Everstart 14La2

As a long-time motorcycle enthusiast and weekend ATV warrior, I’ve gone through my fair share of batteries over the years. Some left me stranded on remote trails, others died after just a season of use, and a few emptied my wallet without delivering on their promises. That all changed when I discovered the Everstart 14LA2 battery about three years ago. Today, I want to share everything I’ve learned about this compact powerhouse that’s become my go-to recommendation for fellow riders.

Let me tell you why the Everstart 14LA2 offers exceptional value for powering smaller vehicles while providing reliability that rivals premium brands at a fraction of the cost.

What Exactly Is the Everstart 14LA2 Battery?

The Everstart 14LA2 is a 12-volt lead-acid battery primarily designed for motorcycles, but with versatility that extends to a range of small-engine applications. When I first came across it at my local Walmart, I was skeptical about its performance given its affordable price point. However, after installing it in my Yamaha V-Star 650, I quickly realized this battery punches well above its weight class.

As a conventional lead-acid battery, the 14LA2 comes dry from the factory with a separate acid pack that you’ll need to add before first use. This might seem intimidating if you’ve never activated a battery before, but I found the process straightforward (more on that later).

The battery’s compact size belies its power capabilities. While smaller than car batteries, it delivers reliable starting power for motorcycles, ATVs, jet skis, and other recreational vehicles that don’t require massive cranking amps. Its specific dimensions (more details coming up) make it a perfect fit for many Japanese and American motorcycles with limited battery compartment space.

Compatible Vehicles: Is This the Right Battery for Your Ride?

One of the first questions I had when considering the Everstart 14LA2 was whether it would work with my motorcycle. After extensive research and personal experience, I can confirm this battery is compatible with a wide range of vehicles, including:

• Motorcycles: Particularly cruisers and standards from Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, and Kawasaki in the 250cc to 800cc range
• ATVs: Most recreational models requiring a 12V power source
• Personal watercraft: Many Jet Skis and similar watercraft
• Small lawn and garden equipment: Riding mowers and larger garden tractors
• Snowmobiles: Select models with appropriate battery compartment dimensions

I’ve personally used the 14LA2 in my Yamaha V-Star 650, my son’s Honda Rebel 300, and surprisingly, it even fit perfectly in my neighbor’s Sea-Doo Spark. The versatility of this battery is one of its strongest selling points.

The key is checking your vehicle’s battery compartment dimensions and required specifications before purchase. While the 14LA2 fits many applications, vehicles requiring higher cold cranking amps or different terminal configurations might need alternative options.

Specifications: Breaking Down the Numbers

Let’s get technical for a moment. Understanding the specifications of the Everstart 14LA2 helped me determine if it was suitable for my needs, and it’ll help you too. Here’s what you need to know:

• Voltage: 12 volts (standard for most small vehicles)
• Capacity: 12 Amp-hours (Ah), sufficient for most motorcycles and ATVs
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 190 CCA (adequate for engines up to about 800cc in warm to moderate climates)
• Dimensions: Approximately 5.2″ L × 3.5″ W × 6.5″ H (including terminals)
• Weight: About 9 pounds when filled with acid
• Terminal Configuration: Standard positive right, negative left orientation
• Chemistry: Conventional lead-acid (requires activation with battery acid)
• Maintenance: Requires occasional electrolyte level checks (not sealed/maintenance-free)

When I first installed the 14LA2 in my V-Star, I was initially concerned about the 190 CCA rating, which is lower than some premium alternatives. However, I’ve now gone through three Minnesota winters with this battery, and it’s started reliably down to about 40°F without assistance. Below that, I do use a battery tender overnight, which seems to be sufficient even in our harshest conditions.

Cost Analysis: Value That’s Hard to Beat

Let’s talk dollars and cents. The pricing of the Everstart 14LA2 was what initially caught my attention. Currently retailing between $39.99 to $49.99 (prices may vary by location), it represents significant savings compared to premium brand alternatives that often run $80-120 for comparable specifications.

During my three years of ownership, I’ve calculated that I’ve saved approximately $120 compared to if I had purchased a premium brand battery and replaced it according to the typical lifecycle. Factor in that the Everstart comes with a 1-year free replacement warranty (more limited than premium options but still adequate), and the value proposition becomes even more compelling.

Is the cheapest option always the best? Certainly not. But in this case, the Everstart 14LA2 delivers about 85-90% of the performance of premium alternatives at roughly half the price, making it an exceptional value for average riders who aren’t pushing their machines to extreme limits.

