevents acid leakage, even if the battery casing is damaged.
Gel batteries offer excellent vibration resistance and are highly durable. Due to their robust design, they are commonly used in motorcycles or motorbikes that experience rough terrains or off-road conditions.
4. AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) Batteries
AGM batteries are another type of VRLA battery that uses a fiberglass mat to absorb the electrolyte.
The fiberglass mat is sandwiched between the lead plates, immobilizing the electrolyte and preventing leakage.
AGM batteries are known for superior performance, as the mat provides a large surface area for efficient chemical reactions.
These batteries can withstand high discharge rates and have low internal resistance, making them ideal for motorcycles with high power demands.
5. Lithium Batteries
Lithium batteries have gained popularity recently due to their lightweight and high energy density.
They are significantly lighter than traditional lead acid batteries, making them suitable for motorcycles where weight reduction is crucial.
Lithium batteries also offer a longer lifespan and can endure hundreds of charging cycles.
Their compact size allows for flexible installation options. However, using a dedicated lithium battery charger is essential to prevent damage or safety issues during charging.
Best Motorcycle Battery Tender 2023
Here’s the list of top motorcycle battery tender available:
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1. Battery Tender Junior 12V
As a bike-care novice, I found this product to be incredibly user-friendly. My main purpose was to keep the battery topped off for a family member's car during her two-month recovery after surgery.
The fact that it doesn't require months of storage and maintenance makes the negative reviews regarding its durability less relevant to me.
Assembling the charger involves choosing between small-ring connectors for long-term non-car use or alligator clips for short-term car connections. However, the color coding on the alligator clips can be confusing, requiring color vision to differentiate between red and black.
For the U.S. market, this float charger is excellent. I have also tried other brands, but the Battery Tender Junior outshines them with its user-friendly design and efficient charging.
It’s better than a trickle charger since it won’t overcharge your battery, maintaining peak efficiency by shutting off when fully charged.
One drawback I encountered was that the product is not compatible with the U.K. power system, rendering it useless for me. But comparing it to similar products available in the U.K., I felt this one still stood out in terms of ease of use.
Additionally, my unit was missing a dust boot on the power side of the SAR 2-pin connector. Despite contacting the manufacturer, they denied its existence and offered no resolution. I had to install a dust cover myself.
It was frustrating, but the way the device functioned in real-life scenarios, charging my bike effortlessly, made up for that inconvenience.
While this may seem like a minor complaint, it’s worth noting that the charger’s overall performance is satisfactory, especially for daily use on motorcycles.
- Provides real-time feedback
- Automatic charge cycle function
- User-friendly design
- Some users may find the LED indicator small and challenging to see in certain lighting conditions
This product is an excellent choice for the U.S. market and short-term car-care needs. When I first plugged it into my car, the sensation of relief knowing my battery would be cared for was palpable.
It’s easy to use, safe, and prevents overcharging, ensuring the battery remains in good condition. However, potential buyers outside the U.S. should check its compatibility with their power system.
2. BLACK+DECKER BM3B
After conducting extensive research on motorcycle battery tenders, one product that stands out is the BLACK+DECKER BM3B.
Another feature of the BLACK+DECKER BM3B is its automatic switching capability between charging and float mode monitoring.
This battery tender offers several impressive features, making it a top choice for motorcycle owners. Having used a few other brands in the past, I can honestly say that the BM3B beats them in terms of convenience and smart charging technology.
This feature particularly impressed me, as it takes the worry out of monitoring the charging process.
This intelligent system allows the battery tender to adjust its charging process according to the battery’s needs.
I am pleased with the design of this device. It automatically senses when a full or trickle charge is needed, and it switches between the two functions on its own.
This gave me a sense of trust in the product’s intelligence, knowing that it was caring for my battery’s specific needs.
I’m also happy with the convenience of switching between 6-volt and 12-volt options.
Compared to a similar product I tried, the Deltran Tender, this device was easier to use with its voltage-switching capability.
This is particularly useful for units that require both voltages, and this device covers both. While I can still determine the long-term reliability, I am delighted with its performance for now.
However, my experience with its cold-weather performance was mixed, leaving me a bit concerned about using it during the winter months.
During our testing, one of the customers, Mark T said, “This battery charger has been working flawlessly for the past six months. However, when I plugged it in at a chilly 25 degrees Fahrenheit today, nothing happened.
I checked the outlet, which was fine. After tinkering for about five minutes, I used a different charger, which worked perfectly.
Later, when I brought the B&D charger inside the house, it was still cold, and when I tested it on another battery, it still showed no response. But surprisingly, about an hour later, I tried the B&D charger again, and this time, it worked.
