Motorcycle Repair: 1982 GL 500 backfired then stopped working

Question
Hi,

I changed the thermostat in my silverwing then took it out for a test drive. I noticed there was a leak on the left side but i kept riding. It was running great but after about 5 miles it backfired twice then shut down. It's on an electric starter, when I tried starting it there was no power and the headlight wouldn't turn on either.

Any ideas about what i should look at to see where the problem is?  I appreciate any direction you can give me, thanks.

Jerry

Answer
Jerry, a couple of things. There may be a relay in the lighting system that diverts power to the starter when starting up then the headlight will come on after it starts. Check the coolant level as it may have allowed the engine to run hot and seize up.