Motorcycle Repair: start up, kawasaki ninja, electrical diagnosis

Question
I own a 1992 250cc kawasaki ninja. I replaced the battery yesterday. I mistakedly put the battery in backwards and...you might have guessed it...it sparked.  After I put the battery in the right way, I checked the fuse box to make sure they were good...and they were. The bike won't start, not even an idiot light. Where should I look next? Thanks for any help you can give.

Answer
Hi Trisha,

Quick Test:
Try installing another battery to quickly test integrity of the electrical system. Borrow your friend's MC battery for the test. : ) It won't harm anything.

Long Test:
Check battery voltage with a multimeter (VOM).

Check specific gravity of each battery cell with a hydrometer designed for MC batteries.


If the problem exists with a known good battery, I recommend having a local Kawasaki dealer perform electrical diagnosis to find the source of the problem.

Reversing battery polarity may have damaged delicate electronics (CDI).

Note: I return test and repair information files to you by email. There was no email address with your question as requested.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively