Using a maint/float charger?/then read this.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2016
Posts: 2,046
Likes: 314
From: Denver CO
Thanks to the OP for this update. Once really was all that was needed, so to continue beating everyone over the head until we change our ways is kind a silly. I have used Battery Tenders for years, and have never had one kill my battery prematurely. If anything, I have found that they do extend the life of my batteries. My OEM's have all lasted for 7 years or more. Now when I have bought cheap replacements, 2 years or so is about it. So I will continue to leave on the chargers going forward. Thanks for the different view point though.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 2,598
Likes: 52
From: South Jersey
My last Harley Battery lasted about a year and a half. I kept in on the Harley charger all winter and in between rides. The tender was about 7 or 8 years old. I'm not sure if the charger was the problem. At the beginning of this riding season I bought a big Crank battery and a new charger with the ability to float a charge. I haven't used the charger yet since I ride 4 or 5 times a week during the spring, summer and fall seasons. Now that winter is around the corner I'll be using the charger but I think I'll proceed with caution.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 5,649
Likes: 430
From: MASS_hole
Here in the north east, even a brand new battery can fail in -30* temps if a bike sits for a day or two. Why they get plugged once temps start to drop so that they're topped off in case I go out for the day in winter.
Cold temps have a way of beating up on batteries. Keep'm plugged.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 4,271
Likes: 29
From: Green Country,Oklahoma
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Cruiser
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 114
Likes: 1
From: Irmo, SC
Ive had experience both ways on this. ATV, used a tender all the time and got 5 years out of the battery even plowing snow (the winch uses way more juice than alternator can provide). My 14 limited, used tender when it was parked and got 2.5 years out of the stock battery. So, who knows........