A strong side-by-side battery must match the machine’s required size and terminals, deliver enough starting power, and suit off-road vibration; the best choice depends on the exact model. ExpertPower YTX9-BS is the most directly powersports-oriented option here because it is listed for ATVs and provides 180 CCA in a compact 6.5-pound package. The OPTIMA REDTOP models offer much higher cranking figures, from 720 to 800 CCA, and the brand states that its AGM batteries provide up to 15 times more vibration resistance.
However, several products are described for cars or trucks rather than side-by-sides, so those figures do not establish fit. Compare the battery compartment, terminal layout, and manufacturer requirements before buying; group size alone is not enough to confirm compatibility.
ExpertPower YTX9-BS is the most direct fit for a side-by-side-oriented shortlist because its listed compatible vehicle types include ATV, and it has a compact 5.91-by-3.43-by-4.21-inch case. It supplies 180 CCA, so it is not the highest-output option. The OPTIMA 34/78 REDTOP and OPTIMA 78 REDTOP each list 800 CCA, but their vehicle compatibility is passenger car and truck.
Confirm your side-by-side’s required battery dimensions, terminals, and starting specification before choosing any of these batteries.
Our Top Picks
Best OverallIt is explicitly listed for ATVs and measures 5.91 by 3.43 by 4.21 inches, though its 180 CCA suits only machines whose requirements match.
View on Amazon
Highest CCAIts 800 CCA and dual SAE and GM posts offer strong starting output and terminal flexibility; listed vehicle types are passenger car and truck.
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Side-Terminal OptionThis 800-CCA AGM has GM-style side terminals and a 100-minute reserve capacity, but its listed vehicle types are passenger car and truck.
View on Amazon- Lower Weight OPTIMA 75/25 REDTOP
Compare battery fit, starting power, and terminal options
| # | Product | Weight | Size | Dimensions D x W x H | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. ExpertPower YTX9-BSBest Overall | 6.5 lb | YTX9-BS | 3.43"D x 5.91"W x 4.21"H | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. OPTIMA 34/78 REDTOPHighest CCA | 38.8 lb | 10 x 6-7/8 x 7-13/16 inch | 6.88"D x 10"W x 7.81"H | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. OPTIMA 78 REDTOPSide-Terminal Option | 39.5 lb | 10 x 7-1/4 x 7-3/16 inch | 7.25"D x 10"W x 7.19"H | View on Amazon |
| 4 |  4. OPTIMA 75/25 REDTOPLower Weight | 33.1 lb | 10-5/16 x 6-13/16 x 7-5/8 inch | 6.81"D x 10.31"W x 7.63"H | View on Amazon |
| 5 |  5. Interstate MTX-78Group 78 high-capacity needs | 41.3 lb | Group Size 78 | 7.31"D x 10.94"W x 7.24"H | View on Amazon |
| 6 |  6. ACDelco Silver 78SAGMGM replacement buyers | 41.9 lb | — | — | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best Battery For Side By Side
#1 · Best Overall
1. ExpertPower YTX9-BS
- Weight: 6.5 lb
- Size: YTX9-BS
- Dimensions D x W x H: 3.43"D x 5.91"W x 4.21"H
Best for: Compact ATV battery swaps.
Why it ranks #1: It is explicitly listed for ATVs and measures 5.91 by 3.43 by 4.21 inches, though its 180 CCA suits only machines whose requirements match.
ExpertPower’s 5.91-by-3.43-by-4.21-inch YTX9-BS case gives side-by-side owners a compact AGM battery option, with 180 CCA and 9Ah stated for quick ignition use. Its sealed, leak-resistant design and 6.5-pound weight support straightforward handling, while the listed ATV compatibility makes this a powersports-focused choice.
