Best Battery for Indian Motorcycles?: The Battery Experts Weigh In

The iconic look and heritage of power continue to draw people to Indian Motorcycles. Passionate riders understand that choosing the right battery for their Indian can significantly impact performance and reliability. For some, Yuasa is already a familiar name, as it is the trusted original equipment battery for many Indian models.

Indian, one of the premier American motorcycle brands, is known for quality, reliability, and endurance. 

However, riders looking to get the most out of their Indians also need a battery that matches those qualities. In this article, we’ll explore the best battery options for Indian motorcycles, including models like the Roadmaster, Chief, Chieftain, Scout, and FTR, while offering expert insights to help you make an informed choice.

Why Yuasa Batteries for Indian Motorcycles?

As mentioned above, Yuasa is the stock battery for touring-style Indians, like the Roadmaster, Pursuit,  and Chieftain, reflecting the compatibility and suitability of our batteries. Yuasa batteries have also long been trusted by Indian motorcycle owners for their superior performance, power capacity for long-distance riding, and accessory support to keep the electronics and aftermarket add-ons running as smoothly as your ride.

Whether you're looking to upgrade your battery or replace an existing one, Yuasa offers some of the most powerful options on the market, among other benefits.

Here’s why riders choose Yuasa:

  • High Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): Provides high Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) for reliable starts in all conditions.
  • Durability and Longevity: Built for durability and longevity to withstand long-distance touring.
  • Factory-Activated, Maintenance-Free AGM Technology: Factory-activated AGM technology ensures convenience and maintenance-free use.
  • Battery Options for Specific Models: Yuasa’s range of batteries caters specifically to Indian’s various models, ensuring a perfect fit.

Popular Batteries for Indian Motorcycles

Popular batteries for Indian Motorcycles, the YTX20HL, GYZ20HL, YTX14AH, and YTX14H.

If you’re riding an Indian motorcycle, there are specific battery models best suited for your bike. These include options for both touring and cruiser models, each designed to provide superior power and reliability. Here are the top batteries that Indian owners choose to put in their bike:

  • YTX20HL: As the original battery that came with your bike, it is perfect for Indian touring models, with high cold cranking amps and durability, it’s a trusted choice for long-distance riders.
  • GYZ20HL: An upgrade option for Roadmaster and Chieftain, the GYZ20HL offers even more power for those looking to enhance their bike’s performance. It’s the most powerful battery available on the market for Indians, and supports the accessories you love like lighting, audio, and GPS.
  • YTX14AH: Ideal for Indian Scout models, this battery is designed to deliver reliable power in all conditions.
  • YTX14H: This battery is the best fit for Indian FTR models, ensuring smooth and dependable starts.

Best Indian Motorcycle Models for Yuasa Batteries

Biker looks at phone ordering a Yuasa Battery for their Indian Motorcycle.

The Yuasa battery lineup covers a wide range of Indian motorcycle models, making it easy to find the right fit for your specific bike. Below are the best battery options for Indian motorcycles based on their class and year range:

  • Indian Touring Class (Roadmaster, Chieftain): YTX20HL, or upgrade to the GYZ20HL
  • Indian Touring Class (Challenger, Pursuit) YTX20HL ONLY
  • Indian Scout (Cruiser): YTX14AH
  • Indian FTR (Cruiser): YTX14H

These batteries ensure reliable starting power, especially for bikes that demand strong cranking amps. For those with more power-hungry models or who are adding accessories like GPS or lighting, upgrading to the GYZ20HL provides extra capacity and performance.

Addressing Common Pain Points

Choosing a battery for your Indian motorcycle isn’t always straightforward. Here are some common pain points Indian owners face, along with expert solutions:

  • Battery Style and Terminal Placement: One key consideration is whether your model requires a battery with an “L” in the name, which indicates that the negative terminal is on the left. Indian’s touring models require a left-side terminal, while cruisers like the Scout and FTR do not.
  • Compatibility Issues: Ensuring that you choose the right battery for your specific model and year can be confusing. Checking the specifications of your current battery, visiting the Indian Motorcycle online store or consulting with your dealer can help you confirm the right replacement option.
  • Sizing Considerations: While Yuasa offers batteries in multiple sizes to fit Indian’s various models, it’s important to double-check your current battery’s dimensions to avoid installation issues.
  • Price Point of Upgrade: While some may balk at the higher price for the most powerful battery on the market, the GYZ20HL initial cost is more than justified by the enhanced power and performance for the rider who appreciates it.

Additional Resources

Yuasa provides a variety of resources to help you care for and maintain your battery. Whether you’re looking for tips on battery maintenance, replacement guidelines, or how to extend the life of your battery, you can find the information you need on Yuasa’s website. Here are some helpful resources:

  • Selecting the Proper Vehicle Battery
  • Battery Maintenance & Storage
  • How to Extend the Life of Your Battery
  • Proper Battery Disposal

Power Your Indian Motorcycle with Yuasa

Choosing the best battery for your Indian motorcycle is essential for maintaining optimal performance and reliability. Whether you’re cruising on a Scout or touring the open road on a big bike, Yuasa batteries provide the power and dependability you need. 

With a range of options to suit different models, from the YTX20HL to the GYZ20HL, Yuasa has the right battery to keep your ride running smoothly.

Ready to upgrade or replace your battery? Check out our Find A Dealer page to locate your nearest Yuasa Battery dealer and power your Indian motorcycle with the industry's best battery.

For over 45 years, Yuasa Battery has been manufacturing powersports batteries in the United States to uncompromisingly high standards. We are the largest American manufacturer and distributor of batteries for motorcycles, snowmobiles, scooters, all-terrain vehicles, side-by-sides, and personal watercraft.

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