Make it a Harley Holiday with the top Harley-Davidson gifts for him.

With Christmas right around the corner, it’s time to start searching for the perfect gift ideas for him. Here at Indianapolis Southside Harley-Davidson, we understand how hard it can be to shop for the Harley guy in your life. We’re here to help! Our team has compiled a list of the season’s Top 5 Harley-Davidson gifts for him. Whether you’re shopping for a husband or a boyfriend, a father, son, or someone else, you’ll find the perfect gift for the biker who doesn’t know what he wants, right here at Indy's Southside H-D. We even have great Harley Davidson gift ideas for that guy who thinks he has it all.

All of these great holiday gifts can be found in-store at ISSHD. BUT if you'd like to order online through h-d.com/store, log in, then under Your Account, be sure to select Indianapolis Southside Harley-Davidson as your Preferred Dealership. By doing this, we get assigned as the Selling Dealer during checkout, and as the default delivery destination if you choose to have your order shipped HERE for FREE in-store pickup.

FREE holiday gift wrapping available in-store only!

#1: Moto Ride Nylon Jacket

Designed with cold weather in mind, the Moto Ride Nylon Jacket is perfect for H-D fans who call the Indianapolis area home. You’ll be able to withstand Old Man Winter, thanks to 100% heavy nylon twill with polyester mesh lining, hand-warmer pockets, and a rib-knit collar and waist. This jacket features plenty of stash pockets, and the unmistakable black and orange coloring and embroidered H-D graphics remind everyone where your loyalty resides.

Available in a variety of regular and tall sizes, make space on your coat rack and come check out the Moto Ride Nylon Jacket today at Southside Harley-Davidson in Indianapolis.

#2: Orange 1/4-Zip Logo Fleece

This classic Logo Collection Orange 1/4-Zip Logo Fleece feels right at home in just about any situation. Layer it up or wear it by itself. Featuring anti-static fleece for a comfy and low-maintenance fit, this long sleeve shirt also has the timeless H-D Bar & Shield logo embroidered on the left chest.

With sizes ranging from Small to 5XL, Harley fans of all shapes and stature will fit right into the Orange 1/4-Zip Logo Fleece. Drop by ISSHD and grab one for your guy today.

#3: 1903 59FIFTY® Baseball Cap

Keep the sun out of your eyes and do it in style, with the 1903 59FIFTY® Baseball Cap from H-D. With a fresh look that doesn’t forsake heritage, this hat features wool and viscose construction and embroidered graphics on the front and back. The fitted design comes in many sizes. 

Give your biker guy some added swagger and come see the 1903 59FIFTY® Baseball Caps in stock today at your Indianapolis Harely-Davidson dealer, Southside Harley.

#4: Black Plaid Flannel Lounge Pants

We’d argue there is no better way to enjoy your morning cup of coffee than by drinking it while wearing some authentic H-D flannel. Comfortable, casual, and classic, these Black Plaid Flannel Lounge Pants are the perfect way to relax on a chilly weekend in the warmth of your home. Don’t call them sweat pants; with premium features like 100% cotton flannel, elastic waistband and drawstring, button fly, side pockets, and embroidered graphics, you might not want to take them off. 

Grab a pair of these Black Plaid Flannel Lounge Pants in sizes S-2XL at Southside Harley-Davidson in Indy. Heck, while you’re at it, grab two. 

#5: Bar & Shield Logo Backpack

Pack it full of textbooks for your next class, or all the gear you need for your next trip. This Bar & Shield Logo Backpack features several smart pockets and compartments, with enough space to stuff your helmet. Made out of durable dobby polyester, you’ll be glad to have this pack with you on campus or on the road. 

Hate to wrap presents? Pick up this Bar & Shield Logo Backpack at Southside H-D and use it to hold all of your other great gifts.

If there's something in particular you are looking for and you're having a hard time finding it, let us know. Fill out our MotorClothes Request Form.

Don’t wait until the last minute to finish your holiday shopping. Indianapolis Southside Harley-Davidson is open seven days a week and we’re happy to help you find the best holiday gifts to give the guys in your life a very Harley and happy holiday. Come see us today!

TL;DR: Understanding your motorcycle battery lifespan is key to keeping your Harley ready to ride. This guide breaks down how the right battery, proper maintenance, and smart charging habits can dramatically extend performance and reliability.

• Genuine Harley motorcycle batteries are built for durability, vibration resistance, and long-term performance
• The average motorcycle battery lifespan is 3–5 years—but can last much longer with proper care
• Batteries naturally lose charge due to self-discharge, heat, and onboard electronics
• A Harley Davidson battery tender prevents overcharging while maintaining optimal charge levels
• Consistent use of a battery tender can significantly extend battery life and reduce replacement costs

When it comes to keeping your ride road-ready, your battery isn’t just another component—it’s the heartbeat of your Harley. If you’ve ever hit the starter and heard nothing but silence, you already know how critical it is. Understanding your motorcycle battery lifespan and how to maintain it properly can mean the difference between riding free and being stuck in the garage.

Let’s break down why choosing the right battery (and taking care of it the Harley way) matters.

Why a Genuine Harley Motorcycle Battery Matters

Not all batteries are built to handle the demands of a Harley-Davidson. A Harley motorcycle battery is engineered specifically for the power, vibration, and electrical load of your machine.

Here’s what sets it apart:

• Built to meet strict Harley-Davidson performance and durability standards
• Patented terminal design for stronger connections and longer life
• Fully sealed and leak-proof construction for safety and reliability
• Designed to withstand Harley-specific vibration and riding conditions

Sure, you might save a few dollars with a generic alternative—but when it comes to reliability, performance, and longevity, there’s no substitute for the real deal. A genuine Harley battery is an investment in your ride and your peace of mind.

Understanding Motorcycle Battery Lifespan

One of the most common questions riders ask is: "How long do Harley batteries last?”

On average, a well-maintained Harley battery can last anywhere from 3 to 5 years. With proper care—and the right tools—you can stretch that lifespan even further. In fact, riders who consistently maintain their battery with a Harley Davidson battery tender have reported getting significantly more years out of a single battery.

But here’s the catch: batteries don’t fail overnight—they degrade over time, often due to neglect.

The Silent Drain: Why Batteries Lose Charge

Even when your bike is parked, your battery is still working—and slowly losing power.

Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes:

• Self-discharge: Every battery naturally loses charge over time, even when not in use
• Parasitic loads: Systems like alarms or onboard electronics continue drawing small amounts of power
• Heat impact: Warmer temperatures accelerate battery discharge (especially during hot riding seasons)

In ideal conditions, your battery can lose around 3% of its charge each month. But in hotter climates, that rate can double. Over time, this adds up—and before you know it, your battery no longer has enough power to start your bike.

The Risks of a Discharged Battery

Letting your battery sit without proper maintenance can lead to more than just inconvenience.

• A discharged battery won’t start your motorcycle
• Deep discharge can cause permanent internal damage
• Repeated neglect shortens the overall motorcycle battery lifespan

In short, if you’re not actively maintaining your battery, you’re actively shortening its life.

The Best Solution: Use a Motorcycle Battery Tender

If you want to extend the life of your battery, there’s one simple solution: use a motorcycle battery tender.

A battery tender works by delivering a steady, controlled charge to your battery—just enough to offset natural discharge without overcharging. Unlike basic chargers, a Harley Davidson battery tender uses smart technology to monitor voltage and adjust accordingly.

Why It Works

• Prevents battery drain during storage
• Maintains optimal charge levels
• Reduces long-term wear and tear
• Extends battery lifespan significantly

The key is consistency. Don’t just plug in your tender for winter storage—use it anytime your bike isn’t being ridden.

Charging a Motorcycle Battery with a Trickle Charger

You may be wondering about charging a motorcycle battery with a trickle charger versus using a smart battery tender.

While both provide low-level charging, there’s a critical difference:

• Traditional trickle chargers deliver a constant charge, which can lead to overcharging
• Battery tenders automatically cycle on and off to maintain the perfect charge level

If you’re serious about protecting your investment, a battery tender is the smarter, safer choice.

How Long to Charge a Motorcycle Battery

Another common question: how long to charge a motorcycle battery?

The answer depends on the battery’s condition and the charger you’re using:

• With a smart battery tender, it can take several hours to reach full charge, then maintain it indefinitely
• With a traditional charger: typically 4–24 hours, depending on battery size and discharge level

The advantage of a battery tender is that you don’t have to guess—it does the work for you and keeps your battery in peak condition automatically.

Real-World Results: A Rider’s Experience

Consistency pays off. Riders who stay disciplined with battery maintenance often see incredible results.

