How Can I Upgrade My Motorcycle Battery for Additional Halogen Headlights?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around upgrading a motorcycle battery to support additional halogen headlights on a Yamaha Enticer 125cc. Participants explore the electrical requirements, potential solutions for battery capacity, and the implications of modifying the motorcycle's electrical system.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes the current battery (12v-6amp) is insufficient for the additional load of two 55-watt halogen headlights, totaling 110 watts.
  • Another suggests that simply increasing battery capacity is not enough; the motorcycle's charging system must also support the additional load without draining the battery.
  • Some participants propose rewinding the stator coils to increase output amperage, while others express hesitation about the complexity of such modifications.
  • There is a suggestion that upgrading to a motorcycle with a more powerful electrical system might be necessary if the current system cannot handle the load.
  • A participant mentions the impracticality of shipping a heavy-duty battery internationally due to cost and restrictions, leading to the consideration of using a separate battery charged independently.
  • Questions arise regarding alternative battery types, such as Lithium-Ion or Nickel-Metal-Hydride, which offer higher energy density but may require modifications to the charging system.
  • Participants discuss the spatial constraints for fitting an additional battery, emphasizing the need for dimensions that match standard motorcycle batteries.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of opinions on the feasibility of upgrading the battery and electrical system. There is no consensus on the best approach, with some advocating for rewiring and others suggesting alternative solutions or upgrades.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the dependency on the motorcycle's existing electrical system capabilities, the potential need for modifications to accommodate different battery types, and the constraints of space for additional batteries.

Who May Find This Useful

Motorcycle enthusiasts, electrical engineers, and individuals interested in modifying motorcycle lighting systems may find this discussion relevant.

abetterday69
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Help! Motorcycle needs more...?

My problem concerns standard motorcycle 12v-6amp battery.

I have a Yamaha Enticer 125cc. Standard electrica system with a approx. 44 watts total requirments for all lights, etc.

What I need to do is add two halgon - 12v. 55watts X 2=110 watts to my system.

Obvisiously the 12v -6 amp will not support the extra wattage.

Can some please explain how to resolve this issue?

I need to add two additional halogen headlights to my motorcycle.

Thanks.
 
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Would this one work?
http://www.apexbattery.com/yamaha-et340e-enticer-battery-1979-snowmobile-batteries-yamaha-snowmobile-batteries.html"
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Simply increasing the battery capacity is insufficient. The vehicle's charging system must be able to sustain the load without draining from the battery. Unless you intend to use the extra lights for only short periods, allowing time to recharge the battery between uses. However, that will dramatically reduce the longevity of a typical lead-acid battery.

You may be able to rewind the stator coils to increase the output amperage. Look over these examples:
http://www.4strokes.com/tech/honda/brpstatr.asp
http://www.spokanister.net/ktm_stator.htm

You will almost certainly need to also modify the rectifier and regulator circuit/components to handle the increased electrical load.
 


Well, you wanted a battery that could provide more current but if your charger can't keep up, you have no choice to but find one that will do the job. Maybe the 125cc is to small to keep up. :biggrin:

If it were me, I wouldn't want to take on rewiring a stator, but if it's been done before and works, go for it.
 


abetterday69 said:
My problem concerns standard motorcycle 12v-6amp battery.

I have a Yamaha Enticer 125cc. Standard electrica system with a approx. 44 watts total requirments for all lights, etc.

What I need to do is add two halgon - 12v. 55watts X 2=110 watts to my system.

Obvisiously the 12v -6 amp will not support the extra wattage.

Can some please explain how to resolve this issue?

I need to add two additional halogen headlights to my motorcycle.

Thanks.

I'm with dlgoff on this one. Most likely the alternator volume wouldn't support re-winding anyway. Time to upgrade to a bike that has a more powerful electrical system. Otherwise, you run the extra lighting off independently-recharged batteries.
 


Thanks everyone for the information.

Since I live in India the cost to send the heavy duty battery (digoff) is prohibitive and the company does not ship internationaly for purchases less than $250.00.

All the other information seems to be correct inline with what the Yamaha people tell me.

I guess I will have to just add a seperarte battery and charge it from time to time.

One more question please. Is there a better choice of battery to use than the regular acid type battery. Remember I have very limited space to add the second battery so it will need to be the approx. size of a regular motorcycle battery. I have approx.6"(w) x 12"(L) X 8" (H)space to fit the extra battery. Also since I live in India I may have limited choices as to different kinds of batteries.
Any additional information would be appreciated.
Thanks.
 


abetterday69 said:
...
One more question please. Is there a better choice of battery to use than the regular acid type battery.
Well, as far as battery chemistry (Lead-Acid versus Nickel-Metal-Hydride, Lithium-Ion, etc.), yes, there are quite a few options for higher energy density, and lighter weight, but the prices are substantially higher. Your charging system would also have to be modified.

abetterday69 said:
Remember I have very limited space to add the second battery so it will need to be the approx. size of a regular motorcycle battery. I have approx.6"(w) x 12"(L) X 8" (H)space to fit the extra battery.
Try looking at various manufacturers websites. Chances are they will have lists of their batteries' physical dimensions. From there, you can cross-reference battery model numbers through your local parts dealer.
 

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