Scrambler Scrambler 1200 Battery Specs And Lithium Alternative

Hi. First post as just bought a low milage Scarmbler 1200 XE. Always switch to lithium battery as easy way to save weight fairly cheap.

Any reason not to go for lithium, some say electronics may be affected? Anyone tried (seems so from pic in post above)?

 

I can't think of any — the battery can't charge to a higher voltage than the alternator. What i don't know about lithium is how they work for starting (as opposed to steady-state loads).

 

Lithium works really well for starting, starts as soon as you touch the button. When it's cold (like zub zero cold) it first seems like battery is almost dead but after a couple of tries it wakes up and start the bike no problem.

But only had it on bikes with less electronics (KTMs 2000-2010) so was wondering if more sensitive with newer bikes.

 

Li Ion & LiFePo4 batteries require 3 stage charging unlike their LA equivalents. Like for like replacements usually have some charging circuitry incorporated in the battery to achieve this. Even Lithium batteries with a low AH rating are capable of delivering large amounts of short duration current so engine starting is no problem. Personally I can't really see the point in paying a premium for a lithium battery to save 2 or 3 kg on a heavy roadbike, it's not as if it's unsprung weight either.
On a lightweight dirt or race bike maybe.

 

consider warming the battery for a bit before starting the bike. Maybe just run the lights for a minute.

 

Yes, seen that advice as well. Main reason I just try to start a couple of times instead, is simply that on my KTM450, which is the bike I use in winter, the lights are switched on when you start the bike. So a bit Catch22 but my method works luckily. Lithium OE on the 450 BTW.

Regarding charging, I do have a charger which charges lithium batteries, but my experience is that the lithium batteries stay charged for a long time, even through winter, unless something is draining it. I normally just disconnet the battery and put them in some old cooking pots as seen reports that they could catch on fire, though very unlikely I guess.

Also agree that less important saving weight on a big bike like the Scrambler 1200 so probably won't do it till need replacement. Maybe

 

I have a lithium on my 2003 Aprilia Caponord 1000. It works well - easy starting. When it`s time to replace the gel battery on my 1200 XC I will go for lithium.