Motorcycle Repair: 1995 Suzuki RF600, battery monitor, electrical problem

Question
I have a 1995 Suzuki RF600 with some sort of electrical problem. I just bought a new battery because i thought the old one wasnt holding its charge after sitting all winter. I installed a new battery and it started right up. I charged the battery for the recommended 11hours. It started right up but after about 45 minutes of riding i noticed my instrument panel was starting to dim on me. By the time I just made it home she was completely dead. I tried it the next day and it started right up. i read the voltage when it was running and not running. when it was running the voltage was dropping and when i shut it off the battery would recharge itself slowly. i just dont know if its some kind of short or what.

Answer
Hi Mike,

It's possible to get a new defective battery. However, I suspect the charging system is not working properly.

Get a copy of the service manual and learn about performing an output test on the alterator. Simply connect a voltmeter (VOM) to the battery. Monitor voltage with engine at idle and again with engine speed above 3-5k rpm depending upon specs and procedures.

Visit Electro Sport's website and follow their "Fault Finding Chart.

"https://www.electrosport.com/electrosport_fault_finding.html

Respectfully,
Mark Shively