Cold Start issues

[Kabulpostie]

Good Morning,
 I have an issue with my 2006 S2R1000, it won't start when cold. My first thought was that it was a battery issue since it was about six years years old and had spent the majority of the time being baked in the summer heat in AZ and TX. So I bought a new battery and it still won't start. Seems to give one or two half hearted spins of the starter motor and then quit.
Weather conditions: Lows of 25 or so with daytime mid 40's (NW Washington)

Batteries: 1st Shorai lithium, Replacement lithiums as well.

Could this be that lithiums don't do well in cold weather? I thought they had higher starting amps than Lead acid?

Or could this be a bigger issue with starter etc?


Thanks for any input,

Cameron

[Howie]

You could have other issues or there can be no issue at all.  First, charge that new Shorai.  They do not like falling below 12.8 volts.  Shorai says to not let it go below 13.1 volts. LiFePO₄ batteries cold performance characteristics are different than lead acid batteries.  Cold cranking power actually improves after current is drawn from the battery for a period of time.  Try turning the key on with the headlight on for about 30 seconds, then try starting the bike.  On your SR2 that means turn the key on, then of, remove key, reinsert key, start bike.

Also, Shorai changed their recommendations for your bike.  Check here:  http://shoraipower.com/