The 180 CCA rating is presented as the punch for quick ignition, and 9Ah capacity provides a stated measure of stored charge. Its sealed AGM design prevents leaks and has a low self-discharge rate, useful for owners whose vehicle may sit between outings. At 6.5 pounds, it is easier to position than the heavier automotive batteries listed here. The compact dimensions and N&B terminal type are important installation details; the product listing also names ATV compatibility, alongside several motorcycle and scooter types.
- 180 CCA rating
- 9Ah capacity
- Sealed AGM design prevents leaks
- 6.5-pound weight and compact listed dimensions
- Its 180 CCA and 9Ah specifications are substantially smaller than the listed automotive starting-battery figures.
Skip it if you need the listed 720 CCA or greater starting figures of OPTIMA’s REDTOP automotive batteries rather than 180 CCA.
This fits buyers looking for a compact, light AGM battery for an ATV-style powersports application, with stated 180 CCA and low self-discharge. Its 9Ah capacity and N&B terminal type make application and connection requirements important.
Full product details
| Brand | ExpertPower |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | ATV, street-cruiser-motorcycles, street-motor-scooters, street-touring-motorcycles |
| Included Components | BLMMYB12_9 |
| Dimensions | 3.43"D x 5.91"W x 4.21"H |
| Item Weight | 6.5 pounds |
| Manufacturer | ExpertPower |
| Part Number | YTX9-BS |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 1yr |
| Model Number | YTX9-BS |
| Size | YTX9-BS |
| Voltage | 12 volts |
| Additional Information | Important information Safety Information DOT Certified |
Listed on Amazon as: ExpertPower YTX9-BS 12V 9Ah ATV Battery ETX9-BS Replacement AGM, 180 CCA
View on Amazon#2 · Highest CCA
2. OPTIMA 34/78 REDTOP
- Weight: 38.8 lb
- Size: 10 x 6-7/8 x 7-13/16 inch
- Dimensions D x W x H: 6.88"D x 10"W x 7.81"H
Best for: Dual-terminal off-road starts.
Why it ranks #2: Its 800 CCA and dual SAE and GM posts offer strong starting output and terminal flexibility; listed vehicle types are passenger car and truck.
OPTIMA’s 34/78 REDTOP combines 800 CCA with dual SAE and GM posts, giving side-by-side owners strong stated starting output and two terminal styles. Its 50Ah capacity and 100-minute reserve add useful reference figures, while SpiralCell technology and a 38.8-pound weight shape its performance and installation considerations.
OPTIMA describes the REDTOP’s SpiralCell technology with 99.99% pure lead as delivering more power than conventional flat-plate batteries, and its 800 CCA rating identifies its starting output. Dual SAE and GM posts offer options for cable connections, provided the vehicle’s layout matches. The 50Ah capacity and 100-minute reserve provide stated measures for evaluating reserve performance. Its 10.06-by-6.94-by-7.88-inch dimensions and 38.8-pound weight should be considered when checking battery-tray space and planning installation.
- 800 CCA rating
- Dual SAE and GM posts
- 50Ah capacity
- 100-minute reserve capacity
- Its 10.06-by-6.94-by-7.88-inch case requires space for a relatively wide, tall battery.
Skip it if you need GM-style side terminals only; OPTIMA’s 78 REDTOP lists that terminal configuration instead of dual SAE and GM posts.
This suits side-by-side owners seeking an 800 CCA starting battery with both SAE and GM posts and a stated 100-minute reserve. Its case dimensions and 38.8-pound weight make compartment fit and installation planning essential.
Full product details
| Brand | OPTIMA |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Passenger Car, Truck |
| Included Components | battery |
| Dimensions | 6.88"D x 10"W x 7.81"H |
| Item Weight | 38.8 pounds |
| Manufacturer | OPTIMA |
| Part Number | 8004-003 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | parts |
| Model Number | 8004-003 |
| Size | 10 x 6-7/8 x 7-13/16 inch |
| Voltage | 12 volts |
Listed on Amazon as: OPTIMA Batteries High Performance 34/78 RedTop Sealed AGM Car, Truck, and SUV Starting Battery, 800 CCA, Dual SAE and GM Terminals, Maintenance Free, Versitile Mounting
View on Amazon#3 · Side-Terminal Option
3. OPTIMA 78 REDTOP
- Weight: 39.5 lb
- Size: 10 x 7-1/4 x 7-3/16 inch
- Dimensions D x W x H: 7.25"D x 10"W x 7.19"H
Best for: GM side-terminal setups.
