Mr Unix,
You were correct. It was the start button needing attention. I estimate that it has been pushed at least 900 times in 2 years (18,000 miles / 20 miles one way to work). Even when the side stand was up or down it didn't have a bearing on the start button. Also the bike was in nuetral most of the time. There is the clutch lever switch to think about but i'm not sure when that comes into play right now but i think it over rides the side stand switch as well.
Thanks for your help.
Happy Holidays to you,
Gary
