6 Best External Battery Mounts For Motorcycle Handlebars
Keep your devices charged on every ride. Explore our top 6 picks for the best external battery mounts for motorcycle handlebars and secure your power today.
The hum of a long-distance engine is often accompanied by the constant anxiety of a dying GPS or phone battery. Without a reliable power source securely attached to the handlebars, mid-ride navigation becomes a gamble rather than a pleasure. Securing an external battery is the most practical solution for maintaining connectivity on everything from short canyon blasts to multi-day cross-country tours.
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RAM Mounts X-Grip Universal Battery Holder
The RAM Mounts X-Grip is the industry standard for versatility, relying on a clever spring-loaded design that adjusts to almost any power bank dimension. Its rubberized fingers grip the battery tightly, ensuring that even on rough fire roads or washboard surfaces, the power source remains locked in place. This mount is ideal for riders who frequently swap between different devices or battery sizes.
However, the X-Grip does require a bit of manual setup to ensure the rubber tips do not inadvertently press the power bank’s buttons. If the aesthetic of exposed arms bothers you, or if you prefer a sleeker integrated look, this might feel a bit utilitarian. For those prioritizing universal fitment and long-term durability over a streamlined look, this remains the most reliable choice.
Tackform Enduro Heavy Duty Power Bank Mount
When the ride involves aggressive terrain or high-speed highway touring, the Tackform Enduro offers a level of security that few competitors can match. Constructed from high-grade aluminum rather than plastics, it resists the fatigue that leads to mounts snapping over time. Its cradle design is purpose-built to hold rectangular battery packs with industrial-strength tension.
This mount is best suited for adventure riders who subject their gear to constant vibration and unpredictable road conditions. It is heavier and more cumbersome to install than entry-level options, but the trade-off is total peace of mind regarding equipment retention. Choose this if your priority is durability above all else on demanding routes.
SP Connect Moto Mount Pro For Power Banks
SP Connect stands out for those who value a clean, low-profile cockpit setup that doesn’t clutter the handlebars. By using a patented twist-to-lock mechanism, the system allows for rapid attachment and removal of the battery pack when stopping for fuel or breaks. The build quality is exceptional, featuring aerospace-grade materials that look refined on any bike.
The primary limitation here is that you will need to utilize their proprietary adhesive or mounting plates on your specific battery pack. This creates a semi-permanent bond, meaning the system is less flexible if you switch batteries frequently. If you are an urban commuter or a sport-tourer who appreciates precision engineering, this is the superior option.
Kuryakyn Tech-Connect Handlebar Mount Kit
The Kuryakyn Tech-Connect is a classic choice for cruiser riders who prefer a mount that blends into the chrome-heavy aesthetic of their machine. It features an adjustable cradle that tightens via a simple thumb screw, allowing for a secure fit without the need for specialized tools. It offers enough adjustability to accommodate a wide variety of portable charging bricks.
While it lacks the modern, tactical appearance of newer composite mounts, its mechanical reliability is proven over years of real-world use. It is a fantastic option for riders who don’t want to overthink their setup and just need a reliable way to keep a phone charged during long weekend rides. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense piece of hardware.
GUB Aluminum Motorcycle Power Bank Holder
Budget-conscious riders often find that the GUB Aluminum holder provides the best value-to-performance ratio on the market. Machined from a single block of aluminum, it feels surprisingly robust for its price point and includes an adjustable side screw to lock the battery in place. It effectively eliminates the plastic fatigue common in cheaper generic mounts.
This mount is perfect for the occasional adventurer who doesn’t want to invest heavily in premium branding. While it may lack the refined finish or quick-release features of more expensive counterparts, it performs the core task of keeping a battery pack secure under normal riding conditions. It is a highly practical choice for weekend warriors and casual travelers.
SW-MOTECH Universal Handlebar Clamp Mount
SW-MOTECH is renowned for creating high-end luggage and mounting systems, and their universal clamp mount is no exception to this reputation for quality. It offers a unique pivot-and-lock system that allows the rider to adjust the viewing angle of the battery or connected device. The build is exceptionally sturdy, engineered to handle the high-frequency vibrations of a single-cylinder engine.
This is a premium product designed for long-distance tourers who expect their gear to last the life of the motorcycle. Installation can be slightly more involved than simple strap-on mounts, requiring a careful balance of the handlebar clamp. If you are preparing for a multi-week expedition, this mount provides the structural integrity required to keep your gear safe through thousands of miles.
Cable Management Tips For Highway Riding
High-speed wind is the enemy of loose cables, which can whip against the bike frame and cause damage or become an unwanted distraction. Always use high-quality zip ties or silicone cable wraps to secure charging cords against the handlebars or steering stem. Ensuring there is just enough “slack” for the handlebars to turn lock-to-lock without pulling the plug is the most important step for safety.
- Keep cables away from hot engine components to prevent melting.
- Use coiled cords to manage excess length automatically.
- Check cable strain relief points regularly during gas station stops.
Weatherproofing Your External Power Setup
Motorcycle riding exposes electronics to rain, road spray, and dust, all of which are detrimental to charging ports. If the battery mount does not have a built-in cover, consider placing the battery inside a small, water-resistant accessory pouch secured to the mount. Applying a dab of dielectric grease to your charging ports can also prevent corrosion from moisture ingress over time.
Always ensure the cables are routed so that water drips away from the ports rather than running directly into them. A small loop in the cable—often called a “drip loop”—before it enters the device can prevent water from traveling down the wire and into the connection. When parking in heavy downpours, removing the battery entirely is the only way to guarantee safety.
Preventing Battery Damage From Vibrations
Constant vibration from the motorcycle frame can loosen internal battery connections or degrade the exterior housing of a power bank. If your mount does not come with integrated rubber dampeners, consider adding a thin strip of high-density foam or rubber padding between the mount and the battery. This simple buffer absorbs high-frequency vibrations that would otherwise rattle the battery’s internal cells.
- Avoid mounting the battery in high-vibration zones near the engine mount bolts.
- Check the security of the mount’s fasteners after every 500 miles of riding.
- Tighten the cradle firmly, but avoid overtightening, which can lead to stress cracks in plastic housings.
Matching Mount Dimensions To Your Battery
Before committing to a mount, measure both the width and depth of your power bank precisely. Many riders make the mistake of buying a mount that fits the width of the battery but fails to secure the thickness, leading to a precarious hold. Always verify the maximum opening capacity of the mount to ensure it can accommodate the girth of your specific battery, especially if you use an extended-capacity, high-mAh unit.
If you plan to switch to a larger or smaller battery in the future, opt for an adjustable tension mount rather than a rigid cradle. Investing in a mount with adjustable side arms will save you the cost of replacing your hardware when your tech needs inevitably evolve. A properly sized fit is the difference between a secure battery and a mid-ride mechanical failure.
Choosing the right mounting solution transforms your motorcycle from a simple machine into a fully supported expedition vehicle. By carefully considering the vibrations, weather, and cable management needs of your specific bike, you ensure that your power source remains as reliable as your engine. Get your setup dialed in, pack your gear, and enjoy the freedom of the open road with total confidence in your equipment.
