You know what, Guzzi? That is an interesting scenario. I just ran it again, making sure the frayed cables weren't touching anything. Guess what? Starter worked as advertized. Im thinking yous guys got this licked for me. I guess i have to order a new throttle cable. Thanks everyone!!!

 

Let's hope it's fixed. Anyway the starter problem led you to a potential bigger problem if the throttle cable would have snapped in traffic.
A throttle cable snapped on me many years ago in the middle of nowhere, before cell phones. Rerouted the one good cable and turned the throttle into a "twist forward" to accelerate. Rode home 90 miles on Texas Hill Country roads with the most deer(90-100) I have ever encountered on a trip. Talk about pucker factor.

 

Thats a crazy story, Guzzi. You're right though. As disappointed as I was to find this, I sure am glad it didnt break out on the road. Upon further inspection, it is not the throttle cable, but the idle cable. Just ordered a new one, with some fresh oil and a new filter. I'm sure putting the new one on will be a real party for me. Thanks again! I am very thankful to all of you.

 

Tie the new cable to the old cable before you remove the old one with either safety wire, fishing line,or a twist tie. This will ensure you have correct routing for the new cable. Just take your time and pull it through slowly.

 

Also before installing compare the old and new cables carefully to be sure they are exactly the same, pay particular attention to the length of exposed cable at each end vs the sleeve and the size & shape of the nubs on the ends.
Nothing worse than finally getting it installed only to find out that it can't be adjusted correctly.

 

I have an 09 Nightster myself and just went through this problem. For me it was the starter button that was having issues, nothing to do with the cables. I ended up having to order a whole new set of controls and just splicing in the new button. If you have any issues, check that button next.