Solenoid Starter Push Button-EVO anyone?
Dirt don't hurt
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 21,065
Likes: 4,561
From: Haslet Texas
Taking a lap around the lake with my sweetie and pulled in at the top of the ramp facing up hill for some sunset pictures. Turning around and rolling toward the water didn't look like a very good option. The button on the handle bar finally kicked the starter over and the next day a new relay and manual button were ordered.
1st Gear
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
From: Ga.
I rewired my relay to where the lights are off while cranking, very simple to do, and it definitely helps. The only drawback would be if you kill it in night time traffic, when you hit the starter button, no lights.
Road Master
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 957
Likes: 2
From: Carlsbad Springs Ontario
OK , back to basics . Prove your battery as good by having it " Load tested " at any auomotive parts shop for free . New batteries can internally short as well as old ( been there done that ) and will show false multimeter specs. unless under load. If your battery checks ok ., check starter solenoid/relays , dirty bar switch , wire contact points , last but not least ... starter motor itself.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 9,332
Likes: 3,873
From: Upstate New York
No, it means anyone can crank the bike over. To start the bike requires ignition (spark), and that's on a separate circuit. Don't believe me? Try starting your bike with the solenoid push button with the ignition locked.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 2,856
Likes: 127
From: Middle of Kansas
Didn't the older ignition switches have two positions for starting? One with the headlight off, and the second one with it on. Could these be retrofitted to the later bikes? Just a thought.
HD Forum Stories
The Best of Harley-Davidson for Lifelong Riders
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Verdad Gallardo
8 Best Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
10 Worst Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
Killer Custom's Jail Break Is The Breakout That Refused to Blend In
Verdad Gallardo
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Verdad Gallardo
Harley-Davidson Reveals Super Cool Cafe Racer Concept
Verdad Gallardo
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Verdad Gallardo
10 Motorcycles You Should Never Buy
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Harley-Davidson Needs to Fix in 2026
Verdad Gallardo
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 9,332
Likes: 3,873
From: Upstate New York
Yes they did. Mine had that style switch, but it worked lights in both positions and ignition in the last ('94/'95 peculiarity). On my bike it was simple to convert it to the old style day/night running positions. I don't know what would be required for a '96/up Softail. It can probably be done, but will require a bit more rewiring.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 66,948
Likes: 4,573
From: TOAK western branch
Yes they did. Mine had that style switch, but it worked lights in both positions and ignition in the last ('94/'95 peculiarity). On my bike it was simple to convert it to the old style day/night running positions. I don't know what would be required for a '96/up Softail. It can probably be done, but will require a bit more rewiring.