My 2005 Sportster 883 sat over the winter and when I tried to start it, I found the battery dead. I recharged the battery (I didn't disconnect it), but when I push the starter, the only thing that happens is a click in the relay. The lights work. The dash lights up. I checked all the fuses; I tested the voltage on the battery (12.5 v). I have voltage on the starter. I have 12.5 v between lugs. The security system is turned off (no key is blinking red). I'm a pretty good mechanic and usually can trace out problems, but I'm stumped. I purchased the bike from the original owner, but he didn't pass on the owner's manual. Any suggestions?

 

This probably sounds elementary but no kidding can cause your problem........double check your "ground" connection, both at the battery terminal and more importantly, at the engine case post. The connection could be good enough for the low current draw of the indicator lights etc but when you challenge the battery with the starter it just laughs. Could also just be a bad battery even though it's reading good voltage. Try another battery if the grounds prove good to go.