For those that really want to know the ins and outs of electrical storage there are a number of good sites on the internet. Here is a really simple explanation of the basic types.
http://www.windsun.com/Batteries/Battery_FAQ.htm
Depending on your application, heat, storage conditions, etc. you should be able to expect approximately 1000+ charge and discharge cycles. A trickle charger used with AGM or Valve regulated rechargeable batteries
WILL permanently damage and result in reduced capacity due to overcharging. Likewise using something like a car charger for a SLA battery will destroy it. I like the Valve regulated rechargeable as they they are equipped with a low pressure venting system, which releases excess pressure from overcharging if necessary.
I have this fascination with a solar powered kayak... Just have not implemented it yet. I will be talking to Doug when I am ready...
