Honda Motorcycle Service Manual page 356

:.Batteriks can be damaged if overcharged or undercharged, or i f left to discharge for long periods. These same conditions
contribute to shortening the "life span" of the banery. Even under normal use, the performance of batteries deteriorates
after 2-3 years.
e Battery voltage may recover after battery charging. However, if the banery is subjected t o a heavier load than it is
designed for, the battery voltage will drop quickly and eventually die out (even if the charging system is working pro-
perly).
e
A.
battery overcharge symptom may be caused by a shorted battery cell. If one of the battery cells is shorted, battery
voltage' will not increase to the specified level. Under these conditions, the regulator allows the alternator to supply
excess voltage to the battery and the electrolyte level will drop quickly.
e
Before troubleshooting the charging system, check for proper use and maintenance of the battery. Check if the battery is
frequently under heavy load, such as having the headlight and taillight ON for long periods of time without the engine
rutitling.
e The battery will self-discharge if allowed to sta'nd idle for a long time. For this reason, charge the battery every t w o weeks
to prevent sulfation from forming when the vehicle is not in use.
e Filling a new battery with electrolyte will produce some voltage, but will not allow the banery t o achieve its maximum
performance. Therefore, you should always charge a new battery. Battery life is lengthened when a new battery is
charged before installation.
e
When checking the charging system, always follow the steps in the troubleshooting flow chart.
e Question the customer to determine how his riding habits affect battery charging:
-
High rpm riding may overcharge the battery (on motorcycles without a regulator)
-
Low rpm riding with frequent brake/brake light usage may result in discharging the battery.
Date of Issue: March, 1995
O
HONDA MOTOR CO.,LTD.