The YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS are sealed lead-acid batteries designed for powersports vehicles. The YTX20L-BS delivers 18Ah capacity and 310 cold cranking amps (CCA), ideal for motorcycles, ATVs, and jet skis. The YTX20HL-BS, with a taller profile, offers 20Ah and 350 CCA, suited for high-demand applications like touring bikes or snowmobiles requiring extended power in cold climates.
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How Do YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS Differ in Performance and Compatibility?
Key differences include:
- Size: YTX20HL-BS is 15mm taller (225mm vs 210mm).
- Capacity: YTX20HL-BS provides 10% higher reserve capacity (20Ah vs 18Ah).
- CCA: YTX20HL-BS offers 40 additional cold cranking amps.
- Compatibility: YTX20L-BS fits Honda Shadow, Yamaha V-Star; YTX20HL-BS suits Harley-Davidson Touring models.
The increased CCA rating of the YTX20HL-BS makes it particularly effective for cold-weather operation where engine oil viscosity increases. This battery maintains stable voltage output during prolonged accessory use, such as powering heated seats or auxiliary lighting systems. The taller design also allows for thicker internal plates, enhancing durability during frequent charge/discharge cycles. However, the size difference requires careful verification of battery tray dimensions – installing the YTX20HL-BS in compartments designed for the shorter YTX20L-BS may cause terminal contact issues or housing damage.
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| Product Name | Short Description | Amazon URL |
|---|---|---|
|
Weize YTX14 BS ATV Battery  |
Maintenance-free sealed AGM battery, compatible with various motorcycles and powersports vehicles. | View on Amazon |
|
UPLUS ATV Battery YTX14AH-BS  |
Sealed AGM battery designed for ATVs, UTVs, and motorcycles, offering reliable performance. | View on Amazon |
|
Weize YTX20L-BS High Performance  |
High-performance sealed AGM battery suitable for motorcycles and snowmobiles. | View on Amazon |
|
Mighty Max Battery ML-U1-CCAHR  |
Rechargeable SLA AGM battery with 320 CCA, ideal for various powersport applications. | View on Amazon |
|
Battanux 12N9-BS Motorcycle Battery  |
Sealed SLA/AGM battery for ATVs and motorcycles, maintenance-free with advanced technology. | View on Amazon |
| Feature | YTX20L-BS | YTX20HL-BS |
|---|---|---|
| Ideal Temperature Range | 32°F to 104°F | -4°F to 122°F |
| Vibration Resistance | Standard | Reinforced |
Which Vehicles Use YTX20L-BS or YTX20HL-BS Batteries?
Common vehicles for YTX20L-BS:
- Honda VT750/1300
- Kawasaki Vulcan 900
- Suzuki Boulevard C90
For YTX20HL-BS:
- Harley-Davidson Electra Glide
- BMW R 1200 RT
- Arctic Cat snowmobiles
When selecting between these batteries, consider electrical load requirements. The YTX20HL-BS is mandatory for vehicles with stock configurations exceeding 500W accessory loads. Some modern adventure bikes like the KTM 1290 Super Duke require battery certifications for onboard electronics compatibility – always check OEM specifications. Hybrid models combining combustion engines and electric starters often need the YTX20HL-BS’s enhanced cycling capacity to handle dual ignition systems.
What Are the Best Equivalents and Alternatives to These Batteries?
Top equivalents include:
- YTX20L-BS: Mighty Max ML35-12, Chrome Battery YTX20L-BS
- YTX20HL-BS: Odyssey PC680, BatteryStuff YTX20HL-BS
Lithium alternatives like Shorai LFX36L3-BS12 reduce weight by 70% but cost 3x more. AGM batteries provide spill-proof reliability, while gel types excel in vibration resistance.
How to Properly Maintain and Extend the Life of These Batteries?
• Use a smart charger (e.g., NOCO Genius 5) monthly during storage.
• Keep terminals clean with baking soda paste.
• Store at 50-80% charge in temperatures below 95°F (35°C).
• Check voltage regularly: 12.6V (full), below 12.2V requires charging.
Expert Views
“The YTX20HL-BS’s taller design allows for thicker lead plates, crucial for handling the electrical demands of modern touring bikes with heated grips and GPS systems. Always match the battery’s CCA rating to the manufacturer’s spec—underpowered units fail prematurely in cold starts.” — PowerSports Battery Specialist, 12+ years in OEM battery engineering.
Conclusion
Choosing between YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS hinges on vehicle requirements and climate conditions. While equivalents offer cost savings, OEM batteries ensure precise fitment. Regular maintenance extends lifespan by 2-3 years, making proper care critical for reliability.
FAQ
- Q: Can I use YTX20HL-BS instead of YTX20L-BS?
- A: Only if the battery compartment accommodates its taller height (225mm vs 210mm). Verify clearance and terminal alignment first.
- Q: How long do these batteries typically last?
- A: 3-5 years with proper maintenance. Frequent deep discharges reduce lifespan to 1-2 years.
- Q: Are lithium batteries better than AGM for these models?
- A: Lithium excels in weight savings and cold performance but lacks cost-effectiveness for infrequently used vehicles.