Engine won't crank

I just purchased (two weeks ago) a new to me 2012 Silverwing. I purchased it from a dealer 220 miles away. I've only had the bike running about 6 times and now it won't crank. When I turn on the key, engage the left brake lever and push the start button all I get is the headlight dimming. The side stand and center stand or both up and the battery reads 12.5 volts with a meter. I have also cycled the kill switch several times. It did this to me yesterday when I got back from the license branch and after trying about 8 times it finally cranked and started fine. Is there any particular problem areas with the electrical on this bike. Any help would be appreciated. Today it won't crank at all

Lloyd in Indianapolis.

I would first think battery--- In US "Batteries Plus" can charge and then load test. When running go out and ride 20 miles or so. At home then try starting. End solution maybe new battery.

John....Thank you for the quick reply. I attached one of the lithium jumper packs to the battery and also monitored the voltage with a digital Fluke meter when I pushed the starter button. With the jump pack on and the meter on there was no change in the voltage reading. It was 12.3 volts continuously. The only thing I see is the headlight go out when the button is pushed. I also don't hear anything audible like a relay clicking. Would a battery do this?

Lloyd

yes

Not sure . Brake switch on left lever needs to be pulled more than enough to light brake light.
Pull it hard and see if problem goes away. When I first bought SW I thought something was wrong not starting-no crank. Brake switch or an adjustment maybe.

Battery connection or loose terminal maybe but lights are on so its getting power. Clean tighten battery connections.

Relay not working will also cause problems.

Thanks to all for your help. A neighbor, a very good bike mechanic said just what Mech 1 twa said. Brake switch not contacting on both switches. The upper portion of the switch is intermittent at best. Loosened screws and pushed switch toward actuator. Much better but will order new switch to be sure.
Thanks again for the help.

Sometimes those brake micro switches get corroded or dirty. Spray some contact spray or silicone into the switch. That fixed my previous bike. I actually saw dirt falling out of the switch after spraying. Of course, new switch is probably best cure.

Also, Mech's comment on the hard pull to activate the brake switch seems common on SWings.

Bikehiker...

Thanks for the input. I know from my Goldwing days that most of the switch problems could be fixed with a good soaking with WD40. Now if it would just warm up here in Indianapolis....Currently 12 degrees.