Let me assure you that with a classic /2 you definitely want to go toward a sealed battery of some shape or description. Dimensions are the key to finding a new battery. You want a "deep cycle" type battery (as found with battery backup, solar power systems, and emergency lighting), because your bike doesn't have an electric starter. Therefore advertising claims of "maximum cold cranking amps (CCA)" mean zero in your application. In fact, high current release for electric starter is exactly the type battery construction you do NOT want.

Read the instructions that come with your battery carefully. Sealed batteries typically like a slightly higher charging voltage over the old flooded wet cell. Each battery brand varies. So you might have to tweak your regulator to get maximum battery life.

You'll find the best deals from battery suppliers, and not motorcycle shops. Get those dimensions and start searching the web.

Hope this helps.

Thanks Wobbly,

I’m going to bring the stock battery into Batteries Plus and see what they can match up dimension wise. There’s also a boat marine place nearby that I will check out. I’ll post what I find, thanks again!

Ben

Batteries Plus is an excellent source for 3rd party batteries and reliable battery information. It is also important for the battery to fit snugly into the battery tray. Due to thin wall plastics, you may find that modern battery sizes are slightly smaller for the same voltage and AH rating. (Note here that a higher AH rating than OEM would be a good thing.) However, the battery still needs to fit the battery tray snugly to prevent it being punctured while moving around.

I typically shim replacement batteries with the dense white protective foam that is used to pack televisions, computers, and other expensive electronics. Dow Chemical calls this product Ethafoam, but it is fairly ubiquitous these days. I'm telling you this now so that you can secure a lifetime supply on Christmas morning ! 😛 It is easily cut to size with a serrated kitchen knife, and will not absorb water, which make it perfect for this application.

I can't think of a better reason to buy the wife that new flat screen TV she's been asking for !!

All the best.

Is the Batteries Plus store you refer to the same as Batteries Plus Bulbs? I did a search for "Batteries Plus" and that is what came back. Thanks.

Yes, it is Batteries Plus Bulbs.

Ben

Thanks, will give that a try.

I have had generally pretty good luck with Westco AGM batteries. I have had a dud or two but that seems typical with batteries these days. If you can get a good one, they hold a charge much longer than a wet cell battery which makes maintaining them in the winter much easier.

Hey guys, we finally have some 50 degree weather here in Chicago, and I’m happy to say I think I’ve found a good replacement battery for the /2. I got it from boxer2valve, as advertised in the Airmail. The dimensions are exactly the same as the original battery, fits perfectly. It’s a 6 volt, Gel battery, 16 AH vs the stock 8AH. I’ve only been on a couple rides so far this season, and so far so good. I’ll keep you guys updated. Safe travels!
Ben

Here is a picture of the battery as well.

Ben