Installation Guide: From Box to Bike in 30 Minutes

Installing the Everstart 14LA2 is straightforward, even for mechanical novices. When I did my first installation, I was pleasantly surprised by how manageable the process was. Here’s the step-by-step approach I’ve refined over multiple installations:

Before You Begin:

1. Gather safety equipment: rubber gloves, safety glasses, and old clothing you don’t mind potentially getting acid on
2. Have baking soda on hand to neutralize any acid spills
3. Prepare a clean, level workspace away from children and pets

Activation Process:

1. Unpack the battery and the separate acid pack carefully
2. Place the battery on a level surface with the cell caps facing upward
3. Remove the cell caps (typically six of them)
4. Position the acid pack over the battery cells, aligning the outlets with the fill holes
5. Push down firmly to puncture the seals and allow acid to flow into cells
6. Wait approximately 20-30 minutes for the acid to be fully absorbed into the plates
7. Replace the cell caps securely

Installation Steps:

1. Locate your vehicle’s battery compartment (usually under the seat for motorcycles)
2. Disconnect the negative (black) cable first, then the positive (red) cable from your old battery
3. Remove any hold-down brackets or straps securing the old battery
4. Extract the old battery carefully, noting orientation and cable routing
5. Clean the battery tray and cable terminals with a wire brush if necessary
6. Position the new 14LA2 battery in the same orientation as the old one
7. Reconnect the positive (red) cable first, then the negative (black) cable
8. Secure any hold-down brackets or straps
9. Check that all connections are tight and properly positioned

The first time I activated and installed an Everstart battery, it took me about 45 minutes, being cautious with the acid. Now I can complete the entire process in under 30 minutes. Just remember that proper activation is crucial for battery performance and longevity.

Charging Techniques: Keeping Your 14LA2 in Prime Condition

Proper charging is essential for maximizing the lifespan of any lead-acid battery, and the Everstart 14LA2 is no exception. After experimenting with different approaches, I’ve found these charging practices to be most effective:

Initial Charge:

After activation with acid, the 14LA2 comes partially charged but benefits from an initial full charge before first use. I use a motorcycle-specific charger set to 12V at a slow charge rate (2 amps or less) for approximately 6-8 hours before installation.

Routine Maintenance Charging:

For seasonal vehicles or motorcycles that don’t see regular use, I’ve found that a quality battery tender or maintainer makes a tremendous difference in battery longevity. I connect mine whenever the bike sits for more than two weeks, especially during colder months.

Recovery Charging:

If the battery becomes depleted (below 12.2V), I’ve successfully recovered it using a smart charger with a recovery mode. However, I’ve noticed that after about the third deep discharge, the battery begins to lose some capacity permanently.

Charging Equipment:

While any 12V charger technically works, I strongly recommend using a motorcycle-specific smart charger. These typically have lower amperage outputs (1-2A) that are gentler on smaller batteries like the 14LA2. The $30-50 investment in a quality charger has extended the life of my batteries significantly.

During my ownership experience, I’ve found that the battery holds a charge well when the motorcycle is ridden at least weekly. However, during our long Minnesota winters when the bike is stored, I leave it connected to a Battery Tender Junior, which has prevented any cold-weather starting issues in spring.

Performance in Different Weather Conditions

Living in Minnesota has given me ample opportunity to test the Everstart 14LA2’s performance across temperature extremes. Here’s what I’ve learned:

Hot Weather Performance:

In summer temperatures (80-95°F), the battery performs flawlessly. I’ve never experienced a hot-weather starting issue, and the battery seems to maintain its charge exceptionally well during this season, even with infrequent use.

Moderate Weather Performance:

During spring and fall (40-70°F), performance remains strong with no noticeable difference from premium alternatives. Cold morning starts might require an extra second of cranking but nothing concerning.

Cold Weather Performance:

This is where the true test comes. In temperatures between 20-40°F, the 14LA2 still performs adequately, though with noticeably reduced cranking power compared to warmer conditions. Below 20°F, I’ve found that using a battery tender overnight becomes essential for reliable starting.

During one particularly cold snap (-10°F), I did experience difficulty starting my V-Star even after overnight charging. This is where premium batteries with higher CCA ratings might justify their cost for riders in consistently cold climates. However, for most seasonal riders in varied climates, the Everstart provides adequate cold-weather performance when properly maintained.

Maintenance Requirements: Keeping It Simple

One common misconception I had initially was that all modern batteries are maintenance-free. The Everstart 14LA2 is actually a conventional battery that requires some basic maintenance. After three years of ownership, here’s my maintenance routine:

Monthly Checks (During Riding Season):

1. Visual inspection for any corrosion on terminals
2. Check electrolyte levels in each cell (should cover the plates but not overfill)
3. Add distilled water if levels are low (never tap water, which contains minerals that damage batteries)

Seasonal Maintenance:

1. Clean terminals with a wire brush and apply a thin coat of dielectric grease
2. Fully charge before seasonal storage
3. Connect to a battery tender for long-term storage
4. Check for any case cracks or damage

What to Avoid:

• Never add battery acid after the initial activation (only distilled water)
• Avoid deep discharges by not leaving accessories on
• Don’t attempt to fast-charge this battery (keep charging current below 2A)
• Avoid extreme heat exposure, which accelerates water evaporation

While this maintenance might seem like a drawback compared to sealed maintenance-free alternatives, I’ve found it takes less than five minutes per month. The trade-off in cost savings has been well worth this minimal effort.

Longevity: How Long Can You Expect the 14LA2 to Last?

Battery lifespan is influenced by numerous factors including usage patterns, maintenance practices, and climate conditions. Based on my experience and discussions with other Everstart users, here’s what you can realistically expect:

• Average Lifespan: 2-3 years with proper maintenance
• Heavy Use Scenarios: 1.5-2 years (daily riding, extreme temperatures)
• Light Use with Proper Maintenance: Up to 4 years (occasional weekend rides, stored with battery tender)

My first 14LA2 lasted almost 3 years before showing signs of diminished capacity (slower cranking, faster discharge when sitting). This compares favorably to premium brands that typically last 3-4 years in similar applications.

The key factors that seem to influence longevity most significantly are:

1. Proper initial activation
2. Use of a battery tender during storage
3. Regular riding (at least weekly during season)
4. Avoiding deep discharges
5. Maintaining proper electrolyte levels

For the price point, I consider 2-3 years of reliable service to be excellent value, especially considering I could purchase two Everstart batteries for the price of one premium alternative.

Comparing the Everstart 14LA2 to Competitors

Having previously used several premium and budget-friendly alternatives, I can offer some comparisons to help you understand where the Everstart 14LA2 sits in the marketplace:

vs. Yuasa YTX14-BS (Premium Option, ~$100):

• The Yuasa offers approximately 20% higher CCA (240 vs. 190)
• Yuasa provides slightly better cold-weather performance
• Yuasa typically lasts 3-4 years vs. 2-3 for the Everstart
• The Everstart costs less than half the price
• Performance difference is negligible in moderate climates

vs. Chrome Battery YTX14-BS (Mid-tier, ~$70):

• Very similar performance characteristics
• Chrome Battery offers a slightly longer warranty
• Everstart still maintains a significant price advantage
• Virtually identical cold-weather performance in my testing

vs. Amazon Basics Motorcycle Battery (Budget, ~$45):

• Similar price point
• The Everstart demonstrated better cold-weather reliability in my experience
• Comparable lifespan (2-3 years)
• Everstart has wider availability through Walmart stores

After owning multiple battery brands, my assessment is that the Everstart 14LA2 represents the sweet spot of performance and value for average riders. Premium options make sense for those in extremely cold climates or who demand absolute reliability regardless of cost, but for most recreational riders, the Everstart provides 85-90% of the performance at roughly half the price.

Real-World Performance: My Personal Experience

Rather than speaking in generalities, let me share some specific experiences that demonstrate the real-world performance of the Everstart 14LA2:

Summer Road Trip Test:

Last summer, I took my V-Star on a 1,200-mile round trip through the Upper Midwest. Despite temperatures reaching the mid-90s and multiple short stops that required frequent starting, the battery performed flawlessly. Even with the added draw of my phone charger and LED auxiliary lights, the 14LA2 maintained consistent voltage throughout the journey.

Winter Storage Success:

During my first winter with the Everstart, I stored my motorcycle in an unheated garage with temperatures occasionally dropping to single digits. I kept the battery connected to a Battery Tender Junior. After four months of storage, the bike started on the first attempt when spring arrived—impressive for a battery in this price range.

Recovery From Accidental Discharge:

About a year into ownership, I accidentally left my auxiliary lights on overnight, completely draining the battery. I was certain I’d need a replacement. However, after a slow charge with my smart charger’s recovery mode, the battery returned to full functionality with no apparent permanent damage. This resilience was unexpected and impressive.

