Hey all! Looking for some input. Went to go for a ride this afternoon and my bike wouldn’t start. Turning over heavy and wouldn’t kick. Then I could smell something burning so I pulled the seat and tried it again and the ground on the battery was arcing. Just wondering if this sounds like a compensator? Bought the bike used with over 60k miles on it and have no idea when it was ever replaced. Any help is appreciated.

 

You are lucky just loose battery cable. That is why arcing.

Cracks me up though you read about comps going so think that is it.

They don't alk get replaced, not a wear item.

 

Could be all it is, just thought that could be the problem. The bike is hard to start sometimes when it’s hot.

 

My 07 has been off and on for few years. I am putting in starter clutch. Battery is 12.4, which is low. But often do we really check? Also been doing it for few years when battery was newer. Did it this year after was on charger and ride. I do Think originally it showed up when bike wax not ran for while.

My other bike doesn't get run a Lot in cool weather, has after market starter and never grinds.

But maybe yours has been grinding cause loose cables, causing low voltage. Tighten. Still does it, I would go bigger starter or starter clutch. I have 60k on my 07, I chalk up to wear.

 

Pulled the seat off last night after I got home from work last night, ground cable was a bit loose so figured I'd check the live and that was loose too. Easy fix and something I should check more often but just let it slide I guess.

 

It surprising how often it happens, and how just a tiny put makes a difference. Moves at all, can be it. Dark garage you can sometimes see it. Clean and tight, is goo for electrical connections too. Dirty and loose can be hot.