Motorcycle Repair: 2001 Shadow VLX electrical, full time job, trickle charger

Question
Mark-
My problem is on my 2001 Honda Shadow VLX.  I replaced my battery with a new one in the spring after the old one died over winter.  I also installed a quick connect connector to plug my battery into a trickle charger when not in use.  I use this charger every time I return from a ride.  In the last month I have noticed that if I stop during a ride the bike may or may not have enough of a charge to start without pushing it.  Yesterday when I push-started the bike it seemed to be running on only one cylinder and had no throttle control.  I managed to limp the bike home that way with a lot of backfiring and stalls and noticed something odd on the way.  When I engaged the front brake enough to throw the brake switch I regained throttle control.  I could ride somewhat normally when I had the brake lever slightly pulled in.  I don't believe that I had any lights during the ride, certainly no 'neutral', 'turn' or 'high beam' indicator lights.  What do you think I should check first?  
Thanks,
Luke

Answer
Hi Luke,

Please excuse my late reply. I've been busy with a criminal trial every morning and afternoon this week, followed by full-time job as a Deputy Sheriff/Evidence Technician (hours of 1500-2330 hrs).


Reference the MC problem(s)...

Check battery lead connections for clean and tightly fastened connections. Check both ends of both leads.

Check alternator output with a multimeter.
1) Set the meter to the 20VDC scale (or similar).
2) Start engine and connect the Red + meter lead to the battery Positive + terminal. Connect the Black - meter lead to the battery Negative - terminal. Note charging voltage at idle.
4) Rev engine to between 3k and 5k rpm and note charging voltage. Voltage should be about 12.6 vold DC at idle and between 13.5 and 17 VDC at the higher rpm, generally. Exact charging voltage specs can be found in the service manual.

Check wiring for evidence of defects or loose connections. Rodents love to chew MC wiring.

Check the above and advise. We can go from there. I'll reply much sooner.

Remember, I return test and repair information files by email. There was no email address with your question as requested.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively