GS450L ign problem

[jerseygeorge]

Hello everyone. I recently picked up an 87 GS450L which had been sitting for quite a while. After dealing with some carb issues, I have it running pretty well. The problem is, when i put the bike in 1st or second gear, the engine shuts off. With the key on and the bike in neutral, there is primary voltage at both coils . When I move the shifter out of neutral and into 1st or 2nd, the voltage drops to 0. Anybody have any ideas?

[tom203]

It's some kind of safety circuit interlock-likely a kickstand switch to indicate the kickstand is up or ignition is killed. look for switch at kickstand

[pete]

Yep, sidestand switch sounds like the culprit there, and there's also likely to be a clutch safety switch.

Man I'm glad mine has neither!

[jerseygeorge]

It's some kind of safety circuit interlock-likely a kickstand switch to indicate the kickstand is up or ignition is killed. look for switch at kickstand

Good call. I put the kick stand up, problem solved. Thanks.