Flat battery - short journeys cause this?

[Zorba]

Hi All,

Just got my 99 SV last week and been running it into work everyday (3 miles!). This morning I went to start it and it didn't catch straight away & drainned the battery. I've spoken with the local Bike guy and he said that the short runs I'm doing could cause the battery to not charge as I'm running my lights all the time (even when warming it up).

It does make sense but just wanted others opions as to if they think this could cause it....... forgot to mention when I got home it did start up and I'll be taking it for a nice run soon to try to charge the battery a bit.

[maviczap]

Battery might be on the way out

Mine started up fine, but just before the battery went, even the parking light would drain it quick.

If not the dreaded reg/rec problem

Do a search on here for the answers

[Zorba]

Thanks, just before I brought the bike they installed a new battery. Really hoping that its not the dreaded reg/rec problem

[yorkie_chris]

Well charge the battery and check the charging system... if it is the reg rec then you don't want to add a new battery to the bill...

[embee]

.......and don't leave it idling to warm up, there really is no benefit to be had. Start it, let it settle for 20-30sec or so, ride off gently. Don't give it beans until it has warmed up properly, a few miles typically.

Useful charging system check flow chart
http://www.electrosport.com/technical-resources/library/diagnosis/pdf/fault-finding-diagram.pdf

A cheap multimeter is a worthwhile investment, no real need to spend lots of money if you're not going to be using it in anger, they can be had for £5 or £10.

[mep]

I once bought a new Yausa battery and it was a dud - It does happen. I replaced it with a lovely new Motobatt one that was the business.

3 miles to work! I moved house and now live 2.5 miles from work and cycle in as I do not want to ruin my SV with such regular short journeys. I'm not syaing you should cycle but long term this will not help your battery, engine or fuel consumption. Is there a 'long way round' you can use for your commute that is about 5-6 miles?

Edit - consider a battery optimser of some sort.

[Zorba]

Thanks everyone, since not having the lights on and doing larger runs (6 miles) to & from work its all sorted!

I know I should cycle to work but in truth I'm very lazy and like the idea to riding to work! Hopefully this wont ruin my SV as my wife said to me the other day "its like you've fallen in love with someone else"........

[yorkie_chris]

If it does flatten it if you use the lights I would definitely recommend you check the charging with a voltmeter, it is a 10 minute job.

[Sid Squid]

Thanks everyone, since not having the lights on and doing larger runs (6 miles) to & from work its all sorted!.
If it does flatten it if you use the lights I would definitely recommend you check the charging with a voltmeter, it is a 10 minute job.
Agreed. If it can't support the lights then the charging system is weak.

[Zorba]

Understood, time to hit up my neighbour for his voltmeter, thanks for the advise guys!

[Heefy]

I would put money on the reg/rec. sorry.

H

[Zorba]

Just found and sorted the problem (well my mechanic did), it was one of the wire connectors that was corroded, after changing it the system now charges correctly (it was only charging at about 1/3 of what it should).

So pleased that I'll be able to go for a ride this weekend now!!

[Geodude]

Glad you got it sorted. What connector was it that was corroded?

[kellyjo]

Out of interest who did you get to look at it? Im always trying to find new local people to take my bike to.

[Sir Trev]

Just found and sorted the problem (well my mechanic did), it was one of the wire connectors that was corroded, after changing it the system now charges correctly (it was only charging at about 1/3 of what it should).

So pleased that I'll be able to go for a ride this weekend now!!

I had the dirty connector problem once too. Every year or so now I pull the blocks apart and sqirt in a good dose of electrical contact cleaner, jiggling things in and out (stop that sniggering) to work the stuff into the tangs. Even if you only do the charging circuit it's a simple job that will help eliminate one of the problems all bikes could face.

[Zorba]

Glad you got it sorted. What connector was it that was corroded?

Not to sure which one but I think he said it was a negitive (i'll ask him next week if you want)

Out of interest who did you get to look at it? Im always trying to find new local people to take my bike to.

It was Steve in Ramsey, really top bloke and loves Sv's to boot :D:D!! Would recomend him to anyone, helps you out with adivce when you need it and generally thinks as a biker not someone out to make money (although i always try to make sure he stays in business!).

[Geodude]

Yes please Zorba, its worth knowing for future reference. xGx