How long do batteries last?

[cc mac]

As mentioned in the Ardennes post. I have been experiencing starting/running problems. It has been suggested that it might be a dodgy battery. How long do they usually last? My bike is a 1999 model with 33k on the clock. I use it regularly, always with headlights on, and hooked up to an Optimate during less frequent winter use.

[winny]

Hi,

I just replaced the original battery on mine this year (1998 bike). Although it's never really had any hard use and for the last year it needed changing as I was having to charge it regularly as it was going flat if the bike wasn't run for more than fortnight.

So, if yours is still on the original, I would expect it's about had it!

John

[cc mac]

On the same note. If the battery was dodgy, and I managed to get the bike started, would a dodgy battery cause it to cut out once running, or would the alternator provide enough to keep it going? If it cut out 5 mins later, could it still be the battery. I would be really happy if it was just a knackered battery, as it is easy to rectify (no pun intended). I just don't want a BMW dealer to charge me 50 quid to tell me.

[oyster]

My original battery lasted six years; infrequent use for three years then daily use three years. If yours is getting near this vintage, or if you are confident the battery is faulty, get a new one and charge it properly BEFORE use.

[winger]

At four years old,decided i'd had my moneys worth on the basis that bumping an S isn't an option,my original battery is still in use today starting all sorts of bikes and scooters,it's six year old!!!.

Chris

[Blackal]

Battery life is one of those unquantifiable things - Some seem to last forever!

If the battery seems to be low and once the bike is started - runs for a while and the engine dies - could be the alternator or diode pack in the output circuit.

I would say that the best treatment of batteries is to occasionally discharge completely and re-charge, coupled to use of an Optimate or similar.

Al

[cc mac]

It wasn't the battery. I fitted a Hawker Odyssey yesterday (Sat 8th). It started ok today but cut out after 8 miles. Got the AA to tow it.. Hope it doesn't get nicked before then.

[Blackal]

It wasn't the battery. I fitted a Hawker Odyssey yesterday (Sat 8th). It started ok today but cut out after 8 miles. Got the AA to tow it. Hope it doesn't get nicked before then.

At least you know they won't get far

I would still go for the charging circuit, although I'm not sure how long a battery lasts if not maintained by the alternator. I guess your lights are on permanently - so 8 miles might be about it? Was the lighting fading before it conked out?

Good luck with the bike (and the bill)

Al

[cc mac]

Lights where fine. The battery wasn't getting flat. Once it cut out, the engine could still be turned over. It just wouldn't fire up. This problem is somehow connected to the engine getting warm. I have heard it might be something to do with the hall sensors and the timing plate. A BMW mechanic suggested this, and gave me the impression the problem wasn't unknown (due to the age of the vehicle). Don't know if anyone else has had a problem with this.