skatnbnc wrote on 12/31/69 at 16:00:04:Yes, I too thought I might not be going through the correct starting procedure. I double checked everything, to the point of getting off the bike and starting from ground zero with the manual in hand.
This is exactly what I do:
1. insert key and turn to ON (not Park!)
2. Neutral light comes on (as does headlamp)
3. Pull out choke button
4. Press red kill button to ON position
5. Depress and hold (squeeze) clutch lever
6. Press ignition switch
At this point I either get silence or VROOM.
Mind you all - I have NEVER had it not start from cold first try. This starting issue only shows up after I've been riding and stop, then go back shortly to ride again.
I physically got off the bike and then back on after 10 minutes. Again, I checked ALL the wiring connections thinking it might be a wire getting squished or uncoupled when I sit down. Nada.
I've tried starting withthe kickstand up and down because of that funky button thing on the kickstand that can stall you out if it is not up when you switch from neutral to 1st gear.
There does NOT seem to be any noise when I press the starter button. Not even a click.
As pointed out previously this bike is practically BRAND NEW. I've ridden weekly from Sept when I purchased it all through the winter. This starting issue has just begun within the past 4 weeks.
I'm stumped!
Okay. I'm gonna advance your newbie status. It does seem like you're thinking about all of it very well...Just didn't want you to come back and say, "I forgot the kill switch"
The bike was new or used in Sept '06, but that still makes no sense for a battery issue. You should get about 3 years out of a stock wet cell....
You filled the battery last weekend and it worked better for a while...
No click or nothing...a low battery will usually give you a click at the solenoid, relay or starter. Nothing isn't normal (if that makes sense)...this is the key part.
<Both our batteries finally expired just this last winter, so I'm pretty fresh on that sound. Both were over 3 years old though>
What about the previous owner? Did he do anything to the bike at all? Any accessories or lights?
Do you always have a neutral light when you think it should be on?
Have you looked real close to make sure the clutch lever switch is connected correctly?
Have you looked real close at the side stand switch to be sure it works on the side stand correctly?
Are you sure about the ignition key switch position every time (have to ask)?
Battery makes no sense to me. It has to be something else....