Motorcycle Repair: Starting problems, regulator rectifier, volt meter

Question
I have a 1999 Electra Glide Classic twin 88 1450cc.. bought it used...bought a new battery because i thought that was the problem with it not starting.. Started well first couple of days now it has drained the battery down again... could it be the altanater or is there something else i should be looking at? any thinbg u can tell me would be helpful... and aslo any other things i should be watching for in regards to mechanical problems with this paticular bike? thank u
dwight

Answer
Hi dwight
charge the battery and then use D.C. volt meter to read battery voltage. Now start the bike and read voltage at battery as you raise the idle up the voltage should also go up to about 14.2 volts. If the voltage is belowe where you started before you started the bike then it is your regulator/rectifier.