Bike wont start

RickHolt · Traffic Copper Joined: 17 Mar 2004 Karma :

I've got a GS500. Started it up the other day and backed it out of the garage, when I went to shut the garage the bike died (happens quite often when I don't give it enough choke). Since then the bike wont start, it makes a sound like the starter motor is trying but not getting anywhere. We've checked all the electrics and they work, changed the battery, and tried it with a booster.

I've just tried something that I should have tried before. I put the bike in gear and tried to move the back wheel with the clutch pulled in. It wont move at all. So I'm guessing it's the clutch.

What am I likely to need to do with it? I've got the book and will figure it out with my dad anyway but would be nice to know if this is going to take ages and cost a fortune. Start a new job on Monday and need something reliable enough to get me there.

Rick.

Bezzer · World Chat Champion Joined: 14 Apr 2005 Karma :

Forget about the actual clutch, that has no bearing whatsoever on it dying or not starting (ignoring the clutch switch).
Find out if you've got a spark first, take the plugs out and turn it over with them earthing on the cylinder -DON'T HOLD THEM-
should be getting a fat blue spark, if not then clean them up and try again, probably something as simple as dirty wet plugs stopping it from firing.
If they check out then go to fuel checks but try the plugs first then get back if they are OK.
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I used to be indecisive but now I'm not quite so sure.

ancientd · Renault 5 Driver Joined: 22 Jan 2006 Karma :

Check the plugs to see if they are wet. if wet and do not smell of petrol you could have a bad head gasket. Try to turn the engine over with the plugs out. This will give an indication as to whether the starter is acting properly and will also clear any fluid from the starter. I suspect that you have simply flooded the bike by using to much choke, after removing the plugs, try heating them up slightly, replace them and try to start it with less or no choke at all, good luck.
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I ride 3 bikes, a Thundercat, an FZRexup 1000 Streetfighter and a Jawa 350 Combo, something for all seasons.