Motorcycle Repair: bad alternator or battery, suzuki bandit 600, disc brakes

Question
Hi Sam,

While riding my bike (1998 Suzuki Bandit 600) tonight I noticed that when I applied the turn signal, the headlight dimmed when the turn signaled flashed, and became bright again when the signal was off.  The headlight only dim's sightly.  The bike starts up fine from a both cold and hot start and runs like a champ.

Also...

The bike has 2 front disc brakes and one rear disc.  The rear disk seems pretty weak (especially compared to the front), but I was able to 'lock' it up in a vacant parking lot.  How do you know when new brakes are needed?  I just bought the bike (private party) 3 months ago so I don't have service records.

Also... If you have any idea how much these repairs cost, that would be very helpful

Thanks

Matt

Answer
It is okay for the headlight to dim slightly when the turn signals are engaged, Adjust the rear brake at the rear wheel to tighten up your stopping power, if your brakes squeak after adjustment (only adjust enough to get the desired stopping power) replace pads. As far as cost... every shop is different, sorry.