I've been having a starting problem for a while now and it's continually getting worse. I get home from work, shut off the bike, open my shed, and it won't start. It sounds like it's not even turning over. And it makes an awful sound trying to turn over, like when trying to start a car when already running. Eventually, it sounds better, I can hear it turning over then it starts. Starter? Solenoid? How easy a fix? Will a heavy-duty starter fix this?

 

(Bump) Anybody?

 

Starter issue?

 

I had that problem and the motor kicked back and killed the starter. Went with a drag specialties starter and have not had a problem since. Cheaper than a Harley starter as well.

 

You can't diagnose anything until your battery and connections are in good order.

 

^ 2nd that!

What ride do you have? Model / year are always important details if you'd like the right answer.

I'd even consider the solenoid isn't kicking the gear out correctly.

 

It's a 2009 Low Rider, bought new 2 years ago. Python 3 slip-ons, SE air intake, & download all done within a month after purchase, has run perfectly since then. The battery cables are good, clean and tight. No exhaust leaks anywhere. Plugs and gaps look good but are stock. battery is good, use a tender to check & charge. Air cleaner is clean and I clean it each season regardless. Am I forgetting anything? Turns over fine when cold. When hot, will not turn over and I get the grinding. Have to wait a bit when hot, not good when out with friends and they all have to stand around and wait. I'd like to get this resolved so I don't damage anything else in the meantime. (flywheel?)

 

could be your battery, even though its only 2yrs old...

 

Hard hot starts usually indicate a bad starter. Worn windings and contacts in the starter can create a huge drag when warm, when going bad.

 

What Johnny C said.