Battery or charging warning
A charging warning while riding can end in loss of ignition, lighting or electronic systems; make a safe plan rather than assuming a remaining distance.
Last reviewed: 23 July 2026 · Exact behaviour varies by make, model and year
Normal behaviour
A charging warning may illuminate during the start-up check and should normally go out once the engine runs. Behaviour and colour vary by model.
Possible fault
If the warning appears while riding, the charging system may not be supplying enough power. The motorcycle may be operating from stored battery energy, but the remaining time cannot be predicted reliably.
What to do
Head for the nearest safe place rather than assuming you can finish the journey. Reduce non-essential electrical load where safe, but do not switch off required lighting. Avoid repeated restarts. Arrange a battery and charging-system test.
Possible causes
- •Loose, corroded or damaged battery connection
- •Failed stator, alternator or regulator/rectifier
- •Wiring, fuse or connector fault
- •Ageing or internally failed battery
- •Model-specific generator drive fault
When not to ride
Stop if lighting or instruments begin failing, the engine runs erratically, steering or suspension systems report voltage-related faults, or continuing would leave you in an unsafe location after the bike stops.
Sources
- The Highway Code, warning displays and vehicle maintenancehttps://www.gov.uk/guidance/the-highway-code/annex-6-vehicle-maintenance-safety-and-security
- Honda motorcycle owner's manualshttps://www.honda.co.uk/motorcycles/my-bike/honda-motorcycles-owners-manuals/
- Yamaha motorcycle owner's manualshttps://www.yamaha-motor.eu/gb/en/service-support/owner-manuals/