Shorai Motorcycle Battery Review
Shorai batteries are not just around 75-percent lighter than stock – giving a typical weight savings of about six pounds – they are also far more efficient and will hold a charge for at least a year.
Further, the Shorai military-spec carbon composite case is sealed, and the battery is claimed to be environmentally friendly.
A lot of lithium-type replacement batteries use cylindrical cells, originally intended for low-power tools and the like. However, Shorai, which is Japanese for “future,” has developed its own eXtreme-Rate Lithium Iron prismatic cells (not to be confused with lithium-ion batteries) that deliver more energy faster, with less weight, and less wear on the battery.
From the vehicle’s perspective, Shorai LFX batteries present the same as lead-acid and do not affect a vehicle’s charging system. They have the same charge requirements, and do not change the performance or load on any components.
On the plus side, due to its lower impedance, the LFX will recharge faster, so it actually works as well – or better – when running accessories such as heated clothing or extra lights.
Unlike conventional lead-acid, lithium iron phosphate batteries don’t sulfate; if you ride only once a month, there is no need to attach a trickle charger. However, because modern street bikes typically have clocks and computers that use a little power even with the key off, if you leave the bike standing for long periods then the battery will need one occasional quick charge to top it up. Motorcycles, such as a loaded Honda Gold Wing, with high-draw aftermarket theft alarms and other accessories, need to be continuously attached to a trickle charger.
For proper care of their batteries, Shorai offers a Charge/Store Dedicated Battery Management System unit. We highly recommend this accessory, as lead-acid tenders do not maintain adequate voltage. Standard chargers will work, but they should only be attached for a few hours and then disconnected.
The only downside is price, as a Shorai LFX battery is roughly $50 more expensive than a stock replacement, though it does come with a three-year warranty. When the inevitable happens and your OEM battery dies, a Shorai LFX battery is an excellent choice.
For additional information, including prices for various applications, log onto Shorai’s website.
