Electrical Problems

[MrPMS]

I finally completed a long-sought goal of changing to shorter, lower handlebars on my 2008 R12R.I used the bars from the F800ST along with a set of reversed bar-backs from Moto Techniques, and the first ride of about 15 minutes, the change proved to be everything I expected; the handling and ergos are now much better suited to my tastes and I was very happy with the results.
However, after a short break to reinstall the windshield the bike refused to start. When the key is turned on, all looks well and normal on the dashboard but when I hit the starter button everything shuts down, the battery voltage drops from 12.7 to 4.5, and various clickings ensue. After resetting, everything repeats.
I've tried recharging the battery and jumping with a car, which will start it and allow it to run fine in neutral or gear with the clutch in, but after trying to go a short distance the motor dies and will not restart. I've gone through all the handlebar switchgear that was disturbed and cannot find any problems. Any HELP!

[mogu83]

I assume you've double checked your wiring looking for something that was squashed by a clamp or handlebar mount.
Another possibility is a bad battery. I had an AGM (what we have) go bad when I touched the positive to ground for just an instant. As luck would have it, one of my other bikes used the same size battery so a fast swap proved the battery was bad.

Good Luck, when you have time post some pictures of the bars. Sounds interesting.

[MrPMS]

I've looked over the wiring very closely and removed and replaced a number of Zip-ties. Also, the battery was new at the dealer about 12 months ago. I do plan to try another today as this one has a 2 year warranty.
As for photos, I plan to post some soon.

[Faylo]

Maybe one of the zip ties you replaced is pinching or binding a wire? Make sure the zip ties are just tight enough to keep things from moving around and not too tight. Otherwise, it sounds like a battery failure.

[nylife]

it sure sounds like a dead battery.
If you can start the bike when jumping from the car and bike runs, to me that mean all the cables are ok

[dbrick]

I agree it's most likely the battery. Sudden battery death is not uncommon with the factory AGMs.

[deilenberger]

You're giving the exact description of a failed Exide battery. It goes open when enough current is drawn. If the dealer quibbles - have them run a load test on the battery - it WILL fail.

It's new battery time - that one is kaput, dead, nailed to the perch, gone to meet it's maker.. a warranty is a good thing to have.

[MrPMS]

Thank you everyone who guessed it was the battery! After reading the various blogs on the subject, I pulled the one from my trusty R90S and the bike fired right up. My dealer said this was very unusual with a 14 month old Exide, but will replace it at no charge (no pun intended) if it proves to be defective. I countered with the fact that numerous blogs on the subject indicate otherwise...
Thanks again to all. This site is invaluable!!

[Gatuso]

Now how about some photos of your new handlebars, I would like to go that route also.

Lates.

[2wheelfish]

Riding around yesterday I thought about this post, very interested in the bar you chose, let's see some pics!

[jkhomes]

This sounds like a mild "S" mod, and something I am very interested in. I seem to recall a thread where someone had a problem with the handlebar hitting something. Maybe it was the horn button hitting the tank. Any other information or links about this modification to an R1200R are much appreciated! There is a good chance I will go for it.

[MrPMS]

Everyone who has asked about the F800ST bars, I have a number of photos but am frustrated with the posting process! Any better tips than what has been published so far??

[dbrick]

MrPMS,

The first post in this thread:

viewtopic.php?f=20&t=22702&p=200080&hilit=img#p200080

should give you some assistance about linking to photos. Photos can't be posted directly on this board, but can be linked from other locations.