Motorcycle Repair: 1996 Honda Shadow American Classic 1100 misfiring, motorcycle battery, warm seasons

Question
The bike has not been ridden in a while (1yr) but was completetly serviced at that time. When I jump start it it runs well but when I remove the cables the bike misfires and will not allow gas intake to any degree.  Also I tried to charge the battery over night and it did not take the charge whatsoever.  Is this a spark plug problem, a battery problem or both?  Does a motorcycle battery need water?
Thanks for any advice.

Answer
Hi Mark,
Q: Is this a spark plug problem, a battery problem or both?
A: I suspect the battery needs replaced. If you have a VOM, test battery voltage. Sounds as if the battery is defective if not taking a charge.

A: Does a motorcycle battery need water? Yes, most MC batteries are servicable. Add distilled water, not electrolite (battery acid). Electrolite is made of water and sulpheric acid. Maintian battery fluid levels between the two lines printed on the battery; keep filled to the upper level. The water part of the acid evaporates. The acid part does not. Check the levels about every two weeks during warm seasons. Add distilled water ONLY to the battery as necessary. Charging is not needed after topping off cells.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively