Pinned How do I test my 12 Volt battery and charging system?

Static Battery Voltage Test

• Prior to conducting this test, make sure the battery has not been recently charged. You must wait at least one hour after charging your battery to conduct this test.
  
• Adjust voltmeter (multimeter) to DC volts (20 volt range).
  
• Place voltmeter leads to the battery terminals. (positive to positive and negative to negative)
  
• Read voltage and refer to the chart below.

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.

Charging System Test

• Adjust voltmeter to DC volts (20 volt range).
  
• Place voltmeter leads to the battery terminals. (positive to positive and negative to negative)
  
• Start your motorcycle.
  
• Bring engine RPM's up to approximately 3,000
  
• Compare the voltage reading to the specification in your owner's manual.
  (Note: the voltage reading should be approx. 14.0 - 14.5 volts to properly charge an AGM battery.)