Even if you think you might need a tow, you should know how to jump-start a motorcycle. Even if it looks like you will need to call for a tow, motorcycle jump-starting is an easy task. The Drive’s gear experts have some helpful tips to get you back on the road. Read on to learn how to start a motorcycle with a dead battery.
Symptoms of a dead or dying motorcycle battery
When a motorcycle battery is not holding a charge, it can cause a number of problems. Among these are the inability of the bike to start or maintain a full charge. A dying battery is not able to maintain a full charge even when recharged. In addition, a dead or dying battery can cause an alternator to drain the battery or fail to hold a charge.
To diagnose the cause of a dying motorcycle battery, start by checking for the following signs. If the radio, headlight, and other electrical components are dim or nonfunctional, it’s likely that the battery is dead or dying. If none of these signs are present, check the motorcycle’s electrical system to rule out a faulty alternator or damaged battery. If none of these warning signs apply to your bike, it may be time to get a new battery.
Recharge a dead battery
Recharge a dead battery to start t he motorcycle. Usually, you have to use a jumper cable and connect it to the positive terminal of the good battery. Then, attach the negative clip to the negative terminal of the dead bike. The two ends of the cable should be touching each other, so make sure you do not connect them wrongly. Then, the bike should start. This process may take a few attempts, so be patient.
The first step is to diagnose the problem. A multimeter is useful for checking the voltage of a dead motorcycle battery. The multimeter should be connected to the battery terminals, which are red and black. Set the voltage reading according to the manual. If you still can’t start the motorcycle, you need to purchase a new battery. Alternatively, you can use a portable power pack. But if your battery has already failed to start, you should charge it first.
Check for signs of physical damage
The first step in mechanical diagnosis is to look for physical damage to the motorcycle battery. A battery that is not holding a charge is not dead – it’s just bad. In some cases, a faulty alternator can also contribute to a dead battery. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to solve this problem before you need a mechanic.
Before trying to jump-start a motorcycle with a dead battery, first make sure that the battery is not damaged physically. A broken terminal, a crack, or discoloration may signal a damaged battery. Moreover, corrosion around the terminals will negatively impact the ability of the battery to start the motorcycle. If you suspect a bad battery, make sure to check its voltage with an automotive voltmeter or multimeter. If the voltage is low, the battery is not good, and you should put it on a charger or replace it.
Check for signs of a bad battery
Before attempting to start a motorcycle with a dead or depleted battery, you need to check the motorcycle battery for any obvious signs of a bad or damaged one. If you see signs of a leaking, cracked or bulging battery, it is time to replace it. A high-quality motorcycle battery should have a lifespan of around four years, and should be replaced as soon as possible.
Another way to detect a dead or faulty battery is by manually checking all the electrical connectors on your motorcycle. Sometimes, the problem lies in the battery itself, and you can easily check the battery by removing the cap and tightening the connectors. Then, if you notice the connection between the battery and the starter is loose, it is likely to be a dead battery.