I have been told a stronger starter motor will stop the occasional (but often enough) issue I have when I try to start the bike and the engine kicks back against the starter motor and makes an awful racket. Has anyone else ever heard of this remedy?

 

good question..i have the same problem.

 

Look into a upgraded replacement starter clutch (bendix) from All Ballz Racing. They do have complete starters if you really want to go that route.

 

first thing first CHECK YOUR BATTERY

 

Got this tip here.
When starting bike hot don't wait for the fuel pump to prime. Turn on ignition and immediately start bike . Works for me . I used to have the same problem starting after stopping for gas or taking a rest break. It has also helped a few of my fellow riders eliminate the problem.

 

+1 check battery first for sure. You did not list the bike or if you had engine work.
There is a darn good reason HD made ACR standard on the 103

 

Having checked you battery, also check and clean the main battery cables, at BOTH ends of both of them. Make sure everything is clean and that your starter is getting full power.

 

All of the things mentioned so far play a part in this issue:

* Battery
* Starter Bendix
* Not waiting for the pump to prime
* Compression releases

The compensator spring pack may be getting weak.

I addressed all of the above to take care of mine.

 

If your battery is fine and if you plan on keeping your bike for a long time, compression releases might be a option.
You don’t say the bike you have...

 

Ok, here's what I have. A 2013 Ultra Classic, aside from a Stage 1 it is bone stock. The battery is brand new and the cables are tight. I'm pretty sure it has compression releases, please correct me if I am wrong. And yes, I do wait for the fuel pump to prime. It seems to do it only when the bike is cold by the way.