My bike doesn't start, won't turn over. I took off the seat, and when I start-up all I hear is a light click sound from starter relay. Does this mean I need a new relay, or could it be something else (solenoid?).

Thanks for the help...

1991 1200 XLH

 

First thing I would check is the cables. Could be a loose one. Don't ask how I know.

 

+1

 

check you ground wire on the battery.

 

If you just washed your bike, pull all the fuses and dry them off and get a can of compressed air and blow out the holes they go into.

 

Regarding the fuses I would also apply some dieletric grease to the fuse tips before reinstalling them.

 

Check you hot wire. Their notorious for wearing through on Sportys, apparently the lower boot tends to retain moisture. Same thing happened with mine.

 

How old is your battery and what is the immediate starting history of your bike?
After you check the cables get a voltmeter and hook it to your battery. Should read 12 + volts. Turn on the key (lights will burn etc.) should still read 12 + v. Keep an eye on the meter and press the start button. If the meter drops below 8 v, have the battery load tested at HD or Advanced Auto, etc. Rule of thumb, if the engine pauses and then truns over (stock engine), battery is weak but still may last months.

 

FWIW, I have had similar electrical problems and when I finally got to the root cause, it was loose and slightly corroded battery cables. I disconnectedall 4 points, physically cleaned them with a wire brush and sandpaper, applied dielectric grease, and reassembled everything very snuggly. No problems since - knock wood!