Motorcycle Repair: Many bad batteries, battery minder, bells and whistles

Question
QUESTION: I have a 2002 Full-dresser with all the bells and whistles. Every year I have to replace the battery because it will only charge up to 8 or 9 volts. This is even with a battery minder on it all winter.The voltmeter always reads around 13 1/2 volts, but without an ammeter, I dont know if its putting out 2 amps or 52 amps. If my regulator is bad, would it cook the battery enuff to warp the plates and cause an internal short(thereby ruining the battery) and is the regulator inside the alternator or mounted externally? Do you sell regulators and what does one cost?

ANSWER: What brand of battery are you buying?
Mike

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: The batteries all came from my 2 local HD dealer.
A couple of my friends tell me their batteries are lasting 4 to 5 years.
I have to ask my original question again.    Thanks...Lee

Answer
If your regulator was bad, they usually fail closed not open. If it failed open your battery would cook while you are ridding the bike. The regulator is located on the front of the bike and not attached to the stator. I would do a OHMs test on the stator and also a AC volt test on the stator to make sure its working properly. I would also check the battery minder to make sure its working properly. If its not shutting off in it will ruin the battery
Good luck and happy riding
Mike