BMW R1200RT/R1250RT Forum

My battery fluids are low and I am in the process of replenishing/charging, but after a quarter mile trip, it refused to start.  Very sluggish turnover, then clicks.  After a bump start, and during a small trip to charge it a bit, I notice that while the bike was still running the main read out screen was blank for a bit (it wasn't blank during the failed startup). 


While moving in neutral, I turned the key off then on and it started right away with a push of the button.  The battery terminal bolts are tight, but I wondered if the blank screen signaled a further problem, perhaps the internal battery connection?  Thanks.

First thing first take the battery off and fully charge it ideally with an optimate type charger that can monitor voltage etc


Once fully charged then leave for at least 4 hours to settle the fit to the bike and check the voltage then turn ignition on and check the voltage then check voltage while you turn the bike over then check it while running


Write all these down and report back with your figures


If the bike fails to start after the charge then replace the battery

Thanks, sakm.  Bike seems to be running fine now.  The real problem was finding distilled water!!!!  All of the auto parts stores incredible said that they no longer carry it anymore - I guess due to the advent of sealed batteries.  And supermarkets and drugstores (chemists) were all out due to COVID shortages.  Not having a still, I've filled it with tap water.  Even my battery specialist firm was out of both the water and any compatible batteries (which I will be buying soon). 


I was already charging it when I posted, and after about 40 mins I took a reading on my multimeter and it read about 28 volts!  Do I have to get another meter???  Thanks for your prompt reply.

28 Volts! Jesus!


Thats enough to kill the battery


Personally I would be changing the battery just for peace of mind