When you’re in the market for a new ATV battery, you will notice that the batteries are labeled with various numbers and letters. While these markings seem confusing, it’s time well spent learning the basics of what they mean. These codes can tell you just about everything there is to know about any specific battery.
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All batteries have a reference code that will tell you a lot of useful information about the battery, as long as you know how to read it.
Different types of batteries structure the reference code differently. This post covers conventional lead-acid batteries, high-performance conventional batteries, and AGM batteries.
If you want to learn more about ATV battery types, head over to this post.
To provide the most accurate information, we base this post on what Yuasa, as one of the major Powersports and ATV battery producers, tells us about the designation of battery type numbers.
We use the same example-codes as used by Yuasa in their battery application guide.
The letters at the beginning of the battery reference code tell you what series the battery belongs to.
Battery manufacturers produce various types of batteries that each offer unique features for that series of batteries.
As an example, we can look at the various series of high-performance Powersports AGM batteries offered by Yuasa:
YTZ Series
YIX Series
GYZ Series
YTX Series
Within each battery series, there is a range of battery models featuring different dimensions and Ah capacities to match all the various ATV models.
Note that several sources online state you can identify the battery manufacturer from the first letter of the battery reference code, but that is not correct. While it is true that Yuasa offers a YTX series of batteries, so does Mighty max and probably others. Any manufacturer is free to name their series of batteries as they want. Hence, the letters alone are not enough to provide an identification of which manufacturer made the battery.
This number indicates the power output of the battery. Within each series of batteries, you may find batteries with different performance classifications.
A higher number means higher power output. The battery of my Polaris Sportsman has a performance classification number of 20.
Not all manufacturers or batteries have this letter in their battery reference code. Those that do use it to designate a unique battery case size.
Batteries with the letter H in the code let you know it’s a higher CCA battery. According to Yuasa, their H-series of batteries offer up to 30% more cranking amps.
Yet again, not all batteries have this letter in their battery reference code. But when it’s there, it tells you the polarity location. L = Left, R = Right.
A battery typically leaves the factory either in the form of “factory activated” or “bottle supplied.”
A factory-activated battery is filled with electrolyte, sealed, and charged at the factory. It is ready to be put straight into use without any further action required by the buyer.
The remaining service life of a battery starts decreasing as soon as it is activated. Therefore you should put a FA battery in use within a specified period; it cannot be stored for too long.
Bottle supplied batteries leave the factory as a kit with one dry battery and the electrolyte in a separate plastic container.
The buyer needs to put the electrolyte fluid inside the battery to activate the battery according to the supplied instructions. The battery then needs to be charged.
Dry AGM batteries have a shelf life of 5 years as long as it remains properly sealed. As soon as the seal is broken, a dry battery must be filled with electrolyte and charged. Otherwise, the internal plates will begin to oxidize. This gradually reduces the battery’s capacity until it reaches a point where it can no longer take or hold a charge.
If you have a battery that won’t charge or you can’t get to hold a charge, you will find a complete troubleshooting guide over at this post.
Note that many sources online will tell you BS stands for Battery Sealed, but that is inaccurate. Yuasa batteries have provided the above definitions.
If the battery reference code ends with a number, it tells you that the battery has a unique terminal style.
ATV and Powersports batteries come in 14 different terminal styles. It’s essential to get the right style that hooks up correctly with your bike’s connectors.
The nominal voltage tells you if you have a 6V, 12V, or 24V battery. It does not reflect the exact battery voltage, as it may vary slightly. A healthy 12V battery is typically 12.6V or higher under no load.
The N tells you it’s a conventional lead-acid battery.
The letters YB tells you it’s an high performance conventional battery.
The Battery Ah rating of a battery is typically labeled in a format like this: 18.9 Ah (20HR)
Ah is a unit where 1 Ah equals the charge transferred by a current of one ampere flowing for one hour.
A battery with an Ah rating of 18.9Ah (20HR) as the one in the picture means it can provide 18.9 Amps when discharged in 20 hours. It can provide 18.9A/20H = 0.945 Amps continuously for 20 hours.
Typically if a battery is loaded with a higher current, the battery capacity will decrease. The same battery as in the above example can only provide 18A when discharged in 10 hours. And if you added 18.9A of a draw on an 18.9Ah battery, it would not last 1 hour.
