BigMark7 Posted March 17, 2009 Share #1 Posted March 17, 2009 Hi guys, Just wondering if anyone on here has tried the MegaMax gel battery that is for sale on E Bay? It's advertised as direct fit for the first gen which sounds good but I'm just wondering if it's worth saving the $35 or so as compared to the Odyssey PC 680. Any insight you gentlemen have is greatly appreciated. I'm kind of a newbie to the first gen so go easy on me please. Thanks Big Mark Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Condor Posted March 18, 2009 Share #2 Posted March 18, 2009 Hi guys, Just wondering if anyone on here has tried the MegaMax gel battery that is for sale on E Bay? It's advertised as direct fit for the first gen which sounds good but I'm just wondering if it's worth saving the $35 or so as compared to the Odyssey PC 680. Any insight you gentlemen have is greatly appreciated. I'm kind of a newbie to the first gen so go easy on me please. Thanks Big Mark Hi Mark, My experience with Gel Batteries is that they are very fragile, and if they start to boil the bubbles will become suspended in the gel and they will lose the ability to transfer ions from the plates to the anodes. AGM is the way to go. The Odyssey is the king of the batts so far, but there's a new kid on the block that I, and a coulple of other members are going to give a try. http://www.bigcrank.com/ A couple of things that they claim are the CCI's being better than the Odyssey and the footprint being the same as the OEM series 18 battery. I ordered one and it's in transit. Hang loose and more will be posted. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Yammer Dan Posted March 18, 2009 Share #3 Posted March 18, 2009 Yeah I think there is more than one watching this. If it just gets off to a good start I think I'll try it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Snaggletooth Posted March 18, 2009 Share #4 Posted March 18, 2009 Awaiting the verdit on this myself. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KarlS Posted March 18, 2009 Share #5 Posted March 18, 2009 AGM and jel batteries are the exact same thing. http://www.ebatteriestogo.com/Motorcycle_Batteries.htm. This web site will explain that it's different name for the same battery. If you go to any battery web site and e-mail them to ask what the difference is they will tell you they are the same. When "jel" deep cycle batteries first came out around 1985 they were different then they are now. The AGM was a improved type of jel battery and all AGM or jel batteries now are the same. I used to sell the jel batteries when they first came out and a lot of them came back until they improved to what they are now. Mostly because at that time it took a better charging system to keep them up to full charge. They came out in deep cycle first for marine use because of all the bouncing a boat battery takes. They last much longer and will take a beating. Not trying to cause trouble, just passing along what I know. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BigBoyinMS Posted March 18, 2009 Share #6 Posted March 18, 2009 Just ordered a battery for my '07 from the local Interstate warehouse. (Since they deliver to us and I get a goood discount.) They say it's AGM also. Part# CYTX20HL-BS if anyone is interested. Their description for the battery is: CYCLE-TRON II HIGH PERFORMANCE - 310 CCA - 18 AH Cycle-Tron II batteries have Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) technology with a sealed case, spill-proof design, and an acid pack. Absorgbed Glass Mat (AGM) technology is an advanced battery design that eliminates water loss. Once it is filled with acid, the battery is permanently sealed so you'll never have to fill it with water or check the acid level. Lead calcium technology means the high performance AGM generates more power, requires less maintenance, and lasts longer than any other AGM battery. Hmmm? Just noticed... The BigCrank site listed the Oddyssey at 185 CCA and the BigCrank at 270 CCA. The Interstate Cycle-Tron at 310 CCA! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Condor Posted March 18, 2009 Share #7 Posted March 18, 2009 AGM and jel batteries are the exact same thing. http://www.ebatteriestogo.com/Motorcycle_Batteries.htm. . Seems there are those that will disagree with you. http://www.vonwentzel.net/Battery/01.Type/index.html http://www.batterystuff.com/tutorial_battery_gel_agm.html And there's a bunch more. Do a Google search on 'agm vs. gel battery' There isn't any gel in an AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) battery. They are not the same. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BigMark7 Posted March 19, 2009 Author Share #8 Posted March 19, 2009 Thanks for all the input. Didn't mean to start a war, I just wanted to get some opinions. I think after doing some research and hearing what you gentlemen have to say I'm going to give the new kid (Big Crank) a shot too. I'll let you all know how it works out. Thanks again to all. Big Mark Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KarlS Posted March 19, 2009 Share #9 Posted March 19, 2009 Seems there are those that will disagree with you. http://www.vonwentzel.net/Battery/01.Type/index.html http://www.batterystuff.com/tutorial_battery_gel_agm.html And there's a bunch more. Do a Google search on 'agm vs. gel battery' There isn't any gel in an AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) battery. They are not the same. I agree the sites you listed says they are not the same and offer proof. I stand corrected. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
greg_in_london Posted March 19, 2009 Share #10 Posted March 19, 2009 I really like the sound of the BigCrank AGM battery, although I'm not convinced that they haven't confused the specs for the ETX18L and ETX20L http://www.bigcrank.com/motorcyclebatteries.mv?c=yamaha-xv12-venture-royale-battery As soon as anyone has received one and confirmed that they are the real McCoy I'llorder one, although postage over the pond might not be cheap. $74.95 does sound like it might be lower spec, but might be worth the risk, especially if it is the right size. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
