I prefer AGM (absorbed glass mat) batteries; they are sealed, no leakage and have good operating life. If you use a battery charger make sure it is compatible with AGMs.

I've had good luck with cheapo wal-mart batteries... and may catch flak for saying so!

I figure, I can get three batteries for the price of one Interstate or equivalent. My bikes don't get a heated garage, so risk of freezing exists, no matter how much money I put into the battery.

Keep the battery charged, take it inside for the true cold of winter, and any of them should do well enough. I highly recommend installing a battery tender on your bike. My CX has a 30 year old stator, so charging the battery while going down the road is not a certain thing... I plug my battery in a few nights a week.

GS Battery USA – GS Japan Storage Battery Co which is said to be the same company as the makers of Yausa Batteries. http://www.gsbattery.com/

But honestly, batteries are less about brand and more about Cold Cranking Amps = CCA ratings, and as with absorbed glass mat gel filled batteries, the ablility to withstand the vibration of a motorcycle...

Unibat batteries are about the best batteries on the market IMO. They are OEM suppliers to Ducati, Benelli, Malagutti, Moto Morini, Norton, Husqvarna, etc. You don't get that status with marques like that unless you are making a top notch product.

"Yuasa" batteries. $100.00 usually, but I've never had any problems. Anyone will tell u that's it's a high quality battery.

I bought my glass matt sealed from napa and it was less than the Acid ones. size and cca tot he bike are deffintely the most important

Yasa is the way to go. Have had mine for almost 4 years now, never any issues, mantenance free.