DISCLAIMER: 1. This mod is in beta testing. 2. If you use the mod as described, the side stand switch will need to be bypassed.

Purpose: This mod will allow your S40/Savage to be started in neutral without the clutch engaged. Since the clutch switch is not bypassed, the clutch will still need to be engaged to start in gear.

Method: The side stand relay is re-purposed as a clutch switch relay. The relay is activated by the neutral switch.

Reason: If you are replacing the automatic decompression mechanism with a manual thumb lever, you need a free left hand to start the bike. You also don't want the bike accidentally starting in gear.

What happens when you get a false neutral?  i.e., when the neutral light is on, but the transmission is in gear (which has been known to happen), does the bike start as it takes off down the driveway?

Charon wrote on 10/25/12 at 12:01:42:


I really am not a fan of all the safety switches on the Savage.  This is the first motorycle I have even owned with all that stuff on it.  I suppose it helps new riders.....and maybe it will help me when I get senile.....but at the moment the side stand switch is not an issue.  I get on the bike, sit down and pull up the side stand, turn on the fuel, turn on the switch, then start the bike.

I can see that the clutch safety switch would be one that I might/could reap benefits someday, as trying to start in gear is more of a possibility.

I believe this modification is a good solution to getting a free hand to operate a manual decompressor.

verslagen1 wrote on 10/25/12 at 12:09:28:


I'm probably out in la la land again.

I have seen a circuit which allows a start in Neutral with the clutch lever released. In every other way it acts stock. But because I do not condone tampering with safety circuits, you are on your own to discover or devise it.

I am not an attorney, and have no idea what legal liability might attach to me if I told someone how to bypass a safety system and they subsequently got hurt or killed. I am not willing to risk it.

I officially advise everyone here to stop riding motorcycles. And walking on piers.

I bypassed the clutch safety switch when I put together my Ryca last year. I went with a manual decompression lever instead of the foot actuated one in the Ryca kit. As I do not have three hands, the clutch safety switch had to be bypassed (right hand for the starter button and left one for the decompression lever). My starting drill is to get the bike in neutral -- verify this with the green neutral light and a quick rocking of the bike. Then step on the rear brake, hands in place, and fire it up. Release the decompression lever just as the starter engages.

No safety switches, relocated starter button, no dash lights (or speedometer for that matter) for several years. It is a 1950s engine, with a 1970s electrical system, and 1980s safety junk. At least Toyota was nice enough to have a clutch safety cancel button installed. I even bypassed it on my Ranger.

But, I'm also the guy who successfully installed a front drum this week... and is boxing/sending away the stock front wheel. AND gave away the master cylinder, hose, lever and caliper (plus mounting bolts)...

I may be the wrong one to ask, but... delete them. Preferably well before the kickstand starts to bounce going down the road and shuts you off in traffic. Been there, bike was 2 months old, Savages CAN fly if you have to sidewalk it to stay upright.