Strange GS problem: Please help!!

[wypee]

I don't know whats wrong with my GS. After a break of 2 months, I tried to start it and I noticed that the engine runs poorly and it falters while the headlights and other lights were blinking. After a while it died and the starter motor won't even crank. Total silence!! I re-charged the battery and it started in a zip but same problem on the 2nd try.

What could be the problem? Its an old battery. Shall I get a new one? Or is it some other problem?

Thanks so much in advance for help.

[JamesG]

Yeah, sounds like the battery is toast and isn't holding a charge. But before you run out and buy a new battery, use a voltmeter to measure the voltage from the battery terminals with the bike running and not running. You should get a significatly higher reading with it running (13-18v) vs. shut off (10-12v). If the battery by itself reads under 10v or looses voltage rapidly the battery is a gonner.  But if the battery reads under 12v while running, then your generator or voltage regulator may be bad instead (hope for a batter).