I went to start my 2009 Vulcan EN500C, it turned over for a split second and then completely died. No power or juice whatsoever. No lights, horn, etc. (as if it had no battery at all). Theses Tennessee back roads are calling me - so any help or advice would be GREATLY appreciated.
Background ....
Bike has just under 5,800 miles
Battery reads good at 12.65v (18 months old - maintenance free gel type)
Battery terminals are clean and tight
I've already been out riding several times this season with no indications of battery (or any other) problems
All fuses have been checked - none where bad (lncluding the 30 amp main fuse)
Already swapped ignition switch (waste of time and money)
Thanks for any insight you might have,
Batetheskate (TN)
Won't Start - Completely Dead
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- Posts: 3
- Joined: Wed Apr 20, 2016 2:52 pm
- I ride: 2009 red Vulcan 500 LTD
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- Posts: 3
- Joined: Wed Apr 20, 2016 2:52 pm
- I ride: 2009 red Vulcan 500 LTD
Re: Won't Start - Completely Dead
Well don't I feel stupid! Turns out it was the battery after all. The volts were good (12.65) but the amps were zero! So much for those maintenance-free gel types - it lasted less than a standard type.
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- I ride: '94 Black Cherry Vulcan 500, '06 Candyfire Red Vulcan 500 LTD
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Re: Won't Start - Completely Dead
I've heard bad things about gel batteries similar to your story. I'd recommend you look for an AGM (absorbed glass mat) battery. Like GEL they are maintenance free but supposedly last longer than the stock flooded type batteries. I picked up a MotoBatt MB12U from amazon in November 2014. I never charged it and never put it on a battery tender over winter. It's still young at about 1.5 years old. I also like that it has extra battery terminals for accessories.
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- Posts: 3
- Joined: Wed Apr 20, 2016 2:52 pm
- I ride: 2009 red Vulcan 500 LTD
Re: Won't Start - Completely Dead
Thanks! Unfortunately I already replaced it with a stock battery before I had a chance to see your reply. But I'll definitely keep this in mind when the time comes again. BTW - I really like this forum a lot - good stuff and good people!
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