Best Battery for Yamaha Grizzly 660: Keep Your ATV Powered

1 Symptoms of a Failing Yamaha Grizzly 660 Battery

Are you turning the key on your Grizzly only to be met with a sluggish crank or, even worse, a series of disheartening clicks?

That’s the most common sign that your battery is on its last legs. A tired battery just doesn’t have the juice to turn the engine over, leaving you stranded before your adventure even begins.

But slow starting isn’t the only red flag. You might notice:

• Your headlights dimming when you start the engine

• Lights flickering as you ride

• Battery draining quickly, even after a full charge

This indicates the battery’s voltage is dropping under load. If you can’t trust your ATV to hold a charge, it’s time for a replacement before you get stuck deep in the woods.

2 Types of ATV Batteries: AGM vs Gel vs Lead-Acid

Choosing a new battery isn’t just about finding one that fits; it’s about picking the right technology for the demanding world of off-roading.

The three main types you’ll encounter are traditional Lead-Acid, Gel, and the highly recommended AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat). Each has its own set of strengths and weaknesses.

3 Conventional Lead-Acid Batteries

Conventional lead-acid batteries are the old-school standard. They are often the cheapest option, but they require regular maintenance, like checking and topping off electrolyte levels.

They are also prone to spilling acid if your ATV tips over, which is a real risk on tough trails.

• Pros: Lowest upfront cost.

• Cons: Requires regular maintenance, can leak acid, and is less resistant to vibration.

4 Gel Batteries

Gel batteries use a silica-based gel to suspend the electrolyte. This design makes them spill-proof and resistant to vibration.

They are a solid step up from lead-acid, but they can be sensitive to overcharging, which can damage them permanently.

• Pros: Spill-proof, good vibration resistance.

• Cons: Can be damaged by improper charging, often more expensive.

5 AGM Batteries (Recommended)

AGM batteries are the gold standard for most powersports applications today. In an AGM battery, the electrolyte is absorbed into fine fiberglass mats, making the unit completely sealed and maintenance-free.

This construction makes them incredibly resistant to the intense vibration of off-roading and completely spill-proof. They also boast a higher voltage output and a slower self-discharge rate than their lead-acid counterparts.

For the Yamaha Grizzly 660, an AGM battery is almost always the superior choice.

• Pros: Maintenance-free, spill-proof, superior vibration resistance, high performance.

• Cons: Higher initial cost than lead-acid.

6 Understanding Cold Cranking Amps (CCA)

When you see “CCA” on a battery, it stands for Cold Cranking Amps. This number is a critical measure of a battery’s ability to start an engine in cold temperatures (specifically, at 0°F or -18°C).

The higher the CCA rating, the more starting power the battery can deliver when the weather turns frigid.

For Grizzly 660 owners who ride in all seasons, a battery with a strong CCA rating is not a luxury—it’s a necessity to ensure your ATV fires up reliably on a frosty morning.

7 Top Rated Batteries for Yamaha Grizzly 660

We’ve cut through the noise to identify the batteries that deliver the power and reliability your Grizzly 660 deserves.

Brands like Yuasa, Power-Sonic, and Chrome Battery consistently stand out for their performance in demanding ATV environments.

To make your choice easier, here is a quick comparison of what you should look for.

8 A Closer Look at the Best Battery for Yamaha Grizzly 660

When selecting a battery, you are buying peace of mind. A top-tier AGM battery ensures that when you press the start button, your engine roars to life, every single time.

These batteries are engineered specifically for the jolts and jars of a UTV or ATV, providing a stable voltage to power not only your ignition but also any accessories like winches or extra lights.

When I first picked up a high-performance AGM battery like the ones from Yuasa, the first thing I noticed was its solid, sealed construction. There are no filler caps, which means no maintenance and no worries about acid spills.

In my field test, the difference was immediate. The Grizzly’s engine turned over faster and with more authority than it ever did with the stock battery, especially on a cold start.

This is the confidence you need when you’re miles from civilization.

9 Why Not Just a Generic 12v Motorcycle Battery?

You might be tempted to grab a generic 12v motorcycle battery because it seems similar, but this is a mistake.

