2004 FSE 400 Battery question

[lukemillar]

Hi

Just bought a 2004 400 FSE and have started sorting through some of the maintenance and cleaning. The previous owners was saying that he would have to use the kick start in combination with the electric start to start the bike. Stripping the bike down, it seems the battery is 12v yet the owners book quotes 14.4v. Does the voltage get up-converted or has the battery been replaced with a smaller battery?

Also - the side stand has been bent into this crazy shape to attempt get it to work better than stock. Does any of the later model (2005+ or pampera) enduro's side stands fit and are a better design? I figure if I have to spend the money ordering a new one, then I might as well get a better design!

Thanks
Luke

[jjbaker1]

hi mate, the 12v battery is correct, when running this should go up to approx 14.4v, i always charge the battery before taking it out, it is recomended to use the kick start with the electric to preserve the delicate starter clutch mechanism, my 2003 450fse has already got through five of them that i know of, as a rule i would use the electric starter to start the bike from cold, when warm i use the kick start, there is a knack to using the kick, but persevere and you should get it

[gasmonkey]

JJ ^^^ is right.Use only the top spec yuasa batt.Charge before using(riding).I added an extra wire connecting startsoleniod to starter to en sure max voltage at cranking.
Re stand,they're all crap and unreliable.Bin it.
Cheers