MOTORING NEWS - Battery Centre has shared their top tips to get powered up and prepped for every twist and turn. 

As the days get warmer, the urge to twist the throttle gets stronger. 

Take time to check that your motorcycle and its battery is in perfect condition.

Select the right battery
It may seem like a no-brainer, but it's easy to pick up the wrong battery. 

There is a variety of motorcycle batteries available and most modern batteries are maintenance-free. 

Maintenance-free batteries don't lose water during charging like other batteries do, making them more effective and less messy.

Check fluid levels
Check your battery fluid (electrolytes) at least once a month. 

Levels should be as indicated by the maximum and minimum fill lines for each cell. Cells can only be filled with distilled water (no tap water).

Clean your battery
Clean off any accumulated dust, grime and small pollutants. To eliminate battery terminal corrosion, scrub and clean them using a clamp brush and battery cleaner. 

Make sure the vent caps on the battery are tight to prevent cleaner entering the cells.

Proper storage is important
Did you know motorcycle batteries should be removed in winter and stored at room temperature? 

This prevents freezing or cracking. Don't store it on a concrete or metal surface in a garage, it'll discharge over time. 

Opt for wood or another warmer surface.

Charge it up
Before you hit the road, connect your battery to a motorcycle battery charger to keep it optimally charged. 

Connect the charger to the battery properly: positive charger lead to positive battery post and negative charger lead to negative battery post.

For more information about Battery Centre and the full range of batteries on offer, visit batterycentre.co.za or call toll free 0800 112 600.

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