Suzuki GS500 starting help

stephen ingham · L Plate Warrior Joined: 02 Jul 2013 Karma :

Hello guys and galls, i have just joined the forum but cant see a section to introduce myself so i will do it here if thats okay along with a few questions.

My name is Stephen and i am only a part time and occasional biker, i come from a car and bike mechanical background and have dabbled with both for a number of years.

A good friend of mine was recently emptying her garage out and found under a cover a bike her ex bought her when they were together some time ago.

It is an R plated Suzuki GS500 in orange and black, it has 14000 miles on the clock and according to the tax disc it hasnt been on the road since 2005 and has been stored under the cover in the corner of the garage.

She asked me if i fancied getting it back on the road for her, which i said yes...

I did a few basic things; checked the brakes and suspension, all seem fine, all lights working once i had charged the battery.
I drained and changed the engine oil and old fuel, removed the plugs and spun the engine over until the oil light went out then fitted new plugs, ready to fire up.

When i pressed the starter button it struggled a little to turn over and the starter solenoid started clicking, it did eventually start (and sounded really sweet) but when i switched it off to try again it would spin for a second then the solenoid begun clicking again.

My question is; is it the battery thats not giving enough power causing the solenoid to click or is it the solenoid thats at fault?

I would appreciate any help or advice possible.

Many thanks
Stephen

at106 · Brolly Dolly Joined: 16 Jul 2011 Karma :

If the solenoid is clicking that's normally a sign that the battery is flat, and if its been sat for 8 years its probably time for a replacement Thumbs Up

Vincent · Banned Joined: 16 Oct 2006 Karma :

Yup, sounds like the battery, they don't like being stood too long. If you get a new one, look into the AGM type, esp a Motobatt "Quadflex".
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stephen ingham · L Plate Warrior Joined: 02 Jul 2013 Karma :

Hi guys, thanks for the replies.

I was pretty sure it was gunna be the battery so thanks for confirming it for me.

Great site by the way

Cheers
Stephen

_Iain_ · Banned Joined: 01 Feb 2012 Karma :

Fix it and sell it ASAP.

Do not under any circumstances attempt to use it...
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stephen ingham · L Plate Warrior Joined: 02 Jul 2013 Karma :

Hi, thanks for the reply.
Whats wrong with using it, seems like a nice bike...?