Wont Start

[JStones]

I got this on the road just before summer. I have ridden it daily since then. I went out today and it wont start. Its trying to start just not firing up.. Few simple things to check before getting really into it?

[IanDMacDonald]

I always KISS

Keep it simple, spray some starting fluid in the air box and see if that helps. If not, pull your plugs one at a time and check for spark. Make sure your carbs are getting fuel by making sure the petcocks work.

You have to isolate the problem as to whether it's a compression issue, air/fuel issue, or electrical issue.

Let us know what happens after you do the following above.

[Redman]

THe starting fluid trick is one place to begin with. Spray a little in air box inlet, if it fires up some then know ignotion must be okay and problem is fuel related. Some folks dont like the starting fluid.

Other thing could be to try to start it some more, then take out a plug or two and see if the are wet. IF they are wet then know it is getting some gas (but dont know if enough, or if way too much). CAn then lay plug on engine head, and hit srarter button like trying to start it and see if the plug is sparking, if it is not then know problem is related to the ignition.

DO you have a volt meter?
CAn see if getting voltage at the ignition coils?

Do you have a battery charger? Have you tried charging battery?
Maybe it seems like it is turning well, but maybe it is not and the battery is marginal and cant turn engine and have anough power for the ignition.

Tell us more what you find.

Dave

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[JStones]

Thanks for the tips. Starting fluid didnt do anything. Battery is on the charger now. Ill reply back soon with updates.

[JStones]

Went out this morning, took the bike off the charger and it fired up. Went thru the morning routine and went back out and exact same issue as last night. Battery going/gone bad?

[DanTheMan]

Yep, probably time for a new battery, and charging system maintenance as well.

[Steve]

Any time I see the suggestion to "use some starter fluid" it makes me cringe.

Yes, the battery could be one culprit, a couple of quick tests with your voltmeter will determine that.

Another possible cause is valve adjustment. How long since they were adjusted?

Since you have "ridden it daily all summer", it could easily be time for an adjustment.

.

[elrico]

Startle-ing Fluid ..Aqua Net hair Spray..scarey like Halloween New nitrous formula???

[JStones]

Its running again!

[tom203]

Its running again!

So, it cured itself? or did the starting fluid finally drift to the cylinders?

[MisterCinders]

Check my sig for a post that explores a number of basic starting issues.

Sounds like you need to test your charging system though.