ok, put in a new battery...the old one hadn't been holding a charge for some time; also installed new plugs - for good measure. the bike started right up with the electric start. idle was a little rough at first, but smoothed itself out as the bike warmed up.
tested the current at the battery - about 13v while idling @1000rpm to 14.5v @ 3500rpm. i went as high as 7000rpm and the voltage meter topped at about 14.7v. that indicates that the regulator is functioning, correct?
i'g going to wait for the morning sun to dry the roads a bit, then go for a short shakedown ride before taking the bike 100mi to philadelphia.
regards,
-bt