Why it ranks #3: This 800-CCA AGM has GM-style side terminals and a 100-minute reserve capacity, but its listed vehicle types are passenger car and truck.
The OPTIMA 78 REDTOP supplies 800 cold-cranking amps and GM-style side terminals, making it a defined-output starting option for side-by-side owners whose cable layout uses that terminal style. SpiralCell technology and a 100-minute reserve add stated performance details, while its 39.5-pound weight matters when lifting it into place.
The 800 CCA rating gives buyers a concrete starting-output measure, and OPTIMA describes SpiralCell technology with 99.99% pure lead as delivering more power than conventional flat-plate batteries. Its GM-style side terminals target a specific connection layout, so cable compatibility is central to choosing it. A 50Ah capacity and 100-minute reserve provide additional reference points for the battery’s stated reserve performance. The 10.06-by-7.31-by-7.25-inch listed size and 39.5-pound weight are worth factoring into compartment fit and installation.
- 800 CCA rating
- GM-style side terminals
- 50Ah capacity
- 100-minute reserve capacity
- GM-style side terminals do not provide the dual SAE-and-GM post arrangement of OPTIMA’s 34/78 REDTOP.
Skip it if you require top-post SAE connections as well as GM terminals; OPTIMA’s 34/78 REDTOP lists dual SAE and GM posts.
Choose this for a side-by-side setup that uses GM-style side terminals and calls for a stated 800 CCA starting rating. Its case dimensions and side-terminal cable reach are key fit considerations before installation.
Full product details
| Brand | OPTIMA |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Passenger Car, Truck |
| Included Components | Battery |
| Dimensions | 7.25"D x 10"W x 7.19"H |
| Item Weight | 39.5 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Optima Batteries |
| Part Number | 8078109 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 36-month guarantee |
| Model Number | 8078-109 |
| Size | 10 x 7-1/4 x 7-3/16 inch |
| Voltage | 12 volts |
Listed on Amazon as: OPTIMA® Batteries High Performance 78 REDTOP® Sealed AGM Battery
View on Amazon#4 · Lower Weight
4. OPTIMA 75/25 REDTOP
- Weight: 33.1 lb
- Size: 10-5/16 x 6-13/16 x 7-5/8 inch
- Dimensions D x W x H: 6.81"D x 10.31"W x 7.63"H
Best for: Compact dual-post starting.
Why it ranks #4: At 33.1 pounds, it is the lightest automotive AGM option here and lists 720 CCA, but compatibility is stated for passenger cars and trucks.
OPTIMA’s 75/25 REDTOP pairs dual SAE and GM posts with 720 cold-cranking amps, giving side-by-side owners a defined starting-output figure and two terminal styles in one battery. Its 33.1-pound weight is lighter than some listed alternatives, while the 44Ah capacity and 90-minute reserve describe its stated energy storage.
The 720 CCA rating and SpiralCell construction are presented as the basis for high-power starting, including in bad weather, which suits owners prioritizing ignition power. Dual SAE and GM posts can accommodate either terminal style when compatible with the vehicle’s cables. The listed 44Ah capacity and 90-minute reserve provide useful reference points for understanding its stated reserve performance. At 33.1 pounds, it is comparatively manageable to lift, but the 9.38-by-6.81-by-7.75-inch stated dimensions still need to match the battery compartment.
- 720 CCA starting rating
- Dual SAE and GM posts
- SpiralCell technology with 99.99% pure lead
- 90-minute reserve capacity
- Its 44Ah capacity is lower than the 50Ah listed for the OPTIMA 78 REDTOP.
