ABCs Of Jumpstarting A Dead Motorcycle Battery

A motorcycle battery provides additional power supply whenever the motorcycle needs more electrical power; it also functions as an absorber of irregular electrical surges in the motorcycle; and above all, it is the sole instrument that turns the engine on through electric starters, which is now widely-used in motorcycles.

However, a motorcycle battery discharges at an average of one percent of its power every single day; so before you know it your motorcycle battery is too weak to be an electrical component of your bike. A dead battery can be very inconvenient. The only recourse you have is to jump start a dead or weak motorcycle battery which could be a very tricky process. Read on for various tips on jump starting a dead motorcycle battery.

Jumping A Battery Using A Car

First, position the bike in such a way that jumper cables can easily extend to reach the batteries of the car and the motorcycle. Second, attach the two positive clips—often the red clips-- of the jumper cables to the positive terminals of both car and motorcycle batteries. Third, attach the two negative clips—often the black clips—of the jumper cable to the negative terminal of the car battery and the frame of the motorcycle; but if a suitable frame location can not be accessed, attach the other negative clip on the negative terminal of the motorcycle battery. Finally, start the motorcycle and remove the jumper cables in the order in which they were attached as soon as the engine fires up.

When jumping a motorcycle battery from a car, always remember not to start the car engine. Otherwise, some electrical components of the motorcycle may be permanently damaged due to incompatibilities between car and motorcycle.

Jumping A Battery Using Another Bike

There isn't much difference in procedure when jumping a dead battery using another bike with good battery. The steps above can be followed. But between motorcycles, if a good frame location can be found, you can try attaching the negative clips—black clips-- on to the frames of the motorcycles instead of the negative terminals of the batteries.

Go Downhill Or Be Pushed

To jump start an electrically dead motorcycle, you can have your friends push you or free wheel downhill. Before you go with the ride, remember to turn on the ignition and gas, as you ensure a run position mode on the KILL switch. Pull the clutch and shift to second gear. As you begin the free wheeling, let go of the clutch upon attaining average speed; then the bike should start after some chokes.