Motorbike won’t start: checks before calling for help
Run through the usual causes in order: kill switch, fuel, battery, plug.
17 items · 4 sections · motorbike, mechanic, driver, vehicle
Easy things first (5)
- Engine kill switch is in the RUN position
- Side stand is up, and the gear is in neutral (or the clutch is pulled in)
- Fuel tap is open or set to ON (some bikes have a reserve position)
- Key is fully in, and the ignition is on
- Fuel in the tank: look and rock the bikeDo not trust a broken fuel gauge.
Electrics (4)
- Dashboard lights come on? None at all points to a flat battery or loose terminal
- Press the starter: a fast click-click means a very flat battery
- Check the battery terminals are tight and not white or green with corrosion
- Check the main fuse in the fuse box
Cranks but does not fire (5)
- Choke on if the engine is cold, off once warm
- Smell for petrol: a strong smell means a flooded engineWait 10 minutes, then try with the throttle held fully open.
- If fuel is old (weeks), drain the tank and refill with fresh fuel
- Pull the spark plug: wet or black means a clean or new plug is needed
- Check the plug cap sits firmly on the plug
Still dead (3)
- Kick start if your bike has one
- Push start only if your bike’s manual allows it
- Call roadside help or a mechanic and tell them what you have already checked