Skip it if you need GM-style side terminals rather than dual SAE and GM posts; the OPTIMA 78 REDTOP lists GM-style side terminals.
This is a candidate for side-by-side owners who want 720 CCA, dual terminal styles, and a stated 90-minute reserve. Its 75/25 dimensions and post arrangement still need to suit the vehicle’s tray and cable layout.
Full product details
| Brand | OPTIMA |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Passenger Car, Truck |
| Included Components | Battery |
| Dimensions | 6.81"D x 10.31"W x 7.63"H |
| Item Weight | 33.1 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Optima Batteries |
| Part Number | 8022-091 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 36-month guarantee |
| Model Number | 8022-091 |
| Size | 10-5/16 x 6-13/16 x 7-5/8 inch |
| Voltage | 12 volts |
Listed on Amazon as: OPTIMA® Batteries High Performance 75/25 REDTOP® Sealed AGM Battery
View on Amazon#5
5. Interstate MTX-78
- Weight: 41.3 lb
- Size: Group Size 78
- Dimensions D x W x H: 7.31"D x 10.94"W x 7.24"H
Best for: Group 78 high-capacity needs.
Why it ranks #5: The Group 78 AGM lists 55Ah capacity and 740 CCA, but its stated compatible vehicle types are passenger car, truck, and van.
Interstate’s Group 78 MTX-78 combines 740 CCA with 55Ah capacity, giving side-by-side owners two clear figures for evaluating starting output and stored energy. Its AGM construction is described as powering accessories and plug-ins, while its 41.3-pound weight and 10.94-inch length make handling and compartment space relevant.
The 740 CCA figure gives a specific starting-output benchmark, while 55Ah capacity offers a stated measure of energy storage. Interstate says its AGM battery meets or exceeds car starting requirements and powers accessories and plug-ins, making those ratings relevant to buyers considering both ignition and electrical loads. The Group 78 designation and 10.94-by-7.31-by-7.24-inch dimensions help assess installation space, and its 41.3-pound weight is worth allowing for during lifting. The listing names passenger cars, trucks, and vans as compatible vehicle types.
- 740 CCA starting rating
- 55Ah capacity
- Group 78 size designation
- AGM construction described as powering accessories and plug-ins
- Its listed compatible vehicle types are passenger cars, trucks, and vans, not ATVs.
Skip it if you need a listed ATV application rather than car, truck, or van compatibility; ExpertPower’s YTX9-BS lists ATV compatibility.
This is for side-by-side owners prioritizing a Group 78 case with stated 740 CCA and 55Ah capacity. Confirm the application and compartment requirements carefully, since its listed compatible vehicle types are passenger cars, trucks, and vans.
Full product details
| Brand | Interstate Batteries |
|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 55 amp_hours |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Passenger Car, Truck, Van |
| Included Components | Automotive Battery |
| Dimensions | 7.31"D x 10.94"W x 7.24"H |
| Item Weight | 41.3 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Interstate Batteries |
| Part Number | MTX-78 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 36 Month Warranty |
| Model Number | MTX-78 |
| Size | Group Size 78 |
| Voltage | 12 volts |
Listed on Amazon as: Interstate Batteries Car Battery 12V 55Ah 740CCA Group 78 AGM
View on Amazon#6
6. ACDelco Silver 78SAGM
- Weight: 41.9 lb
Best for: GM replacement buyers.
Why it ranks #6: This 41.9-pound Group 78 battery is described for GM vehicles and most makes and models, but no CCA or ATV fitment is supplied.
ACDelco’s Group 78 AGM construction gives side-by-side owners a vehicle-battery option backed by General Motors, with stated suitability for GM vehicles and most makes and models. Its 41.9-pound weight is a practical handling consideration during installation, while the listing does not provide a cold-cranking-amps figure for judging starting output.
