[PFFOG]

So it was OK until you installed a new battery? If so I would reevaluate your conclusion. A starter can "go bad" and draw high amps, or loose some coil continuity making it weak, or bearings can wear, causing rotor strike.

But I think these are RARE on these starters, I wouldn't trust the Auto Zone guy to even identify it as a starter, let along give a good diagnostic conclusion.

That said, if it started AFTER battery replacement, I would connect jumper cables from a known good battery to the bike, and see what it does then. And you can jump it at the back of the starter, or cheat and remove the seat and side panels enough to contact the + battery terminal with a screwdriver, being careful not to contact the frame, then hook the + cable to the screwdriver, and the - cable to the frame somewhere.