Motorcycle Repair: 1983 Honda Nighthawk CB650 - dead battery, 1983 honda nighthawk, vdc systems

Question
The parking light probably drained my battery. I tried to use a car booster (12V); kept it for about 15 minutes. Nothing happened. Now I am scared that I might have connected the terminals wrong. How should I recharge the battery? What would go wrong if I had connected the terminals wrong?
Appreciate all your help.
THankx.

Answer
Hi Dipanjan,

Use a multi-meter (VOM) to check battery voltage. Use a hydrometer to check individual battery cell specific gravity.

Use a battery charger with a charging rate of 1/10 the battery's ampre hour rating. In other words, try a 1 amp charger.

Never jump start a motorcycle from a car or truck. They are 12 VDC systems, but their amperage is much higher than a MC and will damaged the MC's electrics.

If you connected cables im reverse polarity, the charger is likey damaged. The MC electrics may be damaged, too. Depends on the circuit and current flow. If necessary, test circuit components and verify their integrity.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively