Sometimes it starts, sometimes it doesn't

I keep my K3 pointy in the drive uncovered and have been commuting about 50 miles round trip most days through the winter, so it gets wet a lot and isn't as smart as it was.

Last few days it has taken to not starting until it feels like it. When it doesn't start, nothing happens when I press the button. When it does start, it starts just like usually.

The switching on routine looks like normal - all the lights go on, the display looks normal and the fuel pump pressurises the system. But the starter doesn't respond at all - gives no indication it even thinks it's been asked.

After going through the staring routine several times it will suddenly decide to respond and away we go as normal.

Any ideas?

On a car, I'd opt for a sticking starter motor. But I'm not sure how different a bike starter is to a car starter.

When you get a feel for knowing if it'll start or not, connect the battery direct to the starter to see if it'll start that way.

If the fuel pump primes, it's not any of the "idiot" switches (kill/clutch/sidestand). Possibly a dodgy connection somewhere, but I doubt it'll be HT leads & plugs (although worth a check).

Originally Posted by Baph

If the fuel pump primes, it's not any of the "idiot" switches (kill/clutch/sidestand). Possibly a dodgy connection somewhere, but I doubt it'll be HT leads & plugs (although worth a check).

Thanks, Baph, my thoughts also. I'm thinking of the connections from starter button to relay to motor. It'll come off the road next weekend for a thorough de-wintering. I'll see what I can find.

sounds like starter motor

[yorkie_chris]

Clutch switch

Originally Posted by yorkie_chris

Clutch switch

Terse but true.

Thanks