TahoesHateMe

This is a quick, non-comprehensive battery and charging system check. The article is applicable to most bikes or automobiles.

With the ignition OFF, remove whatever is needed to gain access to the battery terminals.

Typicaly on a bike you need to remove the seat.

Measure the DC voltage of the battery. You should see between 12v and 13.8v on a good battery without the engine running. 6x2.1v cells =13.8v.

Voltage meters can be purchased at any tool store, autoparts store. You may be able to rent one since a few autoparts stores have a tool rental program (Autozone, Pepboys). If you want to buy one and you'll use it alot and don't mind spending few extra $$$. Fluke makes an great line of multimeters.


Start the bike and measure the DC voltage again. The voltage should read more than 14 volts with the engine running. If the voltage is lower, raise the idle slightly. Also hold the RPM at approx 2000-3000 rpm looking for a steady voltage increase. If there is still no increase in voltage the charging system needs to be verified.

I would rec that you do further diagnosis with the shop manual so stator testing won't be covered here. All the info for that will be detailed in the proper service manual for the make and model of your motorcycle.