That’s why they add an “H” rating of typically 10H or 20H. It bumps up the battery’s Ah rating to a higher value.
The CCA rating is a number that indicates the number of Amps (Amps = strength of an electric current) that a 12V battery can deliver at –18°C (0°F) for 30 seconds while maintaining a voltage of at least 7.2 volts.
ATV engines, just like most other engines, are harder to start in colder climates. If you ride in sub-zero temperatures, make sure your battery has an adequate CCA rating.
A battery with a higher CCA rating is better able to start the engine in cold temperatures.
All batteries have a label that indicates the nominal voltage. Most ATVs are 12V. If you put a 6V battery in a 12V ATV, it will not start.
SAE is short for the Society of Automotive Engineers. It tells you that the American standard was used to estimate the battery’s CCA rating. The American and European norm differs slightly.
[PP]>PP< tells you the battery casing was made with a polypropylene-polyethylene copolymer.
Some but not all batteries are marked with the proper charging currents.
Most chargers have settings that allow you to switch between lower charging currents for cold or standard charging or higher currents for a faster charging-cycle.
Never charge a battery at a higher rate than these ratings, as it may overcharge and possibly damage the battery. Head over to this post to learn how to charge any ATV battery properly.
Pb is the two-letter identifier for lead in the Periodic Table of Elements. This tells you how to recycle the battery after use properly.
ATV batteries are typically 10 Ah to 20 Ah. Larger engine displacements (cc) usually require a battery with more amps than smaller engines.
Now that you have your ATV, you get to start the joyful process of maintaining and caring for your ATV.
This process can seem overwhelming and a little daunting, but when armed with a little knowledge, taking care of your ATV can be a normal part of your recreational routine. One of the most common items you will need to maintain on your ATV is the battery. The first place to begin when you are caring for your ATV’s battery is deciding what type of battery to choose. Fortunately, this choice is straight-forward and, with a little consideration, you can really maximize your ATV use and investment. When considering which battery to purchase for your ATV, there are three primary types to consider: Lead- Acid (also called conventional), maintenance free batteries (also called Absorbent Glass Mat or AGM for short), and lithium batteries.
Lead acid batteries are the most common type of batteries. They have been around for the longest period of time which is why they are commonly referred to as conventional batteries. Typically, these batteries are easy to identify because they are clear containers with a black top that has caps fastened to it.
These batteries have multiple cells separated by lead plates that are charged by battery acid to power your ATV. These batteries have been around for a long time and because of that they are also the most economical option. If you are thinking that ATV batteries are the same as car batteries, you are very mistaken. ATV conventional batteries, unlike most car batteries, take maintenance to make sure they are able to function and run properly. The primary responsibility to you as an ATV owner is to make sure the acid levels stay within the fill lines. Without the proper amount of battery acid between the lead plates, there is a good chance your ATV will not work because your battery will fail. This amount of maintenance may drive you away from choosing a conventional battery, but there is no reason it should. The fill lines are clearly marked on the container and with proper care, these batteries can last a long, long time. Since there is loose liquid within the battery, there is a chance that the battery can be a little less consistent on rocky terrain, but overall this is typically not noticed by most recreational users.
One thing to note about conventional batteries is that they do not come ready to install into the ATV. When you purchase a conventional ATV battery you will need to be prepared to fill the battery and then provide it an initial charge. This process is not difficult, but it does deserve a mention. Before filling any new battery, it is important to read the instruction manual that comes with your specific battery, but most conventional batteries are filled very similarly. Before you begin, you may want to consider filling your battery in an open space, such as outside or in an open garage, because the chemicals being used are corrosive and do have the ability to do damage. If you do spill some of the chemicals, you can neutralize them by using baking soda and water.
Although every battery will come with specific directions, here is generally what you can expect when filling your new conventional ATV battery. When you purchase a conventional battery, you will notice it comes in several parts.
First, you will have the battery housing, which is the clear housing with black top and several caps on top. Second, you will have a container full of battery acid. Third, you will have two sets of tubing: A longer tube, which is typically to be attached to the battery casing permanently and is designed to help the battery expel battery gases during use and the second, smaller tubing is a spout that will help fill the battery casing with the battery acid. As a safety measure, please make sure to wear gloves during the filling process. When you are ready to fill the battery, you will remove the caps from the top of black lid on the battery casing. There are several caps because they allow access to the different sections of battery that lay between the lead plates of the battery. On top of the battery acid container, there will be two spouts. One with a large opening, which is used by manufacturers to fill the container with acid at the factory and a much smaller spout that is used to distribute a much more controlled amount into the battery.
