Bonneville America Forums Forums Technical Forums General Tech Bike won't start!!!

Been riding my bike round all day. Stopped at a shop, got back on & bike wouldn't start. I got the oil & neutral lights on the dash so I hit the starter button and all I got was a click then silence...The lights on the dash went out.

Had to push it home but when i got to a down hill, I managed to free wheel for a while before jump starting her. Got home. switched her off and she wouldn't start again. It's strange 'cos she has been fine all day & has started every other time. I haven't had these problems before

Got home & checked battery (use optimate all the time) and fuses - all seem ok.

Any ideas what may have happened to just make it not want to turn over & start?

Pushed the button and the lights went out, sounds like a bad battery connection either at the battery or solenoid.

bad ground maybe? make sure connections are clean and tight

Frank

Silly question I guess, but where is the solonoid?

under side cover

I was including the ground when I said at the battery but neglected to mention where that lead grounds to the bike.

Pull your drivers (right) side cover...there you will find the solinoid...move the rubber boots covering the terminals...use a coin (I used a "qwatah") to "jump" the leads...BE SURE YOUR BIKE IS IN NETURAL this will help to prove or disprove your solinoid as the cause...(mine was replaced under warantee, but they are cheap enough if your past yours...good luck!

Thanks Guys as ever you are all legends...

I've cleaned the battery terminals and the solonoids and managed to get it started now. Still not sure what happened & I'm a little worried that it might do it again when I'm out & I won't be able to get home...

Really appreciate the help you guys on the site give out - it really is excellent.

Now I'll be able to get out & enjoy the TT festival on 2 wheels.

I had the same problem just after I got my bike.
It was a loose battery terminal.
It's stayed tight for over 13,000mi since.