When I start my bike, the meter reads 14 volts. After the bike is riding for awhile, the meter goes down to just above 12 volts. Is this normal? I have a 2007 FLHTC. Thanks!

 

It would not be normal for my bike. Mine goes the other way, it starts around 12.5 and goes up to a little over 14 after riding a while.

 

Mine also begins at 12.5 or so and then stays at a tad over 14

 

Mine idles around 12 and out on the road it reads 13.5. I told the dealer, after they verified that the charging system was working properly, that I wanted a new gauge. He said something to the effect of "well, they're not meant to be that accurate anyway". Huh? We straightened it out, I'll be getting a new, accurate gauge, at my 5K.

 

I am not sure motorcycles are different, mine does not have a voltmeter, but typically 12 volt systems show 13.5-14.5 volts on start up reflecting the charge rate after the load from start up and then as the system charges it reduces to about 12.5 volts.indicating the battery is fully charged.

 

Interesting, when I hit the start button it drops to 10.5. at idle 12.5 and
when on the road 14. been doing this for 8 years new battery or not.
The only time it changed is when I noticed the ground had came a little
loose at the frame. Of course mine is considered an old bike, 2000 FLHT.
LOL

Saint

 

A new, good battery will measure 12.8-12.9V when fully charged with NO load (calibrated, sensitive meter, not the meter on the dash). If the voltage at rest is 12.5, it's about 50% charged (assuming lead acid). When the engine is at fast idle, say 1500 to 2000 rpm's the voltage will increase to 14.3 volts plus or minus a little. Anything over 14.5 would make me suspicious of the voltage regulator. HD hasn't made a reliable voltage regulator in its history, btw. If the engine's just idling (900 rpm), the charging system probably can't keep up with the current draw of all the lights and the battery will slowly discharge meaning its voltage will slowly drop below 12.6 volts.