Take it from a long-time Harley owner who kept their bike plugged into a battery tender whenever it wasn’t in use—even between daily rides. The result? Over nine years on the original battery.

That’s the power of proper maintenance.

Top Harley-Davidson Battery Tenders to Consider

If you’re ready to protect your battery and maximize performance, here are two standout options designed specifically for Harley riders:

750mA SuperSmart Battery Tender

Compact, efficient, and built with intelligent charging cycles, this tender automatically adjusts to your battery’s needs. It prevents overcharging while delivering consistent performance—perfect for everyday use.

800mA Waterproof Battery Tender

Built for durability, this option is ideal for riders who store their bikes in less-than-perfect conditions. Its waterproof design, vibration resistance, and multi-stage charging system make it a reliable choice for long-term storage and year-round protection.

Ride More, Worry Less

Your battery should never be the reason you miss a ride. By understanding your motorcycle battery lifespan, investing in a quality Harley motorcycle battery, and using a Harley Davidson battery tender, you’re setting yourself up for reliability every time you hit the road.

Make battery maintenance part of your routine—and your Harley will be ready whenever you are.

Keep Your Harley Ready at Southside Harley-Davidson

At Southside Harley-Davidson, we’re here to help you get the most out of every mile. From premium batteries to the right motorcycle battery tender, our team has the tools, the expertise, and the parts to keep your ride performing at its best.

Stop by, gear up, and keep your Harley charged, maintained, and ready to roll.

More and more riders are gearing up for their fall road trips. We get asked all the time for advice on what to bring, what to leave at home, how to pack a bike, and even where to go. So Indinapolis Southside Harley-Davidson offers some trusty tips on how to make your trip one worth remembering.

 What should I pack?

It seems like such a simple question, but it’s one without a specific answer. There really is no “right” way to pack for a motorcycle trip (though there are plenty of wrongs). It is more a matter of personal preference. Just like some campers choose a backpack while others prefer an RV, we see riders strap a duffel bag between their handlebars, pull trailers behind their Harleys, and everything in between.

Indianapolis Southside Harley-Davidson does have a few gear suggestions to consider:

•       Lightweight synthetic clothing
•       Cold weather attire
•       Rain gear
•       Multi-tool
•       Tire pressure gauge
•       Flashlight or headlamp
•       Extra batteries
•       First aid kit
•       Toiletries
•       Sunglasses & sunscreen
•       Maps or GPS
•       Cell phone (don’t forget the ISSHD mobile app!)
•       Phone charger
•       Books & journal
•       Laptop or tablet computer (if it fits)
•       Drivers license
•       Extra cash & credit cards

It likely goes without saying, but bring with you all the appropriate riding gear you need (helmet, leathers, gloves, boots, etc.), even if you don’t plan on wearing everything all the time. Remember that laws vary widely, so plan ahead before traveling over state lines.

How can I carry more on my bike?

Most motorcycle riders plan for what they’ll bring on a road trip, but many often forget about what they’ll pick up along the way. Thankfully, Harley-Davidson has several storage solutions.

 The Harley-Davidson Premium Luggage Collection includes a wide range of storage products to satisfy all of your road-tripping needs. Bring your bike out to Indianapolis Southside Harley-Davidson for a customized fitting by our parts & accessories pros. From saddlebags and travel bags, to luggage racks and anything in between, our team can create all the storage space you need, no matter how far you go or how long you’re gone.

Where should I go?

Located right here in Indianapolis, Southside Harley is the perfect starting point for any motorcycle trip. If you call central Indiana home, you know how easy it is to get to just about any place in the state in only a few hours. Want to go further? Visit our showroom and talk to a member of our team about great destinations all year long. 

Another great source of wisdom and friendly advice can be found within our local H.O.G. Chapter -  Indianapolis Southside Chapter of H.O.G. Harley Owners Group.  riders are a tightknit bunch and many are happy to share personal experiences to help you plan your ride. Visit our chapter website for membership info.

Fall is a favorite season for motorcycle road trips. Before you go, swing by Indianapolis Southside Harley-Davidson for the official H-D parts, gear, and service to keep you focused on the road ahead, not what you left behind. Have fun out there.

Don’t want to forget anything? Print this helpful pack checklist courtesy Harley-Davidson and Indianapolis Southside H-D to make sure all your essentials go with you when it’s time to hit the road.