So far, I’ve liked this charger, as the cords are long, and it functioned perfectly before. I’ll give it another shot in the cold and see if it was a strange anomaly”
- Easy connection with included battery clips
- High-frequency smart charging technology
- Smart charging technology
- Built-in mounting bracket
- Limited charging capacity
It is a reliable and efficient solution for keeping your motorcycle battery in optimal condition. With the BM3B, you can ensure that your battery is always ready to power your rides, giving you peace of mind on the road.
Though it has some limitations, especially in cold weather, my overall impression is that it offers great value for the price.
3. Schumacher SC1319
This reliable and efficient device is designed to work with both 6-volt and 12-volt batteries, making it versatile and suitable for various motorcycles.
In my personal experience, the Schumacher SC1319 was a game-changer, especially in terms of its automatic charging capability.
One of its features is the ability to prevent overcharging, ensuring your battery stays in optimal condition.
I was particularly impressed by this feature, as it gave me peace of mind that my battery would remain safe.
With automatic charging, you can connect the tender to your battery and let it do its job without hassle.
This charger could’ve been great, but “large corporate decisions” made it pretty good. The power cord is a nice long 6 feet, more or less.
Compared to the Battery Tender Junior 12V, which I’ve used before, this one has a more generous power cord length.
The charger to adaptor plug cable is also a decent 5 feet, more or less. The ring connector cable length is 16 inches, more or less.
Now, let’s talk about the BAD decisions! The cable on the battery clamps is only 6 inches long, 10 inches if you measure to the tip of the clamp.
The instructions suggest not clamping the negative clamp to the carburetor or fuel lines but to the engine block or frame. But with just 12 inches of spread, maybe 20 inches at best between the clamps, it won’t reach the battery to the carburetor or any block/frame part.
This could be a problem for most full-size and sub-compact vehicles with all those covered plastic parts.
It was frustrating to see such a limitation, especially when similar products like the NOCO Genius1 have more accommodating clamp lengths.
- Versatile compatibility with 6-volt and 12-volt batteries
- Prevents battery overcharging
- Automatic charging operation
- Durable plastic housing
- Includes jump cables and connection hardware
- No built-in display for real-time battery status
- Relatively larger and heavier in size
Its ability to work with both 6-volt and 12-volt batteries prevents overcharging, and its automatic charging operation makes it a reliable and user-friendly option. Having used it myself, I can vouch for its effectiveness and value, despite some of its drawbacks. The durable plastic housing, including jump cables and connection hardware, adds value.
4. Foval Automatic Trickle Battery Charger
This battery tender offers a range of features, making it a top choice for motorcycle enthusiasts. As someone closely involved with motorcycle care, I can see why my cousin Nick would appreciate these features.
One of the key highlights of the Foval battery charger is its 4-step charging program.
This program ensures a systematic and efficient charging process for your 12v batteries, helping to extend their lifespan and maintain optimal performance.
I remember Nick mentioning how he particularly loved this 4-step approach, as it provided a seamless charging experience compared to other chargers like the Schumacher SC1319.
Additionally, the charger incorporates safety measures such as reverse polarity and overcharging protection, which safeguards your battery and the charger itself.
Regarding ease of use, the Foval charger stands out with its spark-proof connection.
From Nick’s experience, this was a comforting aspect, especially after having used chargers that lacked this feature.
Do you know?
This feature ensures a secure and worry-free connection to your motorcycle’s battery, minimizing potential risks during the charging process.
Moreover, the charger is reverse polarity protected, meaning you don’t have to worry about accidentally disconnecting the cables.
Since my cousin, Nick has used this, he had a situation where his charger only showed one green light, the power light. After investigating, Nick. found a blown 7.5 amp fuse on the ground side.
The connection plug had melted near the exhaust pipe, likely causing the fuse to blow.
Strangely, the charger was tripping the GFI electric fuse box at his house. Before this, I had only his freezer on that circuit, and it never blew before.
Though it was a concerning incident, Nick found customer support to be helpful, guiding him through the process. However, it did raise questions about durability when compared to more robust chargers like the Battery Tender Junior 12V.
- 4-step charging program
- Spark-proof connection
- Reverse polarity protected
- Intuitive LED indicators
- Lack of advanced feature
The Foval Automatic Trickle Battery Charger is a reliable and efficient option for motorcycle owners seeking a high-quality battery tender. Its 4-step charging program, reverse-polarity and overcharging protection, spark-proof connection, and intuitive LED indicators make it a user-friendly and safe choice.
5. MOTOPOWER MP00205A
Safety is a crucial consideration, and the MOTOPOWER MP00205A doesn’t disappoint.
With its spark-free connection, you can connect and disconnect the tender without worrying about accidental sparks or electrical mishaps.
