How to Test a Suzuki GSX-R1000 Battery

When you hit the start button on your Suzuki GSX-R1000 motorcycle and nothing happens, the first thing you need to do is check the battery.

Testing the battery on a Suzuki motorcycle is easy enough, and you'll only need a few tools to get the job done. Watch the video above and follow the steps below to learn how to test a Suzuki GSXR1000 battery.

See the parts diagrams:

Suzuki GSXR 1000 battery testing tools

Tools - Suzuki GSX-R1000 Battery Testing

  • Ratchet and extensions
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Digital multimeter

Buy a motorcycle battery charger

Fire Power digital battery tester

Suzuki GSX-R1000 Battery Test

Step 1. Turn the ignition off, then remove the seat and set a digital multimeter to DC volts. Attach the multimeter to the battery and measure the battery's voltage. 

2007 Suzuki GSX-R1000 motorcycle battery testing remove seat

2007 Suzuki GSX-R1000 motorcycle battery testing attach multimeter

2007 Suzuki GSX-R1000 motorcycle battery testing multimeter

The battery should have a reading between 12.5 volts and 13 volts. If the voltage reads below 12.5, turn the ignition on and monitor the voltage to see if it drops any further, which is an indication the battery may be worn out.

2007 Suzuki GSX-R1000 battery testing

Suzuki GSX-R1000 battery testing multimeter

Step 2. Disconnect the positive and negative cables from the battery and connect a battery tester to check its condition. 

2007 Suzuki GSX-R1000 motorcycle battery test

2007 Suzuki GSX-R1000 motorcycle battery tester

battery tester will test the GSXR 1000 battery based on its type and size, and gives you a much better indication of whether it needs to be replaced. If the battery tester diagnoses a bad battery, it's time to purchase a new one

Suzuki GSX-R1000 motorcycle battery tester results

Step 3. Remove the cover from the electrolyte container, then press the electrolyte container down onto the six battery cells and let it drain completely into the battery. Once the battery is filled, let it sit for at least 10 minutes.

2007 Suzuki GSX-R1000 motorcycle battery change acid

NOTE: Don't discard the cover on the electrolyte container, since you'll be needing it again once the battery is fully charged. 

2007 Suzuki GSX-R1000 motorcycle battery change electrolyte

2007 Suzuki GSX-R1000 motorcycle battery replacement electrolyte

2007 Suzuki GSX-R1000 battery replacement electrolyte

Step 4. Use a smart battery charger to completely charge the battery. 

2007 Suzuki GSX-R1000 battery charging

Step 5. Take the cover that was on the electrolyte container and use it to seal the six battery cells, tapping it lightly with soft blow hammer to get it to seat properly.

Suzuki GSX-R1000 battery replacement

OPTIONAL: Use a battery tester to check the health of the new battery after it's fully charged.

Suzuki GSXR 1000 battery change charging

Step 6. Install the new battery by reconnecting the positive cable to the battery first, then reconnecting the negative cable. 

Suzuki GSXR 1000 motorcycle battery change

Suzuki GSXR 1000 battery change

If the battery passed all the tests but the Suzuki motorcycle still won't start, watch the video below to learn how to troubleshoot GSX-R1000 starting problems