The Group 78 designation gives shoppers a concrete size category to compare with their vehicle’s battery space, and the AGM construction identifies the battery type. ACDelco describes this Silver battery as a value-oriented alternative for GM vehicles and most makes and models, which may suit owners replacing a vehicle battery across a range of applications. At 41.9 pounds, it is worth accounting for the lift and positioning needed during installation. The supplied listing does not state CCA or capacity figures.
- Group 78 battery designation
- AGM battery construction
- ACDelco states suitability for GM vehicles and most makes and models
- 41.9-pound listed weight helps plan handling
- The supplied listing gives no cold-cranking-amps or capacity figure.
Skip it if you need a stated CCA figure to compare starting output; the supplied ACDelco listing provides none.
This suits side-by-side owners seeking an ACDelco Group 78 AGM replacement, especially those considering a GM-associated battery for a vehicle application. Check that the Group 78 case fits your tray, and note that CCA and capacity are not specified.
Full product details
| Brand | ACDelco |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Vehicle Battery |
| Item Weight | 41.9 pounds |
| Manufacturer | ACDelco |
| Part Number | 88866331 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Please see https://www.gmparts.com/content/dam/gmparts/na/us/en/index/warranty/02-pdfs/battery-warranty-info.pdf for more details |
| Model Number | 78SAGM |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: ACDelco Silver 78SAGM (88866331) 24 Month Warranty AGM BCI Group 78 Battery
View on AmazonAvoid the Group 78 fitment trap
A Group 78 label does not by itself confirm that a battery fits a side-by-side. The OPTIMA 78 REDTOP and Interstate MTX-78 are both Group 78 options, but their listed compatible vehicle types are passenger car and truck, with the Interstate also listing vans. Their dimensions differ: the OPTIMA measures about 10 by 7.25 by 7.19 inches in the product dimensions, while the Interstate lists 7.31 by 10.94 by 7.24 inches.
The ACDelco is also a Group 78 battery, but its supplied data does not give dimensions or CCA. Before ordering, compare your machine’s battery-tray measurements, hold-down arrangement, terminal positions, and required battery type with the manufacturer’s specification.
A matching group number or similar-looking case is not proof of a safe physical or electrical fit.
Starting power and off-road vibration are separate needs
A high CCA figure helps describe starting output, but it does not establish that a battery suits every off-road machine. The OPTIMA 34/78 and 78 REDTOP each list 800 CCA, while the 75/25 REDTOP lists 720 CCA; ExpertPower’s ATV-listed battery is rated at 180 CCA. Those batteries also differ considerably in size and intended vehicle listing.
OPTIMA states that its REDTOP and YELLOWTOP AGM batteries provide up to 15 times more vibration resistance, but this should not be read as a guarantee of compatibility or service life in a particular side-by-side. Check the vehicle manual for the required CCA and charging-system requirements, then consider vibration resistance only among batteries that meet those requirements.
Choosing the largest CCA number without verifying fit can leave a battery that cannot be installed or properly charged.
How to Choose a Side-by-Side Battery
Vehicle fit and case dimensions
Look first for a battery whose case and terminal layout match the side-by-side’s specified fitment. The ATV-listed ExpertPower YTX9-BS measures 5.91 by 3.43 by 4.21 inches and weighs 6.5 pounds, while the automotive options weigh 33.1 to 41.9 pounds and have substantially larger listed dimensions. These are not interchangeable just because they are all batteries.
A compact powersports battery may suit a machine designed for that case; a larger automotive AGM may only work if the tray, hold-down, wiring, and manufacturer requirements allow it. Measure the available space and verify terminal position before ordering.
Favor the smaller end only when the machine calls for that size; prioritize exact specified fit over case size or weight alone.
Cold-cranking amps
Choose a CCA rating that meets or exceeds the side-by-side manufacturer’s requirement, especially if you start the machine in cold conditions. The listed range here runs from ExpertPower’s 180 CCA to 720 CCA for the OPTIMA 75/25 REDTOP, 740 CCA for the Interstate MTX-78, and 800 CCA for two other OPTIMA models. Higher figures are useful only if the battery also fits and works with the vehicle’s electrical system.