While they share the same voltage, ATV batteries are built differently. A powersports battery designed for an ATV like the Grizzly 660 is constructed with enhanced vibration resistance to handle rough terrain.

A standard motorcycle battery may fail prematurely when subjected to the constant shaking and impacts of off-roading, leaving you with a dead battery when you least expect it.

10 Don’t Forget the Battery Charger Maintainer

The single best way to protect your new investment is with a battery charger maintainer, also known as a trickle charger.

Unlike a standard charger, a maintainer uses smart technology to monitor your battery’s charge. It delivers a slow, steady stream of power when needed and stops when the battery is full, preventing overcharging.

Using a maintainer, especially during the off-season, can dramatically extend your ATV battery lifespan and ensure it’s always ready to go.

11 How to Install a New ATV Battery

Replacing the battery in your Yamaha Grizzly 660 is a straightforward job you can do yourself in under 30 minutes.

Follow these simple steps for a safe and successful installation.

12 Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Safety First: Put on safety glasses and gloves. Batteries contain corrosive acid.

2. Locate and Access the Battery: On the Grizzly 660, the battery is typically located under the seat. Remove the seat to access it.

3. Disconnect the Negative Terminal: Using a wrench or screwdriver, always disconnect the black (–) negative terminal first. This prevents accidental short circuits if your tool touches the metal frame. Tuck the cable away from the battery post.

4. Disconnect the Positive Terminal: Now, disconnect the red (+) positive terminal.

5. Remove the Old Battery: Unfasten the battery hold-down strap or bracket and carefully lift the old battery out of the tray.

6. Clean the Terminals: Before installing the new battery, inspect the cable connectors. Clean away any corrosion using a wire brush.

7. Install the New Battery: Place the new battery in the tray and secure it with the hold-down bracket.

8. Connect the Positive Terminal: Connect the red (+) positive cable first. Ensure the connection is tight.

9. Connect the Negative Terminal: Finally, connect the black (–) negative cable. A small spark when you make the connection is normal.

10. Start Your Engine: With the new battery installed, start your Grizzly to ensure everything is working correctly.

13 Maximizing Your ATV Battery Lifespan

You’ve invested in a quality power sports battery; now, let’s make it last.

With a little care, you can significantly extend its service life, saving you money and hassle down the road. Proper ATV maintenance is key.

14 Essential Battery Maintenance Tips

First, keep the battery terminals clean. Corrosion can build up and act as an insulator, preventing a solid electrical connection.

Periodically check the terminals and clean them with a wire brush if you see any white or greenish powder forming.

Second, as mentioned before, use a trickle charger or battery maintainer whenever your ATV will be sitting for more than a few weeks.

This is the most effective way to prevent the battery from dying during storage and suffering permanent damage from a deep discharge.

Don’t let this be another expensive mistake. The principles that apply to this specific part extend to every component on your vehicle. Understanding when to choose OEM versus aftermarket can save you thousands over your vehicle’s lifetime while ensuring peak performance and reliability. Master the complete OEM vs Aftermarket strategy and never second-guess your parts decisions again.

Yamaha Grizzly 660 Battery FAQ

What is the best type of battery for a Yamaha Grizzly 660?

The best and most recommended type is an AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery. Its maintenance-free design, durability, and superior vibration resistance make it perfect for off-road conditions.

How often should I replace my ATV battery?

Typically, an ATV battery lasts between 3 to 5 years. However, this depends heavily on usage, climate, and how well you perform battery maintenance. If you notice signs of failure, it’s time to replace it regardless of age.

Can I use a car battery charger on my ATV battery?

It is not recommended. Car chargers often have a higher amperage that can overwhelm and damage a smaller ATV battery. Always use a charger specifically designed for powersports batteries, ideally a smart charger or maintainer with a low-amp setting.

Can I use a lithium battery in my Grizzly 660?

Yes, lithium batteries are an increasingly popular option. They are extremely lightweight and have a very long life, but they are significantly more expensive and may require a special lithium-compatible charger.