Motorcycle Repair: Electrical trouble 1987 Shadow VT700C, electrical trouble, high beam

Question
i have a 1987 Shadow VT700C that i was experiencing starting trouble.  sometimes wouldn't start without jump start.  that recently changed to an electrical short + to - across tha battery once i turn the ignition switch on.  i've been poking around and see shorts in 4 different circuits - ignition, headlight (when i turn high beam on), tail light (when i press the brake), and neutral indication.  hard to believe i have 4 seperate shorts at the same time.  any suggestions as to a commonality?  or any suggestions at all?

Answer
Hi Susan,

I do not understand what's happening. Can you describe in more detail these short circuit conditions? What exactly do you see?

Please reply and we'll go from there. Please include an email address as requested. I return test and repair files via email.

FYI... never use a car or truck to jump start a motorcycle. Voltage is same, but current is greater and may damage electronics and battery.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively

mshively1@woh.rr.com