For a machine specified for a small powersports battery, the 180-CCA option may be relevant; a higher-demand application may call for one of the higher-rated batteries if its fitment is confirmed. Do not treat any listed CCA as a universal recommendation for side-by-sides.
Terminals and reserve capacity
Match the terminal style and reserve needs to the machine rather than assuming posts are interchangeable. The OPTIMA 34/78 REDTOP has dual SAE and GM posts, the OPTIMA 75/25 REDTOP also lists dual SAE and GM posts, and the OPTIMA 78 REDTOP has GM-style side terminals. The 75/25 lists 44Ah capacity and 90 minutes of reserve; the 78 and 34/78 list 50Ah and 100 minutes, respectively.
These details can help distinguish options when their basic fit is otherwise suitable, but the supplied data does not establish compatibility with any specific side-by-side. Choose dual posts only if they match the required connections, and use capacity or reserve figures as a comparison after confirming the vehicle’s battery specification.
Which Battery Should You Choose for Your Side-By-Side?
For a side-by-side that takes an ATV-style battery matching its dimensions and 180-CCA requirement, choose ExpertPower YTX9-BS; it is the only product explicitly listed as compatible with ATVs. If your machine’s manual specifies a larger automotive-style AGM and its case and connections fit, consider OPTIMA 34/78 REDTOP for 800 CCA and dual SAE and GM posts, or OPTIMA 78 REDTOP for 800 CCA with GM-style side terminals. The OPTIMA 75/25 REDTOP provides 720 CCA in a lighter 33.1-pound package.
Interstate MTX-78 offers 740 CCA and 55Ah, while ACDelco Silver 78SAGM is another Group 78 candidate. Do not select by rank or CCA alone: confirm dimensions, terminals, chemistry, and charging requirements against your specific side-by-side.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I confirm a battery will fit my side-by-side’s tray and terminal layout?
Measure the tray and compare its available space with the battery’s listed dimensions. Then check that the terminals are in the correct locations and match your cable connections. Confirm these details against your side-by-side’s manual or existing battery; a matching group label or vehicle category alone does not guarantee fit.
How many cold-cranking amps does my side-by-side require in cold weather?
Use the minimum CCA specified in your side-by-side’s manual, especially if you expect cold starts. There is no single CCA requirement for every machine. Compare the battery’s listed CCA with that specification, and confirm the battery also matches the required dimensions, terminals, and chemistry.
Can I use an automotive AGM battery in a side-by-side without changing its charging system?
Only if your side-by-side’s manual or manufacturer confirms the battery’s chemistry and charging requirements are compatible. An automotive AGM label by itself does not establish that fit. Check the case dimensions, terminal layout, and charging guidance before installation; do not assume the charging system needs no changes without verifying compatibility.
Does higher CCA alone make a battery the better choice?
No. CCA is only one factor; the battery must also meet your machine’s fit, terminal, chemistry, and charging requirements. For example, the OPTIMA REDTOP options list higher CCA than the ExpertPower YTX9-BS, but their listed vehicle compatibility is passenger car and truck.
Check your manual before choosing.
What does a Group 78 designation tell me about fit?
A Group 78 designation identifies a battery group, but it does not confirm that the battery fits every side-by-side. Compare the specific battery’s dimensions and terminal arrangement with your machine’s tray and cables, and check its required starting specification. Confirm all of these details against the manual before buying.
Final Words
Start with your side-by-side’s manual, then verify battery dimensions, terminal layout, chemistry, charging requirements, and required CCA. For a machine that accepts the listed compact ATV-style dimensions and 180-CCA specification, the ExpertPower YTX9-BS is the most direct match in this shortlist. Consider the automotive-style AGM options only if your machine specifies that type and their cases and connections fit; do not choose by CCA alone.
