A Comprehensive Guide to ATV Batteries

If you love the outdoors and driving through nature, chances are high you own an ATV (all-terrain vehicle). ATVs are the alpha and omega of navigating rough terrains that standard trucks and SUVs (sport utility vehicles) find challenging. That makes them ideal for anyone living in the countryside, where they have to drive around farms and properties with rugged roads, bumps, and dips. But, for your ATV to be efficient and convenient, it needs numerous things; top on the list being quality ATV batteries. This article will help you understand this type of battery better.

What are ATV Batteries?

ATV batteries are essential components in all types of all-terrain vehicles, including youth models, utility quads, sport quads, and high-performance ATVs. These batteries have one primary responsibility: to supply the charge required to start an ATV. They are also designed to power numerous electrical components in ATVs, including the lights. ATV batteries are vital because they power and maximize the performance of your automobile in all sorts of conditions.

Primary Types of ATV Batteries

Most ATV batteries fall under any of the following categories:

1. Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM)

AGM batteries are also known as maintenance-free batteries. They come with unique glass mat separators designed to wick a special electrolyte solution between negative and positive battery plates. Therefore, it's safe to say absorbed glass mats are an advanced form of lead-acid batteries. AGM batteries are a favorite with some ATV owners because they are spill-proof, offer a high-power output, and charge quickly. Moreover, these batteries tend to be highly durable and last longer.

2. Conventional Batteries

Some experts and ATV enthusiasts call conventional ATV batteries wet or flooded batteries. The reason is, these batteries contain plates that are submerged in distilled water. Most conventional batteries also come with filler caps that you can open to top-up the battery plates with distilled water or bulk acid. Some of the reasons to consider using flooded ATV batteries include affordability, massive current capabilities, and high tolerance to abuse and overcharging. Plus, these batteries are easily and readily available worldwide.

3. Gel ATV Batteries

A gel battery contains electrolytes suspended in a special silica gel. The gelled electrolyte in these ATV batteries is thixotropic, meaning it has shear thinning properties that are highly dependent on time. This gelled electrolyte often contains fumed silica, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, and pure deionized and demineralized water. Gel cell batteries are renowned for resisting corrosion, high charging temperatures, shock, and intense vibrations.

Choosing a Battery for Your ATV

Your all-terrain vehicle needs the correct battery to function optimally. Therefore, you must ensure the one you pick is more than suitable. To do that, pay close attention to your ATV's power needs and the technical specifications of each available battery. You should also factor in the battery's maintenance needs, mounting options, and compatibility with your automobile. 


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