Yamaha Zuma Battery | BikeMaster Trugel Battery MG5L-BS

For most motorcycle or scooter riders finding a reliable long lasting battery can be a challenge. For my 2005 Yamaha Zuma the stock battery lasted about a year and I just kick started it for the next several years.

I finally have replaced the battery with a gel based BikeMaster Trugel MG5L-BS battery and thus far it's been a great battery. See the photos at right for some un-boxing images as well as comparisons to the old battery and installation in the Zuma.

Below is a run down (albeit some from the manufacturer) of the supposed benefits of using a gel electrolyte instead of a liquid. I can report that the battery came fully charged and fits perfectly for my application, I'll report back on the longevity but the 2 year warranty is a nice reassurance. I spent the few extra dollars in order to get the better cold weather performance and the durability (see the video at bottom ... insane!).

• Has a life span that can be up to twice that of a wet battery
• Resists vibration and impacts which damage regular wet batteries
• Works better at lower and higher temperatures than a wet battery
• Won't leak, even if the case cracks (see video below)
• Can be installed at any angle
• Always maintains contact with all of the plates, giving more cranking power and longer life
• Will not sulfate like a wet battery
• 2-year manufacturer's warranty