Bike wouldn't start/ABS Sensor?

[SpyderSue]

I have a 2009 RS ES. On a short ride I stopped to let a passenger off my Spyder. He got off, I cut the engine so he could get something out of the trunk. When I went to start the bike, it acted like the battery was almost dead, although it started perfectly moments before. I shut it down, waited the appropriate amount of time to let the computer reset, still same thing - half a crank and no start. I looked at the readout, and saw that the ABS light was flashing.

Last week, we switched out my comfort seat to a 2 part Corbin saddle. We had to disconnect the abs sensor several times from the back seat as we were adjusting positions etc. I remebered this, popped up the back seat, unplugged the sensor, plugged it back in again and the Spyder started.

So, is it most likely the plug was not in, or there is a short in the sensor/wires, or is it possible my battery is going south and this was just a side issue? The Spyder ran perfectly the next 10 miles up the mountain to home.

I'll go out tomorrow and start it up again. That might tell the story.

Has anyone else had this problem? Things to check?

Thanks for your help.

 

[NancysToy]

First, the sensor under the seat is not the ABS sensor. Those are mounted near your wheels. Neither the seat sensor nor the ABS sensors wil prevent starting.

Your problem is typical of a low or bad battery. Charging the battery may cure it, but may not alleviate the root cause. First thing to check is the battery terminals (inside the bodywork, not under the seat) for cleanliness and tightness. It also pays to check your main relay to see that it is fully inserted. You will need a voltmeter for additional testing (or see the dealer). After charging, let the battery sit several hours to overnight. It should be at 12.7 volts or above when tested after resting. If not, it is weak or bad, and probably needs replacement. You can do a simple load test by holding the throttle wide open to prevent starting, and cranking the starter. The voltage while cranking should not drop below 10.0 volts. The dealer can do a more sophisticated load test. A battery failing this test should be replaced. You can also do a quick check the charging of the Spyder magneto. At 4000 rpm, the Spyder should charge at 13.0-14.8 volts.

 

[SpyderSue]

First, the sensor under the seat is not the ABS sensor. Those are mounted near your wheels. Neither the seat sensor nor the ABS sensors wil prevent starting.

Your problem is typical of a low or bad battery. Charging the battery may cure it, but may not alleviate the root cause. First thing to check is the battery terminals (inside the bodywork, not under the seat) for cleanliness and tightness. It also pays to check your main relay to see that it is fully inserted. You will need a voltmeter for additional testing (or see the dealer). After charging, let the battery sit several hours to overnight. It should be at 12.7 volts or above when tested after resting. If not, it is weak or bad, and probably needs replacement. You can do a simple load test by holding the throttle wide open to prevent starting, and cranking the starter. The voltage while cranking should not drop below 10.0 volts. The dealer can do a more sophisticated load test. A battery failing this test should be replaced. You can also do a quick check the charging of the Spyder magneto. At 4000 rpm, the Spyder should charge at 13.0-14.8 volts.

Thank-you for your help. I'll go under the assumption it is battery related and do as you suggest. I love this forum!

 

[Bob Denman]

Scotty's got so much "bike smarts", that he has to stop every once in a while or his brain will overheat! :roflblack: :thumbup: :joke:

 

[SpyderSue]

Scotty's got so much "bike smarts", that he has to stop every once in a while or his brain will overheat! :roflblack: :thumbup: :joke:

Yeah, mine was about to expolde just reading it!!! nojoke
:bowdown:

 

[SpyderSue]

Battery

First, the sensor under the seat is not the ABS sensor. Those are mounted near your wheels. Neither the seat sensor nor the ABS sensors wil prevent starting.

Your problem is typical of a low or bad battery. Charging the battery may cure it, but may not alleviate the root cause. First thing to check is the battery terminals (inside the bodywork, not under the seat) for cleanliness and tightness. It also pays to check your main relay to see that it is fully inserted. You will need a voltmeter for additional testing (or see the dealer). After charging, let the battery sit several hours to overnight. It should be at 12.7 volts or above when tested after resting. If not, it is weak or bad, and probably needs replacement. You can do a simple load test by holding the throttle wide open to prevent starting, and cranking the starter. The voltage while cranking should not drop below 10.0 volts. The dealer can do a more sophisticated load test. A battery failing this test should be replaced. You can also do a quick check the charging of the Spyder magneto. At 4000 rpm, the Spyder should charge at 13.0-14.8 volts.

Okay, battery was still in good shape, :yes:although lost the square nut somewhere between one shop and the Front Range Kawasaki dealer:banghead: - GREAT people there. Later this morning, they looked in their magic box of nuts and bolts and found one to replace mine:bowdown:...but I digress...

Wiring looked good, 1st look at battery the negative was slightly loose. Maybe? All clean and corrosion-free. Started right up several times.

In the interest of this coming winter, I purchased a battery tender to keep Spyder battery happy. I fully intend to ride on nice/ice-free days this winter (albeit without heated seat, or grips or even vest). Yes, I am a honey-badger! (okay, where's the emoticon for THAT?)

I'll post more if something changes, but until then...off to ryde!:clap:

 

[boborgera]

Wiring looked good, 1st look at battery the negative was slightly loose. Maybe? All clean and corrosion-free. Started right up several times.

Loose neg -, Even slightly loose will cause a maze of starting problems, For some reason the neg - terminal at the battery likes to loosen up. A stainless steel star washer will keep it tight.

 

[Ga Blue Knight]

Scotty's got so much "bike smarts", that he has to stop every once in a while or his brain will overheat! :roflblack: :thumbup: :joke:

I think Spyderpops has an application for that!

 

[Bob Denman]

I do believe that you're right!

:2thumbs:

 

[SpyderSue]

Loose neg -, Even slightly loose will cause a maze of starting problems, For some reason the neg - terminal at the battery likes to loosen up. A stainless steel star washer will keep it tight.

NOW I know! I'm glad it was a simple fix. Thanks guys for your help.