This last friday, I was heading home on I-64, traffic slows down to a snails pace for 15 minutes, then stops for 45 minutes. It was sunny, temps near 90, no wind, hot asphalt. (Accident caused I-64 shutdown)
I decided to let the K8 run(many stories of bikes not starting in similar conditions, parade, etc.) The temp gage NEVER went above the half way point, fans would cycle then shut off. Frame was very hot to the touch.
Silly me decided to shut the bike off, and Murphys law made the traffic move 5 minutes later. I tried to start the bike, it only turned over very slowly(too slow to start). I waited 15 minutes(turned over a little better, but still no start).
After a half hour, I tried again and the bike started fine. The .org has many similar stories. Early on I upgraded to the higher amperage Schnitz battery.
I dont think battery had anything to do with this problem. This engine, (at least as indicated by the temp gage) was NOT hot, But I think things were plenty warm to heat up the frame. I have read warmer engines have a harder time turning over(compression goes up?), but from experience, I have learned hot starters dont like to turn an engine.
My best guess is, the starter got hot and lost efficiency(from conductivity of copper windings hot) until it cooled some.
To add insult to injury, I called AAA(for a jump) only to learn my membership doesnt apply to my motorcycle. Good thing I really didnt need a jump. Does Suzuki offer a roadside assistance program?
Any input is appreciated. Thanks, John
P.S. See you at the Bash friday afternoon!
I decided to let the K8 run(many stories of bikes not starting in similar conditions, parade, etc.) The temp gage NEVER went above the half way point, fans would cycle then shut off. Frame was very hot to the touch.
Silly me decided to shut the bike off, and Murphys law made the traffic move 5 minutes later. I tried to start the bike, it only turned over very slowly(too slow to start). I waited 15 minutes(turned over a little better, but still no start).
After a half hour, I tried again and the bike started fine. The .org has many similar stories. Early on I upgraded to the higher amperage Schnitz battery.
I dont think battery had anything to do with this problem. This engine, (at least as indicated by the temp gage) was NOT hot, But I think things were plenty warm to heat up the frame. I have read warmer engines have a harder time turning over(compression goes up?), but from experience, I have learned hot starters dont like to turn an engine.
My best guess is, the starter got hot and lost efficiency(from conductivity of copper windings hot) until it cooled some.
To add insult to injury, I called AAA(for a jump) only to learn my membership doesnt apply to my motorcycle. Good thing I really didnt need a jump. Does Suzuki offer a roadside assistance program?
Any input is appreciated. Thanks, John
P.S. See you at the Bash friday afternoon!
