Battery Options

I had to get a new battery for my 82 xj650 and ended up with the standard wet battery. I have heard of the newer types, gel and such, and after messing with the acid and charger etc I wondered if there is one out there for the older bikes? I've tried a number of battery vendors and it seems that they only recommend wet style for my bike. Anyone tried a different type? It sounds like a lot less hassle if they work.

 

For our bikes - 80-83 650 Maxim's anyway - I've not been able to find any of the newer technology batteries - AGM, Gel cell, etc...

Would love to find one, but for some reason doesn't seem like anyone's made an exact replacement for our 12N-12A-4A's / YB12A-A's.

 

Nobody makes a gel cell or anything else for these bikes. Probably because there isn't any reason for these sizes of batterys to be on there side. I have found however that wet batterys last a lot longer than the maintenance free batterys do anyhow. If you find your leaving you battery sit for long periods of time pick up a trickle charger for like $40.00 cdn and leave it sit on that. They will gradualy drain and recharge your battery while it sits keeping it active.

 

FWIW, the YZT 10-S Yuasa battery is a gel cell battery. It's OEM in lots of Honda street bikes and some Yamahas as well. I got mine for the CB900F3 from my local Yamaha shop for $89.

 

Thanks guys. Spokes you are probably right in that there isnt a huge demand for this model. Would just be nice to not have to mess with the charging process and worry about any escaping fumes or liquids messin up the paint.