TOPIC:

Sorry Gang should have posted what kind of ride I am having an issue with. (Posted this from work and got interuppted 1/2 dozen times.....)

1979 KZ650, 22000miles, completely stock.

Scenario:
Fully charged known good battery.
Bike will start on 3rd kick of kick starter.
If using the electric starter the starter acts as if the battery is dead e.g. barely turning.
Since this is my spare ride and it's barely used (less than 300 miles a year) I am always having to recharge the battery so it's hard to isolate if I am having a charging issue.
If I ride the bike for 20-30 miles turn off the engine and try to restart the electric starter behaves the same.
Any thoughts?

Rob

Post edited by: rtrider73, at: 2007/06/29 17:00

Most likely causes: Either you have a weak battery (has a 12-14 volt static reading, but unable to put out the amps/power needed to run the starter), or your starter is failing. It might help to check the starter brushes and clean the commutator. Also, have your battery checked, or just replace it with one you know is good.

Generally it takes a greater level of battery power/stronger starter to start a hot engine, since the engine tolerances are tighter due to expansion.