Additionally, this battery tender offers protection against reverse polarity, short-circuit, and overcharging, giving you peace of mind while keeping your battery in excellent condition.
When it comes to convenience, the MOTOPOWER MP00205A excels.
It comes with quick-release hardware included, making installation and removal a breeze.
You won’t have to struggle with complicated setups or fumble with tools. The quick-release feature ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing you to connect and disconnect the battery tender as needed.
- Fully automatic operation
- Spark-free connection for added safety
- Protection against reverse-polarity
- Quick release hardware
- No specific cons identified during research
Its compatibility with all 12v batteries, fully automatic operation, spark-free connection, and built-in safety features make it a reliable and user-friendly choice for motorcycle owners. With the added convenience of quick-release hardware, maintaining your battery’s health has never been easier.
6. ULTRAPOWER 4Amp
I got this and a 20 AH LiPO4 battery for a light backup to my 20 AH sealed lead acid.
Compared to my experience with the Foval Automatic Trickle Battery Charger, I found the ULTRAPOWER 4Amp to be more specific in its compatibility.
It’s easy to use, but the inrush current surprised me when I plugged it into an AC outlet.
It worked fine, but after an hour, I noticed the case getting pretty hot and not burning hot, but noticeable. This gave me a bit of concern, reminding me of the time when my cousin’s Foval charger had a similar heating issue.
Keep it out in the open and on the narrow side for better cooling.
Let’s see if it survives in the long run, but it’s cheap, so not a big waste if it goes kaput. I’m cautiously optimistic, though, given that it performs fairly well for its price range.
This charger is designed explicitly for 12.8V Lithium LiPO LifePO4 batteries, making it an ideal choice for those who own motorcycles equipped with this type of battery.
Unlike the Schumacher SC1319, which I’ve used before, this charger seems more limited in its compatibility but excels in handling LiPO4 batteries.
With this charger, you can rest assured that your battery will be protected against overcharging, short circuits, and reverse polarity.
It is designed to adjust its charging voltage and current based on the ambient temperature, ensuring optimal charging performance regardless of weather conditions.
Furthermore, if you enjoy having music on your bike during your rides, this battery tender will not disappoint. This was a unique aspect for me, adding a fun factor that wasn’t present in the Foval charger.
With its reliable and efficient charging capabilities, you can keep your music system powered up and ready to enhance your motorcycle journeys.
- Multi-level protection
- Optimal charging performance
- Four LED charging indicator lights
- Includes an Absorption Mode for gel batteries
- Limited compatibility with other types of batteries
The ULTRAPOWER 4Amp 12.8V-14.6V Lithium LifePO4 battery tender is an excellent choice for motorcycle owners with 12.8V Lithium LiPO LifePO4 batteries.
Its multi-level protection, temperature adaptability, LED charging indicators, and compatibility with gel batteries make it a top-notch option.
How to Avoid Flat Batteries on Your Motorcycle
To ensure your motorcycle’s battery stays charged and ready for action, it’s essential to take proactive measures.
One effective solution is to connect your bike to the best trickle charger for a motorcycle when it’s not in use.
This is especially crucial during winter when bikes are often laid-up. Using a battery optimizer/maintainer charges the battery and conducts conditioning cycles.
These cycles put some load on the battery, preventing constant charging that could damage and reduce its capacity.
Considering your motorcycle’s battery type is also crucial. While lithium batteries are gaining popularity for their superior performance compared to traditional lead-acid ones, they require different charging characteristics.
Benefits of Motorcycle Battery Chargers
1. Battery Life
A key benefit of motorcycle battery chargers is their ability to extend the overall life of your battery.
Properly maintaining and charging your battery can significantly enhance its longevity.
These chargers employ advanced technologies to deliver the right amount of charge, preventing overcharging or undercharging that can lead to premature battery failure.
Additionally, motorcycle battery chargers often feature intelligent microprocessors that monitor the battery’s voltage levels and adjust the charging process accordingly.
This smart charging ensures optimal performance and maximizes the battery’s lifespan, saving you from the hassle and expense of frequent replacements.
2. Fewer Replacements
Investing in a reliable motorcycle battery charger can help you avoid the need for frequent battery replacements. Keeping your battery in top condition reduces the risk of sudden battery failures, especially during crucial moments when you rely on your motorcycle the most.
Regular charging with a quality charger ensures your battery remains charged and ready for use.
3. Safety
Motorcycle battery chargers offer various safety features that protect you and your battery.
These chargers typically incorporate built-in safeguards, such as short circuit protection, reverse polarity protection, and overcharge protection.
Short circuit protection prevents any potential damage due to a short circuit. Reverse polarity protection ensures you connect the charger correctly, reducing the risk of damaging your battery or charger.
