Where to start. Right I've had my 2014 twin spark since last May and done 7000 miles including tours to Scotland, England and Italy, it has always started but has been very lazy about it (they all do that sir) I've asked a couple of peopl ewho are Ducati specialists but they reckon there's nothing to be gained on later models with the starter cable upgrade. So I've cleaned up the connections on the starter motor and the engine/earth connection. Now since I've started riding it on colder morning's, sub 10 degs ,the second hand on my watch spins faster, but it still has started even tho I was thinking no chance. On two occasions after starting I stopped the engine within a few seconds but then it wouldn't start. The second time it started after giving the battery 5 mins to get its breath back (it must have fired up on the last spin before the battery said bollocks to this) Once it's got a few miles on its back and/or the temp warms up a bit it starts like I expect it to. Here's my question is this battery related or would it be the same with a new battery. Now before I hear have you checked the voltage, I'm half way between Leeds and Turin in the middle of a French nowhere so checking voltage not easy for me. At the moment my mind is getting more and more consumed with it not starting, with 7 days before I get back to Blighty. Do these things bump start or is that a no no. Now, if the consensus is its the battery the best time for me to get one while away would be Turin on Thursday if anyone has any contacts there and assuming I get that far. As ever thanks in advance. TB
I've sold over 50 kits on DVT and 1260 models and had great results - and not one complaint They are the most difficult to fit though due to all the bodywork Do these experts tell you why there is no point fitting them? * they won't fix a knackered battery, but they will improve the circuit for sure...
Thanks for your input. But this is a topic for later I'm looking for info on getting home under my own steam right now. TB
Sorry, I was only replying to your comment though is it a Lithium you have fitted as they are not so good at lower temps? I would certainly try a new battery first I think. Oh, and park on a hill if possible beforehand. Can't see why you can't bump it off
The menu should enable you to read the battery voltage off the dash. Check what it says before trying to start the bike, it should be about 12.5V. Start the engine then immediately stop it again and see what it reads then, hopefully not too much less. The voltage should return to within 0.2V of its original pre-start value after a 15 minute rest, if not the battery needs replacing. You should be able to bump a Multi if you can find a hill, I wouldn't attempt to push it. Bump it in 2nd or 3rd gear and catch it on the clutch as it fires.
I remember now the voltage check on the menu thanks. Thing is, it is currently starting from unbelievably low revs, so if it starts I ain't stopping it, darent. I'll try this when I'm closer to back up. TB
I have no idea where you are in France but for all the cost of a battery, I suggest you buy a new one ASAP.
This is where I'm lacking. I didn't think you turn up at a shop and they would have one fully charged on the shelf. This is complicated a bit due to pre booked hotels connected by a full days riding. So happy to buy a battery but as I'm in Turin for 2 nights that would be the best place to do it.
Most batteries are AGM or gel these days and are pre-charged ready to fit off the shelf. Good luck, I hope you reach Turin OK.
Just a final update FYI. Didn't do the 15 min test just in case it wouldn't start again. But did use the volt tester on the dash. 1st thing it was reading 12.4v and later in the day 12.7 v. So I detoured into Grenoble and had a new battery fitted. 1st thing this one reads 12.7 v and later in the day 13.0 v. It seems to be coping with the cold starts easier. Thanks for your help. Cheers TB
