Spit, sputter & backfire @ 80mph

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Sep 28, 2015 | 04:26 PM

awilcodm

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6th Gear

Joined: Aug 2012

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From: Swartz Creek, MI

Spit, sputter & backfire @ 80mph

I have a 2003 RK. On the way home from work the other night it started to spit, sputter and backfire through the pipes. Initially I though I was running out of gas but I had 1/2 tank. Luckily I made it home. I shut it off expecting it not to start but it fired right up. I let it sit until the weekend and when I went to start it there was nothing. The battery was "new" in the spring by the previous owner but when I took it to have it checked they said it was bad. Now for the back story...2 days prior to the bike running bad, I left my ignition on while at work and killed the battery. I had to have it jumped in order to get home. Could that have did my battery in? I have since bought a new batter and have put about 75 miles on with out issue. Do you think my problem is fixed or is there an underlying culprit waiting to rear its ugly head? Any help is appreciated.

Also, would anyone care to explain how the charging system works on these bikes?

Sep 28, 2015 | 04:37 PM

TriGeezer

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Joined: May 2012

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From: Carlsbad, CA

Could be...batteries don't like to be run dead. Once that happens, its best to replace it.

Sep 30, 2015 | 07:57 PM

awilcodm

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6th Gear

Joined: Aug 2012

Posts: 14

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From: Swartz Creek, MI

Thanks for the reply. So far so good on the new battery.

Oct 1, 2015 | 10:06 AM

dfwhockey17

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Joined: May 2014

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From: Fort Worth, TX

Have you checked the charging system to make sure the stator and regulator are working within spec?

Oct 1, 2015 | 06:38 PM

awilcodm

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6th Gear

Joined: Aug 2012

Posts: 14

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From: Swartz Creek, MI

I have not. How can I check that?

Oct 1, 2015 | 08:50 PM

OldEnuf2NoBtr

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Joined: Dec 2009

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From: Doghouse... mostly

Once you "kill" the battery by running it completely down it will never be the same and will only create more issues. You can go to www.youtube.com and watch a couple of videos that shows how to properly check the charging system.