The Ultimate Test: Loaning to a Novice Rider:

Perhaps the most telling test came when I loaned my motorcycle (with the Everstart battery) to my nephew who was learning to ride. His frequent stalling and restarting, combined with leaving the key in the accessory position several times, would stress any battery. The 14LA2 handled this abuse remarkably well, further cementing my confidence in its reliability.

Where to Purchase the Everstart 14LA2

The Everstart line is Walmart’s house brand of batteries, making Walmart stores and Walmart.com the primary sources for purchasing the 14LA2. This exclusivity has both advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages of Walmart Availability:

• Widespread retail locations for immediate pickup
• Easy warranty claims process (simply return to any Walmart)
• Consistent pricing with frequent promotions
• Ability to physically inspect before purchase

Disadvantages:

• Limited to Walmart’s stock availability
• Cannot comparison shop across retailers
• Occasionally out of stock during peak seasons

In my experience, the best approach is to check the Walmart website for local inventory before making a special trip. I’ve occasionally found that certain stores maintain better stock of specialty batteries like the 14LA2 than others.

Current pricing typically ranges from $39.99 to $49.99, with occasional sales dropping the price even lower. I’ve found the best deals tend to occur in early spring (March-April) as riding season approaches.

The Environmental Consideration: Recycling Your Old Battery

Lead-acid batteries are among the most successfully recycled products in the world, with recovery rates exceeding 95% in many areas. When your Everstart 14LA2 eventually reaches the end of its useful life, proper disposal is both environmentally responsible and legally required in most jurisdictions.

Here’s how I’ve handled battery recycling:

1. Most retailers (including Walmart) will accept your old battery for recycling when purchasing a new one
2. Many auto parts stores accept old batteries for recycling even without a purchase
3. Local hazardous waste facilities also accept batteries for proper disposal

In some areas, you might receive a small core deposit refund (typically $5-10) when returning your old battery. More importantly, recycling ensures that the lead, plastic, and acid components are properly processed rather than contaminating landfills or water sources.

When I replaced my first Everstart battery, I simply brought it to Walmart when purchasing the replacement, and they handled the recycling process at no additional cost.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Everstart 14LA2

Throughout my years of using and recommending this battery, I’ve fielded many questions from fellow riders. Here are the most common ones with my experienced-based answers:

Can I use the 14LA2 in my Harley-Davidson?

Most Harley-Davidson motorcycles use a different battery size and terminal configuration. The 14LA2 is typically compatible with Japanese and some European motorcycles rather than American V-twins.

How long after activation can I store the battery before use?

Once activated, the battery should ideally be installed and used within 30 days. If longer storage is necessary, keep it on a maintenance charger.

Can I add more acid if the levels get low?

No—only add distilled water to maintain proper electrolyte levels. Adding more acid will damage the battery.

Will this battery work in my large ATV/UTV?

For smaller ATVs (under 500cc), the 14LA2 is often sufficient. Larger UTVs and ATVs typically require batteries with higher capacity and CCA ratings.

Does this battery come fully charged?

No. After activation with the included acid, the battery will be approximately 75-80% charged and should be fully charged before installation for best results.

Can I use a car charger to charge this battery?

It’s not ideal. Car chargers typically output 10+ amps, which can damage smaller batteries. Use a motorcycle-specific charger that outputs 1-2 amps maximum.

Does the warranty cover normal wear and capacity loss?

No. The warranty typically covers manufacturing defects but not normal capacity degradation over time.

The Verdict: Is the Everstart 14LA2 Worth It?

After three years and thousands of miles with the Everstart 14LA2 powering my motorcycle, I can confidently say this battery represents exceptional value for most riders. While not the absolute best performer in extreme conditions, it delivers reliable performance at a price point that’s hard to beat.

For average recreational riders who maintain their vehicles properly and don’t frequently ride in extreme cold, the Everstart 14LA2 offers the ideal balance of performance, reliability, and affordability.

Premium alternatives make sense for those who demand the absolute best regardless of cost, ride professionally, or regularly operate in extreme conditions. However, for weekend warriors, casual riders, and budget-conscious enthusiasts, the Everstart 14LA2 provides everything needed at roughly half the price of premium options.

My personal strategy has been to invest the money saved on batteries into quality maintenance equipment like a smart charger and battery tender, which ultimately extends the life of whatever battery I’m using. This approach has served me well and maximized the value I’ve received from the already cost-effective Everstart 14LA2.

Whether you’re replacing an aging battery or outfitting a new small-engine vehicle, the Everstart 14LA2 deserves serious consideration as a reliable power solution that won’t break the bank.