New technologies are usually slow to be adopted, as is the case with lithium iron batteries like these Shorai lithium batteries for BMW motorcycles. You'll find similar lithium-based batteries in cell phones, laptops and a number of other products. Although the trend is changing slowly, most motorcyclists are lagging behind. The automotive industry has been slow to move on to lithium iron technology. That's why Shorai, which utilize the technology, isn't a household name. However, first-time battery users are quickly becoming converts for a number of reasons.
Lithium iron is much safer than the lead acid alternative-you won't have to worry about corrosion or an explosion. People that are used to having to jumpstart their battery after prolonged periods of nonuse will be amazed to know that Shorai batteries hold a charge for a year without requiring additional maintenance. For performance-minded people, there's also this important factor: lithium ion batteries weigh a fraction of what traditional batteries do, and every pound counts.