Can a 24V Battery Be Used for Motorcycles?
2 Answers
Motorcycles cannot use a 24V battery. The electrical components and charging system of a motorcycle are designed to operate at a stable voltage. If the voltage is increased arbitrarily, it may cause minor issues like blown fuses or severe problems such as complete electrical system failure. Normal voltage for motorcycles: Motorcycle batteries typically operate at 12V. The charging voltage must be higher than the battery voltage to charge it effectively, usually following a 7:6 ratio. Based on this formula, a 12V battery requires a charging voltage of around 14V, whether from the motorcycle's magneto or an external battery charger. Power output of motorcycles: The alternator (magneto) on the engine's flywheel generates AC power only when the motorcycle engine is running. The output voltage generally ranges between 8-18V, with a power output typically around 20-80W.
I remember the last time I replaced the motorcycle battery, thinking that using a 24-volt one would improve starting power. After installation, all the lights burned out, and the engine computer threw errors. I quickly disconnected it and went for a check. The mechanic said the motorcycle system was designed for 12 volts, and the higher voltage would fry the electrical components, with short circuits making things worse. Now I’ve learned my lesson—I always check the factory manual when replacing the battery to ensure it’s the standard 12-volt version, ensuring smooth and safe starts. Some friends pursue high performance and try modifications, but voltage mismatches carry too much risk—it’s better to play it safe. After all, when riding on the road, stability is what matters most.
