Motorcycle Repair: battery, suzuki bandit 1200, 2002 suzuki bandit 1200

Question
Hi Mark I own a 2002 suzuki bandit 1200 which won't crank to start. I put a new battery in it last april, when turning the key all the electrical goes on but it doesn't have enough to start the bike.. I tried recharging the battery until fully charged with no luck. When I jumpstart it it starts right up. It's been sitting all winter and i would start it every weekend until one time when it wouldn't start. Could my battery have gone bad already? The bike has 1500 miles on it. Any help would be appreciated Thanks  

Answer
Hi Walt,

Yes, the battery may become weak or defective with periods of limited use or storage.

I suspect one of the following:
 -a weak or defective battery
 -a loose battery cable connection

Measure battery voltage with a multimeter.

Measure specific gravity of each cell with a Hydrometer designed for motorcycle batteries.

Test results will determine if the battery is fully charged and in good condition.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively