Motorcycle Repair: Honda Rebel electrical problems, electrical tests, electrical problem

Question
I have a '96 Honda CMX 250 Rebel that is driven infrequently.  It is also exposed to the elements during the riding season.  I now have an electrical problem that I want to pinpoint.  Bike will not crank on start, makes a clicking sound and the lights start to go dim if at all.  I got a brand new battery and it started right up the first and only time and then the same problem.  The only way to get it started now is if I charge the battery and with the charger still connected, push the ignition switch (takes a few attempts).  I notice that once the bike gets going, there is a lag between the time I push the horn and when it actually sounds and the lights seem to dim intermittently.  I was going to perform some voltage tests but I'm not too sure what I would be looking for.  Thank you for any help you can give me.  

Answer
Hi Antonia,

Electrical problems are difficult to diagnose without being present with the MC and performing electrical tests.

From your description and without investigating the MC, I suspect corroded electrical connections are causing the problem.

Send me an email and I'll return several test files that may assist you. You'll need to obtain the Service Manual to learn specific how-to test procedures and exact test specs.

My email address is: mshively1@woh.rr.com

Respectfully,
Mark Shively