Attach the small spout tubing to the smaller spout and begin to fill your battery. Make sure to fill each section to the top of the fill line located on the container. It is most beneficial to initially fill all the sections partially, then tap the side to dislodge any misleading air bubbles and then completely fill any sections lacking fluid. When each section of the battery is adequately filled, you will want to finger tighten the caps back onto the top of the battery casing and you are ready to initially charge your battery.
While in use, your battery will be recharged through use of the alternator, but initially it is up to you to make sure that you are setting a good standard for your battery’s life. Providing a solid first charge allows the battery life to reach 100 percent, which will allow it to be the most effective while used on your ATV. Charging your battery is as easy as it seems, but there are a few important considerations. Firstly, make sure you are using a charger that is appropriately rated for your battery.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO USE A CAR BATTERY CHARGER FOR THIS PROCESS. ATV batteries are not as powerful as car batteries and they could easily be ruined by using a charger that is too powerful. Instead, look at the amps that your battery is rated for. Typically, this is located on the front of the battery and denoted by the letters AH. Then find a charger that is rated for 10% of the amps. If you have a battery that is rated 14 AH you will want to find a charger rated for no more than 1.4 AH. Hook up the battery to charge, but keep an eye on it. If it becomes warm to the touch, unplug the battery and give it time to cool before completing the charge. Many chargers have functions that will automatically turn of the charger when the battery is fully charged. If yours is lacking this feature, unplug the charger as soon as the charge is complete to provide the best charge for your battery. Finally, you may notice that the acid levels in your battery decrease during its initial charge in one or more of the sections of your battery.
If this happens, carefully unscrew the lid for that section and use distilled water to replenish the liquid to the top fill line of the container. Being a little involved in your initial charge is going to pay dividends in extending the life and health of your battery and investment. Once the charge is complete, you are ready to install your battery into your ATV.
The second type of battery to consider is called a Maintenance Free battery or an Absorbent Glass Mat battery (AGM). These batteries are called AGM’s because they have layers of glass fibers in-between the lead plates that help to absorb the electrolytes and hold the liquid in place. This allows the battery to better control the vibration of the liquid, which provides a more consistent output of energy and better battery life, especially for vehicles that are meant for off roading.
Maintenance free batteries have several advantages compared to conventional lead acid batteries.
Firstly, they are typically smaller than conventional batteries. Due to the absorbent layer in between the plates, they also discharge at a slower rate, which is beneficial for vehicles that are more likely to sit for a long period of time. If you are an occasional rider, it may be worth the investment to have a more likely chance of your battery working after sitting for a while.
Although these batteries are “maintenance free,” it does not necessarily mean they won’t require some work on the front end. Many maintenance free batteries come prepackaged and ready to charge, but others will still need you to fill the battery casing with the acid. This process in AGM’s is simplified in comparison to the conventional batteries. In the packaging you will only find three items: the battery casing, an acid pack, and the caps for the top of the battery pack. These types of batteries usually come with acid packs that are pre-measured with foil tops. The top of the battery casing will have corresponding points meant to puncture the foil so you simply have to turn the acid pack over, firmly puncture the foil and let the acid drain into the battery.
Once the battery is filling, there is a puncture stick that you can use to poke a hole in the top of the acid pack to allow air into the compartments, which will allow the fluid to drain more quickly. This process can take up to an hour to make sure the battery is completely filled. Once the battery is filled, place the battery cap on top. Make sure to hand tighten these caps and not to use a any tools. After the battery is filled, set the battery up to charge with all the same considerations of a conventional battery.
The final type of battery to consider for your ATV is a lithium battery. This is the newest and most specialized type of battery and with that comes a more substantial price tag. These batteries come pre-sealed and ready to charge and install. Unlike lead acid and AGM batteries, there is no liquid in a lithium battery This makes them lighter, smaller and able to be mounted in any position. Lithium batteries are the latest in ATV battery technology, but that does not make them necessary for all ATVs.
A lithium battery is not a bad investment, but unless you are a vigilant rider, it may not be a necessary one.
Maintaining your ATV may initially seem daunting, and choosing a battery type is no exception. Any battery you choose is going to be a great choice for your ATV as long as you understand the benefits and responsibilities associated with each battery type. When looking for a battery for your vehicle, take time to consider your specific needs as well as your commitment to maintenance.
ATV battery is an essential element without which the operation of the electrical system would be impossible. It is sometimes necessary to replace the standard battery immediately after purchasing the ATV because it does not meet the ATV's operating requirements. Also, after several years of active use of motorcycles, it may be necessary to buy a new battery for an ATV. In any case, the battery must meet a number of requirements.
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There are several general specifications that ATV batteries should have:
Some drivers purchase motorcycle batteries for ATVs to save money. However, not every battery in this category is suitable for ATVs.
To choose the best option, you need to take into account a number of nuances. Only in this case the battery will function correctly. The specific features of ATV batteries are:
In addition, the selected battery model must charge quickly. This increases the comfort of use, because you never know when you want to ride. After quickly charging the battery, you can go on a trip. nine0009
There are three main types of ATV batteries on the market today. Installed on devices:
However, this is a maintenance-free, sealed type of battery. They are perfect for ATVs. Bribes and ease of maintenance of such a battery. The driver only needs to periodically charge the battery using a special device. Helium batteries are produced using different technologies. The most common in this category are AGM (Absorber Glass Mat) batteries. This is a relatively new technology that uses a thick substance as the electrolyte. This increases the safety of battery operation, since the gel does not leak out of the case. nine0009
For the first time, this technology was proposed by Bosch. Today, almost all manufacturers use it in the manufacture of batteries. The advantages of AGM batteries are:
Such batteries also have disadvantages, but they are so minimal that they can be neglected.
The tangible disadvantages include the high cost, in comparison with serviced batteries. But this disadvantage is fully compensated by a long service life. nine0009
Gel batteries do not tolerate critical discharge. Therefore, it is worth monitoring the charge level. Otherwise, it will be almost impossible to reanimate the battery. Modern technologies make it possible to create batteries that are resistant to deep discharge. Therefore, there should be no problems during operation.
ATV battery capacity must be selected according to engine size:
In some cases, the manufacturer installs very powerful motors with a volume of 1000 cm³ and above. In this case, you will need to purchase a 12 V 30 Ah battery for an ATV. nine0009
Terminal locations vary between ATV models. Therefore, it is necessary to choose it in accordance with the seat for the battery. If you choose and operate the battery correctly, in accordance with the recommendations described in the manufacturer's instructions, it will faithfully last more than one year.
Maxim Rogov / author of the article
Back in 2011, I got on a motorcycle for the first time and since then I have been addicted to motorsport. I love trying new bikes. I dream of a BMW F800GT and a motorcycle tour of Peru. nine0009
Much higher requirements are imposed on motor batteries than on the same car batteries.
The tight layout and limited space place limits on their size. At the same time, the displacement of many motorcycle engines is very serious, and to start them from a battery, an appropriate energy output is required. Plus, constant exposure to increased levels of vibration and shaking, and in some cases - regular work in an inclined position and frequent falls. Therefore, the design of motor batteries has specific design features and does not cease to be improved. nine0009
Consider modern varieties of motor batteries using the example of products of the Japanese company Yuasa and the Italian company Unibat , whose range most fully covers the needs of a wide variety of motor vehicles.
Standard lead acid motor batteries of traditional design. Manufactured by Yuasa and Unibat marked 12N for 12V and 6N for 6V batteries. They belong to the Standard SLI (Starting, Lighting and Ignition) category - a standard battery for starting the engine, ensuring the operation of the ignition and lighting.
Such batteries, although they are called ordinary, but being motorcycle batteries, are somehow designed for a certain moderate level of shaking and vibration. As a rule, they are produced in a white polypropylene case with a black top and colored filler caps. Execution leaky - with a gas outlet channel. Dry charged. Before starting operation, it is necessary to fill with electrolyte, after which, after 30-60 minutes, the battery is ready for operation. Require regular monitoring of the electrolyte level and removal of caps when recharging. nine0009
Yuasa YuMicron motorcycle batteries are designated YB (similar Unibat batteries are designated CB). Improved battery design with more plates. They have increased vibration resistance due to the use of high-strength glass separators. The lower internal resistance guarantees a cold starting current approximately 30% higher than conventional batteries. Operating rules are similar to conventional batteries.
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Yuasa YuMicron CX motorcycle batteries ( in the Unibat line are designated CB-CX) - batteries based on lead-calcium technology. They are focused on large motor vehicles with increased requirements for cold starting current, as a rule - on snowmobiles. In addition to increased energy efficiency, lead-calcium technology significantly reduces battery self-discharge and electrolyte evaporation, which allows for extended maintenance intervals and battery life. Operating rules are similar to conventional batteries. nine0009
Moto Batteries for motorcycles Yuasa YTX, YT (according to Unibat classification - CBTX, CT) - maintenance-free lead-calcium batteries built using AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) technology and contain, in addition to lead plates and conventional separators, a special absorbent fiberglass material that "binds" the electrolyte. Such batteries have a sealed design with a VRLA (Valve Regulated Lead Acid) valve system to release the emitted gases, eliminating the leakage of acid.
Often this type of battery is called "gel", although in this case it is not correct, since the electrolyte, in principle, remains liquid, while real gel batteries do have a jelly-like electrolyte. nine0009
Thanks to the technologies AGM and VRLA , the battery type YTX has a number of advantages over the classic ones:
- Maintenance-free during normal use. After filling the electrolyte at the beginning of operation, subsequently it is not required to check its level and top up, and the subsequent opening of the battery is generally prohibited.
- Sealed, valve regulated design to prevent acid leakage and possible terminal corrosion. Due to the tightness of the housing also it is possible to install the battery in various positions (but bottom-to-top installation is not recommended) and safety is ensured in case of equipment falling and overturning, which is important for sports applications in general and motorsports in particular.
- High starting current at cold start and at low temperatures.
- Extremely low self-discharge rate during long-term parking of equipment, for example, when storing equipment in the off-season.
- High vibration resistance, which eliminates such phenomena as "shedding of plates" and, accordingly, increased service life. nine0009
With all its advantages, YTX batteries are extremely sensitive to excess charging voltage and are afraid of full discharge . For recharging it is necessary to use a special charger for motorcycle batteries , which can correctly charge small batteries. With the correct charging mode, gas formation and, accordingly, the risks of battery swelling, explosion, etc. are almost completely eliminated. You should not leave the battery in the off-season for storage in the cold and bring it to a full discharge, as this may subsequently affect the decrease in its capacity. nine0009
Motorcycle batteries Yuasa YTZ (Unibat - CTZ) is an improved design of maintenance-free motorcycle batteries with an increased number of plates and a radial grid structure, combining all the features of YTX batteries with an even higher cold cranking current and improved vibration resistance.
For individual battery sizes, with the same capacity as YTX, the maximum starting current can be 30% higher. Most Yuasa YTZ battery models are shipped from the factory pre-charged and ready to use immediately. nine0009
Yuasa GYZ motorcycle batteries are the latest development of Yuasa, just starting its journey in the motor market. A key feature is the increased area of the plates, which occupy more usable space inside the battery. New housing with built-in recesses for easy transport of the battery. Improved universal terminals with built-in brass nuts. Available in sizes from 16 to 32 Ah and cold starting current from 240 to 500A. Designed for use in large-capacity V-Twins, touring motorcycles and ATVs. nine0009
YTX (CBTX) and YTZ (CT, CTZ) batteries are now the de facto standard in the motorcycle industry and are used almost everywhere from scooters to luxury tourers due to their high performance. It is they that are equipped with the vast majority of motorcycles and scooters that come off the assembly line, and it is they who should be guided in the first place if you need to buy a motor battery.
Even if you have a fairly old motorcycle, in the specifications for which its manufacturer recommends a conventional battery, when replacing it, you should pay attention to whether there is a more modern maintenance-free analogue from the YTX series that is suitable in terms of capacity, dimensions and terminal arrangement. nine0009
The reverse replacement of modern motorcycle batteries with simpler types is categorically unacceptable due to the much greater saturation of modern motorcycles with sensitive and power-demanding electrical equipment: electronic injection systems, ABS, etc., as well as for reasons of battery location on a motorcycle and vibration load.
The most detailed, up-to-date and reliable information about the dimensions, capacity, type, terminal location, as well as the applicability of a particular battery model to a particular model of motorcycle and ATV, is available on the websites of manufacturers
We give here only a brief decoding of the designations of motor batteries, using Yuasa as an example.
