Harley-Davidson Sportster XL1200X Forty-Eight - Owner's Manual > Type

Your motorcycle uses an Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) battery. The AGM battery is permanently sealed, valve regulated, maintenance-free, lead/calcium and sulfuric acid battery. All batteries are shipped precharged and ready for service. Do not attempt to open the battery for any reason.

Antidotes for Battery Acid

Batteries contain sulfuric acid, which could cause severe burns to eyes and skin. Wear a protective face shield, rubberized gloves and protective clothing when working with batteries.

KEEP BATTERIES AWAY FROM CHILDREN.

Explosive hydrogen gas, which escapes during charging, could cause death or serious injury.

Charge battery in a well-ventilated area. Keep open flames, electrical sparks away from battery at all times. KEEP BATTERIES AWAY FROM CHILDREN.

Batteries, battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, and other chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

Never remove warning label attached to top of battery. Failure to read and understand all precautions contained in warning, could result in death or serious injury.

Battery Warning Label

Battery Warning Label

1. Contents are corrosive
2. Wear safety glasses
3. Contents are explosive
4. Keep flames away
5. Read instructions
6. Keep away from children

Voltmeter Test

The voltmeter test provides a general indicator of battery condition. Check the voltage of the battery to verify that it is in a 100 percent fully charged condition. If the open circuit (disconnected) voltage reading is below 12.7 V, charge the battery. Recheck the voltage after the battery has set for one to two hours. Refer to Voltmeter Test.

Voltmeter Test

Cleaning and Inspection

Battery top must be clean and dry. Dirt and electrolyte on top of the battery can cause battery to self-discharge.

1. Clean battery top.

2. Clean cable connectors and battery terminals using a wire brush or fine grit sandpaper to remove any oxidation.

3. Inspect and clean the battery screws, clamps and cables. Check for breakage, loose connections and corrosion.

4. Check the battery posts for melting or damage caused by over-tightening.

5. Inspect the battery for discoloration, a raised top or a warped or distorted case. These conditions might indicate that the battery has been frozen, overheated or overcharged.

6. Inspect the battery case for cracks or leaks.

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