On the multiple posts regarding non-start issues, and after fielding a handful of panic phone calls & e-mails... For any battery nearing the 2-year+ mark on the YTX20CH-BS (used in most all of the newer Guzzis), I highly recommend doing/having a "load test" done to see if it is ready for replacement. I keep my Norge on a new-style Battery Tender, and on Sunday the bike wouldn't start, even flashing the small red (!) warning on the dash. A DVM showed the standing voltage at 11.6, and a load test proved the battery was indeed in need of replacement. The Tender light showed fully charged when plugged in. This is a recurring issue that has caused much frustration. Get to it, before it gets to you.
I have aftermarket gel cell batteries that are direct replacement, spec'ed/built at greater numbers then the OEM Yuasa for ~$85 USD.
Todd at GuzziTech.com SoCal GuzziTech Power Since 2001!
I think one of the major issues with batteries is that they aren't put into service properly. There was actually a tech bulletin from the factory telling dealers how to do it properly because they were getting so many warranty claims!
Thing is with the AGM's like they have in the new bikes you can't just add the acid and go. The battery has to sit for at least a couple of hours, (I always try and leave them overnight!) to allow the acid to be absorbed into the plates. If they are just wetted up and flung in the bike when started they will simply puke out a load of the acid and warp the plates leading to premature failure.
GT-Rx wrote:I have aftermarket gel cell batteries that are direct replacement, spec'ed/built at greater numbers then the Yuasa for ~$85 USD.
Brand & model of replacement? I'm at 2 years, bike often sits for a few weeks at a time during the "winter" (when I tend to use my other Guzzis more) though I am sure to run through at least a tank of gas every 2 months or so, has never been on a Battery Tender or charger of any kind, & shown no signs of impending failure. Though I do realize it could take a dump at any time. Perhaps I've been lucky, and/or battery was put in service properly by dealer as specified by Pete.
I would be very interested in buying one of them from you. Mine is nearing four years old and it does not hold a charge for very long. I suspect it will not make the summer and I don't like being stuck. What would it likely cost me in shipping to B,more, Md. And do you have it listed at GuzziTech or do I deal directly with a PM?
Pete, I don't remember seeing any PDI work involving adding battery acid. No? I hear you loud and clear, and it is a point of contention on sealed AGM batteries, agreed.
Bob, the last few I got were unmarked. All I can say is that they are made in Japan, under U.S.-spec, and they are tested and inspected when they arrive here by the importer.
GM, I'll get a shipping cost on Monday, should be ~$11 anywhere in the lower 48 U.S. -- PM/direct e-mail is always best.
Todd at GuzziTech.com SoCal GuzziTech Power Since 2001!
Being one of those with a battery probably on its last legs, I would be interested, but also being in the UK, the cost or even possibility of sending it here would be at least expensive. Do you have the specification of these alternatives, what capacity? I have found one here which is the same external dimentions, but the capacity in AH is much lower than the original, so it would probably have an even shorter life.
Brian UK wrote:Being one of those with a battery probably on its last legs, I would be interested, but also being in the UK, the cost or even possibility of sending it here would be at least expensive. Do you have the specification of these alternatives, what capacity?
Yes, unfortunately shipping would be ~US $45. OEM Yuasa is 17.5AH. My offering is 19AH. In two months, the new version will be 20AH. Direct replacement/size.
Todd at GuzziTech.com SoCal GuzziTech Power Since 2001!
Well that is interesting, the whole lot would come to 130 USD shipped, assuming it slips under our customs radar (plus 17.5% otherwise). At current approx exchange rate (1.5 USD to 1 UKP), that equates to about 87 UKP. The cheapest I can get the Yuasa OEM is about 105 UKP here in the UK. I would have to pay local shipping on that too.
Brian UK wrote:Well that is interesting, the whole lot would come to 130 USD shipped, assuming it slips under our customs radar (plus 17.5% otherwise). At current approx exchange rate (1.5 USD to 1 UKP), that equates to about 87 UKP. The cheapest I can get the Yuasa OEM is about 105 UKP here in the UK. I would have to pay local shipping on that too.
Interesting. I'd be happy to send you one if you decide.
Todd at GuzziTech.com SoCal GuzziTech Power Since 2001!
