Starting Problems

[Sean O.]

Hi. I've got some starting problems. The bike was starting after a long charge. No longer. I can start it by the old method of popping ye old clutch in 2nd gear. When I try your standard start the lights dim, & I get no joy. So far, I've done the following:

(1) Checked the battery (including CCA) with Autozone, who said it was good.

(2) Checked the battery cables when running, battery disconnected. Good power there. 

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[qcbaker]

If you can totally eliminate the battery as the issue, maybe try replacing the starter motor?

[rscottlow]

Can you test the voltage to the starter to make sure it's getting the appropriate amount of power from the battery?

[Sean O.]

Any tips on checking the starter?

[Jim Moore]

Check the cranking voltage with a multi-meter. It shouldn't drop below 11 volts or so. Tyr jumping it off a (non-running) car battery. Does it start? Get it running, then check the voltage at the battery at about 5K rpm. It should be around 14 volts.

[Sean O.]

Thanks all! I will try it when I get home.