So I've had my 2004 GS500 for about two years now, and I keep running into the same problem. After a couple of days out in the cold, the bike never starts on its own. It doesn't even turn over. I start it with a jump and let it run for a while, then it'll die again in the next couple of days. I replaced the battery last year, and I'm thinking it's the alternator (or the bike equivalent since I doubt its the same).

Does anyone have any insight into this? I'd love to clarify if you have more questions...I just want this bike to start reliably!

Thanks!

http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=38480.0

Here it is. Just put a little work on this.

My bike was like yours and it happen to be a loose cable I found while was testing the system.

Plus, if you don't ride it often and it's cold outside, the battery won't hold a charge even if it's new. Battery tenders help with that.

Hi,Rectifier/Regulater well worth checking,not the strongest point on a GS5.Changes current from AC to DC and regulates voltage they tend to wearout in winter when under strain.Check voltage across battery with bike running,lights on and a charged batt`should kickout 13-14.5volts if lower chances are regulater acting up(well worth cleaning connectors plugs before renewing)and finding thread to check alternater output (rarely go wrong).Reg/Rec` located behind right hand side panel about 3 inch square with cooling fins.Most yamaha units have same wires different plugs.