98 vtr 1000, bike started fine rode it 15 min and it sat for 45 min, when I went to start it again it was completely dead no lights no nothing, got it bump started and rode it about 20 min before it completely died, only sparking every few seconds and backfiring. I'm thinking rectifier as I've heard those are notorious for failing, maybe stator?

 

When you first have ownership of a SH address all the known shortcomings that Mr. Honda built in. After that the reliability is very solid. A good discount on fuel is nice too, as you need it often.
Most likely the R/R if you have not upgraded it. Take a look at the connector under the seat right at the tank inside a sleeve. Often time it will be burned/melted. A failure of the R/R can also, depending, cook the battery. Wonder if you have done anything with the CCT's?

 

I've only had the bike for a couple months, haven't done anything with the tensioner and it probably needs it as it sounds like *** sometimes. It was the r/r it looks like someone already upgraded it but it still failed. Got a new battery and a cheap r/r as I need it up and running since it's my only vehicle. Plan on ordering a mosfet one asap.