Starting/battery life issues

My '99 RSV is currently refusing to fire. I daresay a service is overdue, and I'll get round to it when the temperature rises above freezing. But what worries me is I only get two stabs at starting it before the battery is totally fooked and the bike won't turn over.

The last time I had the bike running the display showed 13.6 to 13.8 volts at tickover, which seems reasonable, but does it sound right to you?

If you have any tips on making the bike a more reliable starter, I'd love to hear them.

Alan, there are many post about poor starting on RSV's, a simple search will bring up all your answers. Quite simply you need a new YTX14-BS or YTZ14S-BS battery and as your bike's starter solenoid will be well past it's best by now, get a new uprated one :thumbup.

Also buy an OPTIMATE 4

Got the optimate, what's the best/simplest reg/rec to go for?

Alan Haskins said:

Got the optimate, what's the best/simplest reg/rec to go for?

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I think you mean starter solenoid rather than reg/rec ( regulator / rectifier :dunno )

Again you'll find it all in a simple search but here it is anyway

Yamaha starter solenoid part number 4KD81940-00 about £30 from any yamaha dealer or speak to Fusebox at Aprilia Performance who has some uprated ones

When using a optimate constantly, keep a eye on the fluid level.
During charging fluid evaporates and all tow it is a closed system you still lose some fluid.
You can empty a battery in 2 years.
If you have problems starting your bike I would check first the contacts on the battery.
Clean them and apply some grease to prevent oxidation.
While you have the + lead off, check the contact on the starter engine, just take the right panel of and it is easy accessible.
Don’t worry making contact with the wrench since you have the + lead of the battery.
Undo it, sand it and apply some grease.
While you are at it clean the contacts on the starter relay.
Next easy check is to shorten the start relay with a screw driver.
If you starter runs faster shorted , you have 2 possibilities.
Or the starter button needs cleaning or the relay needs to be replaced.
Just to check it the earth is ok, take a jumpstart cable and put one clamp on the – of the battery and the other on the frame.

If this does not help call Houston !!

You have a problem!!

Or just move to a house on a hill

LEGS said:

I think you mean starter solenoid rather than reg/rec

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Yup, I was typing with brain disengaged. Thanks guys.

Dr Rossi, the battery terminal thing is a good shout, mine ain't the cleanest. Will check it all out.:thumbup