I just did some light work on the front end of the my 2008 GS500F. I had to disconnect the headlight and signal lights, modify the mount, and reconnect the headlight and signal lights.

The repair went quick with no issues, i took the bike for a test ride and it ran great. When i pulled into the garage after my ride, the bike died as soon as i came to a stop. All electrical power just stopped... nothing... Turning the key doesn't turn on headlight, or light up the neutral indicator while in neutral.

I checked the fuse, and it was fine. no breaks, no corrosion. I checked all the connections I had disconnected, and they were all tight. I went through to see if i had pinched a wire, nothing.

Any idea what could have happened?

Sounds like there may be an issue with the charging system.  Check the battery voltage and the connections for the stator and regulator/rectifier.

Battery voltage and connections are fine. I haven't checked the stator or regulator/rectifier as of yet.

I don't think that a problem with the charging system would account for the abrupt shut off would it? Everything about this screams blown fuse, but like i said, its free from breaks.

I am so very confused...

Only thing that jumps to mind is a loose ignition connector..

Your checking the correct fuse & not the spare?

Ok - had a look at the Haynes book of words - section 14 (right at the back)

• Broken battery terminal making only occasional contact
• Battery Cables making poor contact
• Load Excessive
• Ignition switch defective
• Regulator / Rectifier Defective
• Alternator Stator coil open or shorted
• Wiring faulty. Wiring grounded or connections loose in ignition, charging or lighting circuits

I replaced my GS battery and went for a spin no problems - went to stop and the battery rocked forward sightly and made contact with the rear brake fluid reservoir. That short period was enough to blow a cell in the battery and didnt take out the master fuse since the fuse is not protecting a very small portion of the circuit from the positive terminal. If I bump started the GS would run like crap at idle and would peg out if you gave it some gas

Let us know if you find the cause, be interested to know if it was the regulator / stator etc.

Quote from: fetor56 on November 06, 2013, 09:59:45 PM
Your checking the correct fuse & not the spare?

^^ This!!

Thanks for the faith in my ability to find the right fuse... Always good to make sure someone isn't making a mistake like that.

Anyway, I found the problem. After i removed the gas tank, I could see that the connector for the ignition was loose. I must have tugged on it somehow when i was removing the fairing. I'm still a little puzzled why the bike only died why i got it back home... must have just been the straw the broke the donkeys back. but i guess it's best not to dwell on these things to hard.

Sorry everyone for not having a more interesting solution or problem. I'm just glad it didn't cost me a cent!

Thanks all for the help!

Really strange it came loose - I recently had to replace the whole ignition after a numpty put a screw driver into it.  Took a lot of effort to unplug mine...

Glad you had a free fix 

Good you sorted it out bro! ..

The fuse thing ... It's a semi frequent mistake by a LOT of new riders! .. Not targeted at your ability  .. If you are new here we don't fully know what previous experience you have and sometimes resort to the more common previous 'solutions' 

No harm meant!