I never said batteries can't just die without warning. They certainly do. I said they NORMALY give you clues, IE hard starting. As for factory gel cells that is just what my parts counter person at the dealer told me. I guess it is not abnormal for the guy schlepping parts not to know his a$$ from a hole in the ground though!. I just never gave it a second thought when he told me that because it makes so much sense to put a gel in something that shakes like that....
I still believe buying a new battery every year or two just because is silly. They are designed to and NORMALY do last longer. I also don't think motorcycle batteries are hard to find in a pinch. Wal Mart has something on the cheap I guarantee will fit well enough to get you home. Then again, I am the guy who bellyaches about spending only $1500.00 to replace cam tensioner shoes...
I need to get out and ride, I am starting to get squirrelly...