Lead Acid vs Lithium Iron Phosphate: Which is the Best Powersport Battery?

Power - by Bryan Veldboom - updated on 9/11/2023

Consumers have a number of options when looking to replace the batteries in their motorcycles, snowmobiles, ATVs or other powersport applications. Two of the most popular choices are lead acid and lithium iron phosphate batteries. Batteries Plus offers lead acid and lithium batteries from top brands like Duracell Ultra and our exclusive X2Power brand. Let's take a look at how these two types of batteries differ in terms of life cycle, performance and charging times.

Which Battery Lasts Longer, Lead Acid or Lithium?

• Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries can last up to 2000 cycles.
• Lead acid batteries can last up to 1000 cycles.

Do Lithium Batteries Charge Faster?

• Lithium batteries charge around 3X faster than lead acid batteries.

Can Lithium Batteries Be Mounted In Any Position?

• Flooded lead acid batteries contain a liquid electrolyte and must be mounted in an upright position.
• AGM lead acid batteries can be mounted upright or on their side, but should not be mounted upside down.
• Lithium batteries can be mounted in any direction, even upside down.

Are Lead Acid Batteries Heavier Than Lithium Batteries?

• Lithium powersport batteries are approx. 55% lighter than lead acid batteries.

What is the Self-Discharge Rate of a Lithium Battery Compared to Lead Acid?

• A lead acid battery has a relatively high self-discharge rate and will need to be maintained with a battery maintainer while in storage.
• Lithium batteries have a very low self-discharge rate and will hold onto their charge for much longer during storage.

Can Lithium Batteries Become Sulfated or Corroded?

• Lead acid batteries are susceptible to both sulfation and corrosion.
• Lithium batteries do not sulfate or corrode.

Are Lithium Batteries Safer Than Lead Acid Batteries?

• Lithium iron phosphate batteries have excellent chemical and thermal stability, which helps them to remain cool in higher temperatures.
• Our X2Power lithium powersport batteries have an integrated management system that monitors and reacts to voltage, current and temperature, helping to maximize performance, battery life and safety.

Can Lithium Batteries Handle Cold?

• Lithium iron phosphate batteries can not be charged in a temperature of 32℉ or below.
• Lead acid batteries can be charged in temperatures down to -4℉.

What is the Cost Difference Between a Lead Acid and Lithium Battery?

• Lead acid batteries are more affordable than lithium batteries.
• A lithium battery will cost approx. 10-25% more than a lead acid battery.

Batteries Plus is Your Powersport Batteries Headquarters

As you can see, lithium batteries have a number of advantages over lead acid options, but cost more upfront. In most cases, the additional expense is worth it, however, that doesn't mean you need to purchase a lithium battery. Lead acid batteries are still the standard battery choice for most powersport vehicle owners.

Lead acid batteries are also a much better option for snowmobiles, since they're not limited by the same charging restrictions that lithium batteries have in cold weather. Not sure which battery is best for your needs? The experts at your nearest Batteries Plus will be happy to answer your questions and offer a recommendation.