1. Power Surge:
- During starting, the battery supplies a high surge of current to the motorcycle's starter motor.
- This current draw can be several hundred amps, depending on the motorcycle's engine size and the starter motor's requirements.
2. Voltage Drop:
- As the battery provides the high current surge, there's a temporary voltage drop in the electrical system.
- The battery's voltage may dip below 12 volts during this cranking process.
3. Chemical Reactions:
- The chemical reactions within the battery accelerate as it discharges the high current to the starter motor.
- Lead-acid batteries, which are commonly used in motorcycles, undergo rapid conversion of lead sulfate to lead and sulfuric acid.
4. Current Flow:
- Once the engine starts, the motorcycle's charging system takes over to replenish the battery's discharged energy.
- The alternator or generator produces alternating current (AC), which is then rectified to direct current (DC) and fed back into the battery.
5. Recharging:
- As the motorcycle continues to run, the charging system provides a steady flow of current to recharge the battery.
- The battery voltage rises back to normal levels (typically around 12.6 volts) as it regains its stored chemical energy.
6. Voltage Regulation:
- The motorcycle's voltage regulator ensures that the battery does not overcharge by controlling the charging current.
- It regulates the voltage output of the charging system to prevent damage to the battery and other electrical components.
7. Battery Maintenance:
- Over time, repeated discharge and recharge cycles can lead to gradual battery wear.
- Proper battery maintenance, such as regular cleaning of terminals, ensuring adequate electrolyte levels (for wet-cell batteries), and avoiding deep discharges, can extend battery life.
8. Lifespan:
- Motorcycle batteries typically have a lifespan of 2-4 years, depending on factors like usage, climate, and proper maintenance practices.
Overall, when a motorcycle is started, the battery supplies a high current surge to the starter motor, leading to a temporary voltage drop. As the engine runs, the charging system recharges the battery, ensuring a continuous supply of power for the motorcycle's electrical needs.
