Motorcycle Repair: Battery Problems, electrical diagnosis, motorcycle batteries

Question
My email:philbruce17@hotmail.com

Hi,

I have a Yamaha R6 (YZFR6) year 2000 model. The battery went flat because I left the heated grips on. The bike is mint and I have never had a problem with it. I tried to charge but it wasn't recoverable. The battery I had was GT12B-4 and the shop I went to advised the manufacturer equivalent of YT12B4. I connected the battery correctly and used a suitable battery charger for about 10 hours. The alarm works and the LEDs light up and the digital clocks light up. The ignition does not work and all I get is a strange sound like its sparking but not engaging.

Can you help?

thanks,

Phil.

Answer
Hi Phil,

I cannot diagnose this problem from the description provided. I would need to perform electrical diagnosis.

Check battery voltage with a VOM (multimeter).

Check specific gravity of each cell with a hydrometer designed for motorcycle batteries.

Electrical diagnosis includes inspection of components and conductors. Check wiring and connectors for corrosion, clean and tight connections.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively