Are you speaking of lithium ion or lithium iron? They are not the same thing.
Shorai is one manufacturer making lithium iron batteries. I bought the bullet and installed one in a DR-650 and one in a DR-Z400.
They are indeed *very* light and compact. Almost surprisingly so but that is in comparison with what we are used to.
I did read about the negative performance in cold weather. I can attest that I was starting the DR-Z well below freezing. Apparently they like to "warm up" -- i.e. run something with a draw for a few minutes (lights, grip heaters) and then fire it up. I was also a little surprised at how much cranking power I could get out if it when the bike was slow to start after sitting for several weeks. I suspect that the previous lead acid battery would have been drained at this point, or at least start to feel this way.
Anyways, I am definitely not trying to make a sales pitch.
That said, neither of these bikes have big adventures planned for them in their near future. *Personally* I don't feel that verdict is out yet. I have been pretty happy with the AGM battery in my KLR and its still works well after several years including a trip lasting several months.
I would love to hear feedback from others.
Adam
|