Not all batteries sold for motorcycles have the same chemistry or operating function. SNI 4326:2025 is the relevant technical standard for lead-acid batteries within category L, particularly for starting, ignition and lighting functions.
Category L applications
Category L covers motorcycles and certain three-wheelers under vehicle classification rules. The draft addresses 6 V or 12 V lead-acid batteries for starting, lighting and ignition. Certain ATV, jet ski and specialized vehicle applications are also discussed with scope conditions.
E-bike traction batteries and dissimilar backup-power batteries should not automatically be treated as motorcycle starter batteries.
Flooded and VRLA technology
The proposed scheme separates flooded batteries, high-performance flooded batteries and valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) batteries. Commercial expressions such as maintenance-free or dry battery do not always identify the technical category accurately.
Provide model designation, chemistry, capacity, voltage, dimensions, terminal layout and battery technology for each model.
C10 capacity and representative grouping
For category L, the draft distinguishes capacity groups at 7 Ah using the 10-hour capacity rating (C10): up to 7 Ah and above 7 Ah. Those bands apply within the corresponding technology classifications.
Brand and representative sampling rules must still be assessed, so catalogue model count alone should not determine testing cost.
Manufacturer and importer documents
Review manufacturing authorization, management-system certificates, ISO 14001, trademark evidence and any existing test reports. Overseas factories should identify their Indonesian AR and importer structure.
Legal eligibility to import is a separate consideration from battery technical classification.
Example motorcycle battery model review
A range of 12 V 5 Ah, 12 V 7 Ah and 12 V 9 Ah batteries may look similar in a catalogue. The draft, however, applies a 7 Ah capacity threshold within each technology class. A 9 Ah model therefore cannot automatically be represented by a 5 Ah or 7 Ah model.
For VRLA batteries, clarify whether the design uses AGM or gel technology and check marking and valve construction. Sampling logistics matter as well: the draft places age limits on samples since manufacture for electrolyte-filled and dry-charged conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are 7 Ah and 9 Ah models in the same capacity band?
The draft places them in different capacity bands for the same applicable technology group.
Is every motorcycle dry battery a VRLA battery?
Not automatically. Confirm battery construction and technology in the manufacturer's datasheet.
Related Reading
- SNI Certification Services for Car and Motorcycle Batteries in Indonesia
- SNI 38:2025 Car Battery Requirements in Indonesia
Automotive Battery SNI Consultation
For an initial assessment, prepare a model list and specifications, manufacturer identity, management-system certificates, trademark documents and your proposed Authorized Representative/importer arrangement. Biruni Consulting can review the documentation and identify the next regulatory steps.
Regulatory status: SNI 38:2025 and SNI 4326:2025 are BSN technical standards. Draft mandatory-SNI provisions must be verified against the enacted regulation, if any. Certification outcomes and timelines are not guaranteed.