I think it's the battery but wanted to hear opinions from the pros here. The bike will not start when cold. I charge the battery, put it in and starts with no problems. After it's warm, no problems. I checked voltage with bike running and it was around 14.5 volts. This is the 05 year so it has the finned r/r. I'm going to charge the battery and let it sit 24 hrs. to see if it loses voltage just sitting. Just got the bike and I think the guy let it sit too long. Can I use a walmart battery or is it necessary to buy the factory type? Thanks, Tim

 

sounds like battery to me as well. Check the voltage when idling and also about 3000 RPM, and even perhaps 5000. You'll want to make sure it's charging properly at all RPMs.

as for battery, I'd suggest you get a sealed unit, whereever you find it. they don't require adding water, and if you happen to tip over, you don't have to worry about acid spillage.

 

My bike is a '99 and uses the larger battery so the Walmart AGM (sealed) works well. I believe the battery compartment is smaller on the '01 and newer. Others have said they have stuffed the old style battery into the newer compartment, but they'll have to chime in.
In the mean time review this:
http://www.electrosport.com/technica...ding-guide.php

 

Yeah, carved up the battery box with the good old Dremel and put a larger battery in. 14.5 is a good charge rate. Cold weather start problem is a classic symptom of a weak battery cell. Later, when the weather is warm it will start fine a bunch of times, then with no warning you'll punch the start button and get nada. Dead cell(s).

Change it prophylacticly, you won't regret it. Promise.