Tried to start my 98 VTR today, pushed the starter switch and heard a click from the starter relay and then no power at all. No headlight or any power at all. Pulled the 30 amp fuse from the starter relay and it seemed to reset the switch. Put the fuse back in, turned the key back on and got the lights and power on. Pushed the starter button again got another click from the starter relay and then no power at all again. Did this 3 or 4 times and then no power will come on at all, no lights, no clicking, no anything. Tried to jump it from a car battery and same results. The bike never sees rain and is garaged. Zero corrosion. Battery volts are 12.65. Put a meter on it and the battery has 12.65 volts when the key is off but as soon as I turn the key to the on position it kills the volts to under 1 volt at the battery.


I did research the threads but didn't see this exact issue. Before I go replacing the wrong parts I was hoping someone had a similar experience and would be willing to offer a suggestion of a possible solution. Thank you for replies.

 

Have the battery tested

 

Start by cleaning your posts and cable ends. Summer humidity can cause a shut down with a thin layer of corrosion.

 

Dead cell in the battery.

 

Long shot, check for corrosion on the starter post where the power cable goes!

 

You need a new battery. :O(

 

If your bike is not already converted to a MOSFET regulator rectifier this would be a good time to do it.

 

Definitely a correct or loose connection somewhere. The car battery should have started it no problem, so something isn't allowing the juice to get where it needs to be.