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Betty Won't Start!

by Veronica
(Chicago, IL)

Hey girls,

Sad, sad news....I am a new rider from Chicago. I purchased 'Betty' in August but since I live in cold Chicago, I did not have much time to ride before cold weather set in. So i have been starting her in the garage about every two weeks. No prob until...today! She did not start! I put on the choke and nothing. At first the horn bonked loudly and the lights came on, then it starting clicking, then no lights, no horn or anything.

I know its the battery but how do i fix the problem myself? Do I buy a new battery, push start it, or get a jump? I am single and no one I know rides a bike; plus id rather 'fix' the problem (solo) hands on. She is a 2000 Honda Rebel and I do not have the owners manual. I don't mind buying a new battery, but how in the heck do I install such a tiny unit? Please, please, I am so sad that 'betty' is ill...HELP US!!!

Love and tears,

Veronica

Comments for
Betty Won't Start!

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Jan 19, 2010
 Betty's Battery
by: Barb

Hi Veronica,

Something that can be important; when you start her, how long do you let her run? Using an electric starter on a small bike pulls lots of amps, and running her for around fifteen minutes is necessary to recharge the battery. Of course, an adjustable charger or tender will keep the battery fully charged, but so will just riding her around for half an hour or so. Ideally, do both. Basically, bikes are just like people: ignored, we grow sulky. When we get proper attention, we are in a good mood, and in a bike, that means starting and running.

You are doing the right thing by starting her often, just give her time to recharge, or do the tender thing. And hope for an early Spring....8^)

Barb
Jan 13, 2010
 Will Do!
by: veronica

Thanks girls,

I plan on purchasing that 'tender thing' on Saturday. I will let you all know how it goes. Thanks soooo much for the information AND Betty thanks you too!!!

Till,

Veronica
Jan 10, 2010
 Trickle
by: AngelVal

You can pick up a battery tender cheaper at most any motorcycle shop. Keeping it on the trickle charge is your key!
Jan 10, 2010
 Battery
by: Anonymous

Check out this website to start your education!!
suzzQ

http://www.batterytender.com/
Jan 10, 2010
 Betty's Battery
by: Bridgett

Hello,

You need to get a battery tender, and it will trickle charge your bike, it will take 12 or more hours to charge. Then keep it plugged in all the time when it is cold and your not riding. DO NOT JUMP START, you will mess up your bike. You can pick up a tender at Harley or any bike shop....Good luck!

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