Starting Load Test

  • Adjust voltmeter to DC volts (20 volt range).
  • Place voltmeter leads to the battery terminals. (positive to positive and negative to negative)
  • Watch the voltmeter as you start your motorcycle.
  • If the voltage drops below 9.5 volts, the battery has very low capacity and should be replaced.
  • Start with a fully charged battery @ 12.7 volts
  • If the volts do drop and continue to drop from 10 volts, your battery has gone south
  • Further charging and carbon pile testing may not improve what you already know
  • A battery tender IMO is a BIG plus
  • If your battery is a non sealed one, a hydrometer is a very good cheap tool and a MUST have IMO
  • A cheap one can be had for about five dollars