Motorcycle Repair: 1983 yamaha midnight virago 920, load test, current connection

Question
My husband is having trouble figuring out what is wrong with his bike, it has a hard time turning over when he starts it up and shuts down sometimes after it has been running for a while.
Could it be the starter?

Answer
Christine,
  If by "turning over" you mean the starter seems to have a tough time even turning the engine, you could be dealing with a one or more of three possible causes:

1)  The battery is in need of a charge or replacement.  Have a "load test" done on the battery if you question it.

2)  You have poor contact at the battery, starter or solinoid (the low voltage switch that actually makes the high current connection from the battery to the starter motor).

3)  You are dealing with an ailing starter and it needs replacement.

I am assuming the engine runs fine when started and the there are no serious ills causing the stater undo stress.

If you have a decompression valve, be sure it is moving upon startup.

Mike