Topic: source for generic inexpensive mc batteries

[gregwaits]

I guess I could let my fingers do the walking and find this out myself when the stores open tomorrow, but here I am at the pc. So I will put to you fine fellow SOHC-ers.

What is a good place to get cheap replacement batteries for motorcycles. The one that is on the CB550 I just bought needs to be replaced. Does Walmart or Target sell them?

Thanks

[nickjtc]

At risk of being devils advocate , my two cents worth would be to by a 'better quality' battery (not necessarily the cheapest) use the appropriate protocols to maintain it in the off-season (Battery Tender), and it will last a long time. 5 or 6 years at least, in my experience.

[gregwaits]

Fair enough.

What should I anticipate spending for a good quality battery? From what I have seen from online dealers, they seem to range from around $35 and up.

[nickjtc]

Fair enough.
What should I anticipate spending for a good quality battery? From what I have seen from online dealers, they seem to range from around $35 and up.

Sounds about right.

[turtle]

I am so envious. A reasonable cheap one here (from Supercheap Autos) is around $50 - 60.

[Uncle Ernie]

Parts Unlimited is a very extensuve catalogue that sells through bike shops. They carry Yuasa and their own proprietary brand that looks just like Yuasa.  Most independants but as fa as I can tell most dealers order from them, too.  Their basic battery for that should be around $20 (going from memory).  A battery tender will be about $35.  The Yuasa brand is better than the Name brand "Battery Tender".

[mick750F]

   I bought one on ebay almost three years ago for $26.00 delivered. I checked and it seems the seller is no longer dealing in MC batteries but I remember similar deals at the time from other sellers.

Mike

[tsflstb]

Wal Mart sells them right next to their auto batteries.  I needed one "right now" a couple years ago so I bought one there and it's been working fine.

[andy750]

I cant recommend the AGM (sealed) batteries enough - got one last year for $45 and well worth the money - lower discharge rate and fires up nice and strong each time. My Wal Mart batteries, without being charged from March - November would discharge at a faster rate expecially if Im doing shorter trips to work every day (4 miles each way) - AGM held up better for these short trips. Of course iif I went for a long weekend ride it wouldnt be a problem :-)....and no chance of battery acid spilling on your pipes with the AGM batteries!

cheers
Andy

[Uncle Ernie]

I didn't think you could get sealed batteries for all bikes.  Where does one acquire this alleged AGM brand?

[grumburg]

Have had very good luck with Champion (same co as spark plug) batteries. Current one has been in my 550 for 3 years. Just bought 2 more for my other 550 and 500t for $24.95 at Rural King. Also can find at Tractor Supply and "other fine retailers".

[andy750]

Ernie,
Local auto store here in Boston had them -$45. Box says "Magna Power"  - not sure of manufacturer but yes they are available -search the archives for another thread on this.

cheers
Andy

edit: here is a link to what I have:

http://www.batterygiant.com/Batteries/Motorcycle/HONDA/750CC/CB750K-Four-1969-82/MOT-ETX15L-SEALED-AGM-BATTERY-190-CCA

[gregwaits]

Have had very good luck with Champion (same co as spark plug) batteries. Current one has been in my 550 for 3 years. Just bought 2 more for my other 550 and 500t for $24.95 at Rural King. Also can find at Tractor Supply and "other fine retailers".

Thanks. I found one nearby, but their price is over $35. Still a deal.

[DJT96]

Battery Giant has batteries for cheap. Here's the link.
http://www.batterygiant.com/Batteries/Motorcycle/




DJ

[gerhed]

For older bikes w/o electric start I buy 6 and 12 volt sealed batteries from electical supply houses.
The batteries are used for emergency lighting setups.
About $15.