Motorcycle Repair: Battery not holding charge, charging system, spark plugs

Question
Hello Mark,
I have a Honda CBR600 1997 reg. Ever since I got it (about 6months ago) I have had intermittent starting up problems. Sometimes the bike starts first time and other times it really struggles or is just completely dead. I have put a brand new battery on it and have had the rectifier checked out which is fine.
Do you have any suggestions
email me on Judepovey@netscape.net

Answer
Hi Carl,

Can you provide any history of service and repairs between you and the prior owners? Was the MC stored awhile? Any additional intel is helpful with diagnosis.

Remove the spark plugs and inspect them. Remember which cylinder each plug is removed from. Visit "www.ngk.com/sparkplug411.asp" and look at "Plug Problems" links. Compare your plugs to those shown and let me know which plugs most closely compare with your MC's plugs.

Do you have a VOM (multimeter)? Do you know how to perform an output test to check the charging system? If not, I can send the files to your email address. Let me know.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively