A motorcycle’s electrical system is one of the components that requires regular maintenance. If a motorcycle’s electrical components are damaged, the vehicle’s functionality can be disrupted and may even prevent it from starting. To properly maintain it, it’s important to understand several important components of a motorcycle’s electrical.
Motorcycle Electrical Systems That Require Routine Maintenance
The electrical components of a motorcycle consist of several parts, such as the battery, cables, coils, rectifier, and others. Each of these components has an interrelated function. Therefore, it’s crucial to properly manage your motorcycle’s electrical components to ensure optimal vehicle function.
Battery
In general, the battery stores electrical energy in the vehicle. A well-maintained battery allows the vehicle to start easily.
Therefore, be sure to regularly check the battery, including its voltage. If the battery voltage is low or below standard, charge it immediately to prevent further damage.
If the battery no longer stores electrical current, replace it immediately. For wet batteries, ensure the battery’s water level is within the indicated limits.
Coil
The coil is a motorcycle’s electrical system that generates electrical energy to power the battery. The coil ensures all of the motorcycle’s electrical needs are met.
When the coil components are functioning properly, the lights can come on, and the horn can sound loudly. In this case, coil maintenance involves keeping the engine temperature from getting too high.
Additionally, be sure to change the oil regularly to maintain a stable vehicle temperature. Also, pay attention to the motorcycle’s cooling system to ensure optimal performance.
Rectifier
The coil component has a significant impact on the battery. This is because it stabilizes the motorcycle’s electrical current.
When the coil is disturbed, the current produced is too low, causing the battery to drain quickly. Meanwhile, if the motorcycle’s electrical system draws a high current, the vehicle is at risk of overcharging. Therefore, if the rectifier shows signs of damage, such as frequent headlight failures, replace the component immediately to prevent further damage.
According to the YouTube channel TheMotorcycleMD, a faulty rectifier is indicated by a vehicle’s battery frequently dying, even after being replaced three or four times. If this occurs, ensure the voltage has risen to 15.5 volts. If the voltage is above 16 or 17 volts, there is a problem with the rectifier regulator. In this case, the rectifier cannot regulate the voltage, causing the battery to overcharge. This can cause the battery to quickly deteriorate, melt, or even explode. This problem can be resolved by replacing the rectifier and checking the cable connections from the stator to the rectifier. Loose connections can cause overheating, which can melt the connectors.
Spark Plugs
Spark plugs are an important component that requires regular maintenance. Pay attention to problems with the spark plug components, such as wear, damage, or dirt.
Damage to the spark plug components can make it difficult to start the vehicle. Some ways to maintain spark plugs include checking the electrodes, including cleaning the components for carbon deposits on the tips.
Damage to the spark plug components can also cause several easily identifiable problems. For example, the motorcycle often stalls, fuel consumption is wasteful, and the engine feels unbalanced.
Iridium or Platinum Spark Plugs: Which is Better?
Iridium spark plugs are a top-tier option, featuring electrodes made from a precious metal alloy. This type of spark plug produces a more powerful spark. When the engine is started, the spark plug optimizes fuel combustion, resulting in more fuel-efficient fuel consumption.
Meanwhile, platinum spark plugs are also made from precious metals. However, this type of spark plug is often used in more specific contexts, particularly in racing motorcycles. Generally, these spark plugs are used in motorcycles that have undergone significant performance upgrades. Interestingly, spark plugs can protect digital devices, such as the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) in modern injection motorcycles.
So, which spark plug is superior? As explained previously, iridium and platinum spark plugs each have their advantages. However, specifically for racing motorcycles, platinum is the most appropriate spark plug.
A motorcycle’s electrical system requires regular maintenance. Check several important components, such as the coil, spark plugs, rectifier, and battery. /Siti
