So, this is going to be a bit long, but I'm starting to run out of ideas-  My future son in law has had this bike since the winter, and you guys have been great, we finally got the oil leak stopped, and it had been running great for him till last week, he was riding to work and he said it just died, and he heard grinding noises.  I thought the normal stuff, starter, regulator, solenoid, etc.  Well the starter spins fine out of the bike, the solenoid clicks but since the starter is spinning I would think that's fine, the combustion release mech is working but the starter just clunks when it's in the bike.  I tried roll starting and I couldn't get it to turn over in first or second, but I was thinking that might be normal since roll starting doesn't release the compression and thats a lot of pressure given that it's a 650 with one cyl.  I've got a new solenoid coming today, but somehow I don't think that's it, could this engine have just siezed up on the highway without locking up his rear wheel?

Joe

Are you able to do a leak down test?  This sounds a lot like a cam chain failure.

I haven't ever done a leak down test, the bike has 20k on her.

Joe

Well, I pulled the clutch plate off, it's not the tensioner.  We then took the spark plug out, er uh, well, I should say we pulled out what was left of it.  The piston goes up and down, but stops at the same point, then I have to turn the shaft the other way, and the same thing happens.  I have a basic understanding of the internal combustion engine, and my very novice opinion is this is not good.

Joe

Yeah, I'm thinking what it might need is an engine, drop a new one in and call it a day.

Going to think on it over vacation.

Joe