Yamaha Seca II ignition problems

[mariner4590]

Hi all, I'm a new rider and I'm having trouble with my bike, a used '94 Yamaha Seca II. When I hit the ignition switch on my bike this morning it made a few pathetic grunts and then stopped, with only a sound like gas escaping when I held it down. I had the choke all the way open, the clutch down, the bike in neutral but I couldn't get it to start up. One thing I did notice was that the oil light came on when I held down the ignition switch. The light did seem very faint, so I'm wondering if maybe the battery is drained? It's cold and the bike hasn't been ridden in the last two weeks. As you may have guessed, my knowledge of mechanics is pretty lacking. Does this sound like something that could be easily remedied or do I need to take it in to a professional? Thanks.

[Johnj]

Do you have a battery charger?

[mariner4590]

I don't. How much would one cost me? Does that seem likely to be the problem?

[mariner4590]

As I stated, I'm a new rider with almost no knowledge of maintenance, so any knowledge you can throw at me is highly appreciated.

[Wrider]

Yeah a battery charger is your first step, maybe 20-30 bucks at a local store (hardware, motorcycle, auto). Let it charge on the lowest amperage setting you can overnight. That should help it charge back up.
If it does it again then chances are that you have a bad cell in the battery and it needs to be replaced.

[Johnj]

You might want to check the water in the battery before you charge it. Use distilled water and an eyedropper. The level should be between the lines at the top.

[mariner4590]

Ok, thank you. However, if the lights (headlight, turn signals, etc) are coming on, would that imply that the problem might not be with the battery?

[Johnj]

The battery might have enough charge to get the lights working, but not enough to start the bike.

When I hit the ignition switch on my bike this morning it made a few pathetic grunts and then stopped, with only a sound like gas escaping when I held it down. I had the choke all the way open, the clutch down, the bike in neutral but I couldn't get it to start up. One thing I did notice was that the oil light came on when I held down the ignition switch. The light did seem very faint, so I'm wondering if maybe the battery is drained? It's cold and the bike hasn't been ridden in the last two weeks. As you may have guessed, my knowledge of mechanics is pretty lacking. Does this sound like something that could be easily remedied or do I need to take it in to a professional? Thanks.

I say check the level of the water in the battery, then charged overnight (on the low setting).