4. Save Energy and Money
Using a motorcycle battery charger can help you save energy and money in the long run.
Instead of relying on a conventional charger that continuously supplies power to the battery, a smart charger automatically adjusts the charging process based on the battery’s requirements.
This intelligent charging saves energy and reduces the risk of overcharging, which can degrade the battery’s performance over time.
Key Features
1. Charging Modes
Regarding the best motorcycle battery tender, one of the key features to consider is the availability of different charging modes.
These modes allow you to tailor the charging process to suit your needs. The most common charging modes you will come across are bulk, absorption, and float.
Bulk charging mode delivers a high current to quickly charge your battery, while absorption mode ensures a slower charge to prevent overcharging.
Lastly, float mode maintains a steady voltage to keep your battery fully charged without causing damage.
2. Connectors
Another essential aspect to consider in the motorcycle battery maintainer is the type of connectors it offers.
The connectors act as the link between the battery tender and your motorcycle’s battery.
The most commonly used connectors are alligator clips and ring terminals. Alligator clips provide a temporary connection and are helpful for occasional charging.
On the other hand, ring terminals offer a more permanent connection, allowing easy and convenient charging without removing your battery from the motorcycle. .
3. Reverse Polarity Protection
Reverse polarity protection is a critical feature that safeguards your battery and the battery tender from damage due to incorrect connection.
It prevents accidental short circuits and potential harm caused by reverse connecting the positive and negative terminals.
The motorcycle battery tenders have built-in reverse polarity protection mechanisms, such as diodes or fuses.
Other Considerations
1. Amps and Volts
When choosing the motorcycle battery tender, it’s essential to consider the amps and volts it provides. The charging capacity of a tender is measured in amps, which determines how quickly it can charge your battery.
Higher amps mean faster charging, but matching the tender’s amps with your battery’s specifications is crucial to avoid damage.
Volts, on the other hand, indicate the electrical pressure of the charging process. A tender with a voltage range suitable for your battery ensures optimal charging efficiency.
2. Temperature Monitor
An essential feature to look for in a motorcycle battery tender is a temperature monitor. This feature safeguards your battery by preventing overheating during the charging process.
Excessive heat can damage the battery and reduce its lifespan. A tender with a temperature monitor continuously checks the battery’s temperature and adjusts the charging current accordingly.
3. Notifications
Having notifications on your motorcycle battery tender can be extremely useful.
These notifications can inform you about the charging progress and alert you when the battery is fully charged.
Some tenders offer visual indicators, such as LED lights, while others provide audio signals or smartphone notifications through Bluetooth.
4. The functionality of the Charging Process
Consider the functionality of the charging process when selecting a motorcycle battery tender.
Some tenders offer multiple charging modes, such as a maintenance mode that keeps your battery at an optimal level without overcharging it.
Others may have a desulfation mode to break down sulfates that can accumulate on the battery plates.
5. Cables, Clamps & Other Accessories
Pay attention to the importance of cables, clamps, and other accessories with a motorcycle battery tender.
High-quality cables and clamps ensure secure connections, allowing efficient and safe charging.
Look for tenders that provide robust and durable cables with sufficient length for convenient use.
Best Motorcycle Battery Tenders FAQs
To use a motorcycle battery charger, ensure the charger is compatible with your battery type. Connect the charger’s positive (red) clamp to the positive terminal and the negative (black) clamp to the negative terminal. Follow the charger’s instructions regarding charging mode and duration.
Trickle chargers prevent overcharging by delivering a low, constant charge. However, it’s essential to use a charger specifically designed for trickle charging and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid prolonged charging that could potentially damage the battery.
Battery tenders, when used correctly, will not ruin a battery. They are designed to maintain the battery’s charge and prevent overcharging by automatically adjusting the charging rate. It’s important to use a quality battery tender and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
If you put the bike away for a period of time you should use a battery tender. It’s a good idea to keep your motorcycle battery charged every time you store it.
Wrapping Up!
Finding the best motorcycle battery tender is crucial for ensuring the longevity and performance of your bike’s battery.
A high-quality battery tender helps maintain the optimal charge level and safeguards against overcharging or undercharging.
After careful research and analysis, two standout products have proven their excellence in the field. The Battery Tender Junior 12V and the Foval Automatic Trickle Battery Charger are highly recommended for motorcycle enthusiasts.
The Battery Tender Junior 12V offers a compact design and intelligent charging capabilities, making it a reliable choice for keeping your motorcycle battery in top condition.
Another excellent option is the Foval Automatic Trickle Battery Charger. With its advanced circuitry and multiple charging modes, this charger is versatile and suitable for various battery types.
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