Hi All,

I have a 2005 XL1200C and it is only a few weeks old. When I go to start it, it makes a machine gun type clicking sound and will not turn over. It sounds like the noise is from the starter but it's hard to tell. On occasion the engine will attempt to roll over but most of the time it wont. I guess my question is, what is that clicking noise when I press the starter? I think the battery is supplying plenty of power since the headlights and all the electrical systems seem to be working. Any ideas? Thanks.

WHD

 

How do you know that the battery is supplying plenty of juice? Have you tested it? In my experience, start with the power supply when getting a clicking noise. Have your battery tested before you move on to bigger and better things

 

Check your battery terminals and see if they are tight enough.

 

I didn't actually test the voltage of the batter because I was under the assumption that if all the electrical components worked such as lights, horn, etc. the battery would be good. I called the service shop and the guy suggested that it was the battery. He said the lights and horn do not require that much power. He told me to put it on a trickle charger overnight and try again tomorrow so thats what I am doing right now. I thought for sure if the lights worked fine, the battery would be good. The battery is new so I dont understand why it lost its charge. I had the bike running three days ago just fine. Beats me.

 

Were you having the same problem with the old battery? Sounds like you might have trouble in the charging dept, going on, check the wires at the starter and relay and make sure they are tight and clean as well. I believe TC has a post covering checking the charging system in the DIY forum. Keep us posted.

 

Ok, I found the problem to be a battery that needed to be recharged. Now I am not sure what made it loose it's charge and I am keeping an eye on it in case it happens again. I called the dealer and they said if it happens again to bring the bike in and they would check the electrical system and exchange the battery for me under warranty. Thanks to all who helped replied to my post.

WHD