okscott Posted March 20, 2009 Share #11 Posted March 20, 2009 Hi Mark, My experience with Gel Batteries is that they are very fragile, and if they start to boil the bubbles will become suspended in the gel and they will lose the ability to transfer ions from the plates to the anodes. AGM is the way to go. The Odyssey is the king of the batts so far, but there's a new kid on the block that I, and a coulple of other members are going to give a try. http://www.bigcrank.com/ A couple of things that they claim are the CCI's being better than the Odyssey and the footprint being the same as the OEM series 18 battery. I ordered one and it's in transit. Hang loose and more will be posted. How much. waiting to hear tommorrow from the local stealer if Yamaha will warranty the battery in my bike. It died today, 9 1/2 months after I bought my New 07 RSTD. I may be in the market tommorrow. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bobcat Posted March 20, 2009 Share #12 Posted March 20, 2009 ..I buy a lead/acid battery for each of my bikes and cars about every 5 years and I have NEVER had a battery failure...well, one time I went 7 years and a battery failed (my fault).. I'm not criticizing anyone but I don't get what the big deal is about gel batteries... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sylvester Posted March 20, 2009 Share #13 Posted March 20, 2009 ..I buy a lead/acid battery for each of my bikes and cars about every 5 years and I have NEVER had a battery failure...well, one time I went 7 years and a battery failed (my fault).. I'm not criticizing anyone but I don't get what the big deal is about gel batteries... That is my sentiments. The battery in my RSV is over four years old now and going strong. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Condor Posted March 20, 2009 Share #14 Posted March 20, 2009 ..I buy a lead/acid battery for each of my bikes and cars about every 5 years and I have NEVER had a battery failure...well, one time I went 7 years and a battery failed (my fault).. I'm not criticizing anyone but I don't get what the big deal is about gel batteries... First off, it's AGM not Gel. Secondly, there's absolutely nothing wrong with wet batteries, as long as you use them daily, or keep them on a battery tender when not in use. All batteries have a charge/discharge cycle rating, and it depends on the thickness of the plates and other varibles as to just how many times a battery will last. Generally one cycle is equal to a 50% discharge and recharge to full. Discharge a battery beyond the 50% discharge mark and the total cycles are reduced considerably. Some batteries are rated at 100 cycles (cheap), and others are built to last 3 to 4 times that amount (expensive). When a battery is only discharged 10%, before being recharged, a 100 cycle battery should last thru 500/10% discharge/charge cycles. Never discharge a wet cell and it will... theoretically... last forever. However, if a wet cell sits for any length of time without using it daily, or keeping a battery maintainer on it, it will discharge. If it sits for a very long time (months) you can kill it. The nice thing about AGM Batteries used in motorcycles is they can sit for long periods of time and loose very little of their charge, due to their design can deliver more amps, and can be discharged to 80% without any reduction in performance. If you get 5 years out of your wetcells, number one, they're never off a maintainer, or you use/recharge them dailey...or you are very lucky and need to spend more time at a Casino... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Yammer Dan Posted March 20, 2009 Share #15 Posted March 20, 2009 First off, it's AGM not Gel. Secondly, there's absolutely nothing wrong with wet batteries, as long as you use them daily, or keep them on a battery tender when not in use. All batteries have a charge/discharge cycle rating, and it depends on the thickness of the plates and other varibles as to just how many times a battery will last. Generally one cycle is equal to a 50% discharge and recharge to full. Discharge a battery beyond the 50% discharge mark and the total cycles are reduced considerably. Some batteries are rated at 100 cycles (cheap), and others are built to last 3 to 4 times that amount (expensive). When a battery is only discharged 10%, before being recharged, a 100 cycle battery should last thru 500/10% discharge/charge cycles. Never discharge a wet cell and it will... theoretically... last forever. However, if a wet cell sits for any length of time without using it daily, or keeping a battery maintainer on it, it will discharge. If it sits for a very long time (months) you can kill it. The nice thing about AGM Batteries used in motorcycles is they can sit for long periods of time and loose very little of their charge, due to their design can deliver more amps, and can be discharged to 80% without any reduction in performance. If you get 5 years out of your wetcells, number one, they're never off a maintainer, or you use/recharge them dailey...or you are very lucky and need to spend more time at a Casino... GOOD ONE JACK!! I think the AGM is the next one for me for my rider. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
okscott Posted March 20, 2009 Share #16 Posted March 20, 2009 How much. waiting to hear tommorrow from the local stealer if Yamaha will warranty the battery in my bike. It died today, 9 1/2 months after I bought my New 07 RSTD. I may be in the market tommorrow. Well found out late this afternoon I won't have to buy a new one. Mama Yama is going to replace mine under warranty. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Snaggletooth Posted March 21, 2009 Share #17 Posted March 21, 2009 Hey Jack. I'm upgrading to the higher output stator and have installed a digital voltmeter to keep an eye on things. I changed the rec/reg last year because of charging problems. But due to the problems I am having battery problems so I'm looking to the AGM options after everything is upgraded. So my question is the charging technology is different for the AGM isn't it? As far as a battery tender anyway. With the colder weather here I use one a lot. I'm waiting with great interest to see what your opinion is on this new battery that you ordered. May go that way if it turns out for the good. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Condor Posted March 21, 2009 Share #18 Posted March 21, 2009 (edited) The Battery arrived this afternoon from BIG CRANK. First surprise... it's made in the U.S.A. Manufactured by East Penn Manufacturing, Lyon Station, Pa., and is labled 'Deka' brand. It looks very good... not cheap..., and is the same size as the OEM 18 series battery in the 1stGens. It much larger than the Odyssey, and is rated at 330cca. Even though the packing from Big Crank left a lot to be desired, it made it without incident all the way to Calif. The anodes are kinda neat in that you can attach cables on the side using the supplied brass spacers, or on the top as usual. I'll post a couple of pics a little later on. So far I like it.... Edited March 21, 2009 by Condor Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cecdoo Posted March 21, 2009 Share #19 Posted March 21, 2009 The Battery arrived this afternoon from BIG CRANK. First surprise... it's made in the U.S.A. Manufactured by East Penn Manufacturing, Lyon Station, Pa., and is labled 'Deka' brand. It looks very good... not cheap..., and is the same size as the OEM 18 series battery in the 1stGens. It much larger than the Odyssey, and is rated at 330cca. Even though the packing from Big Crank left a lot to be desired, it made it without incident all the way to Calif. The anodes are kinda neat in that you can attach cables on the side using the supplied brass spacers, or on the top as usual. I'll post a couple of pics a little later on. So far I like it.... Deka is a few miles from me, they have been around for a long time and are a highly rated employer and company, I think you will be happy with their product. Craig Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MikeM8560 Posted March 21, 2009 Share #20 Posted March 21, 2009 . The anodes are kinda neat in that you can attach cables on the side using the supplied brass spacers, or on the top as usual. I'll post a couple of pics a little later on. So far I like it.... I installed a Harley battery a while ago It has the side connections not the top. Its a real PIA to install the cables IMO. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Condor Posted March 21, 2009 Share #21 Posted March 21, 2009 (edited) Deka is a few miles from me, they have been around for a long time and are a highly rated employer and company, I think you will be happy with their product. Craig Wonder if they have any type of direct Group buy program??? I found their website. http://www.eastpenn-deka.com/default.aspx?pageid=218 I also found a local distributor a couple of miles from me. I'll call in the AM and check pricing... This might hold true for the rest of the US, and save a bunch on shipping. Edited March 21, 2009 by Condor Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bobcat Posted March 21, 2009 Share #22 Posted March 21, 2009 If you get 5 years out of your wetcells, number one, they're never off a maintainer, or you use/recharge them dailey...or you are very lucky and need to spend more time at a Casino... Nope, I never have them on a maintainer or recharge them daily...There are times during the winter when I may not start the bikes for 2-3 weeks and they always fire right up...If I go much longer then I'll trickle charge them but thats about all.... Maybe I've used my allotment of luck on batteries and should stay out of the casinos but damn, its March Madness now, can't do that.... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Condor Posted March 21, 2009 Share #23 Posted March 21, 2009 Nope, I never have them on a maintainer or recharge them daily...There are times during the winter when I may not start the bikes for 2-3 weeks and they always fire right up...If I go much longer then I'll trickle charge them but thats about all.... Maybe I've used my allotment of luck on batteries and should stay out of the casinos but damn, its March Madness now, can't do that.... Yep, need to lay a few bets on Louisville..... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cecdoo Posted March 21, 2009 Share #24 Posted March 21, 2009 Wonder if they have any type of direct Group buy program??? I found their website. http://www.eastpenn-deka.com/default.aspx?pageid=218 I also found a local distributor a couple of miles from me. I'll call in the AM and check pricing... This might hold true for the rest of the US, and save a bunch on shipping. They have an outlet store at the plant where they will sell "Blems" to the locals, but I believe you have to go thru a distributor for a new one. Funny thing the headquarters for the Odessey battery is also located in our area, quite a few battery places around here, guess thats why our cancer rates are so high:confused24: Craig Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Condor Posted March 21, 2009 Share #25 Posted March 21, 2009 They have an outlet store at the plant where they will sell "Blems" to the locals, but I believe you have to go thru a distributor for a new one. Funny thing the headquarters for the Odessey battery is also located in our area, quite a few battery places around here, guess thats why our cancer rates are so high:confused24: Craig My latest PC680 Odyssey has a made by EnerSys, Warrenburg MO. on it. 'Bout 800 miles from LS. Maybe that's the corporate office and they're built in PA?? Anyway, I wonder what makes a 'blem', and what they get for an ETX18L??? If it's just cosmetics, I really don't care...no one sees the battery.. And BTW these batteries can be shipped via USPS Priority Flat Rate for less than $10 bucks, and it takes only 3 days coast2coast. It took a week to get the Deka from Big Crank, and it ran $19 bucks UPS. Things are getting interesting.... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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