Motorcycle Repair: 86 Honda 125M

Question
QUESTION: I am working on a friends 86 125M Honda.  He tried to start the engine with the recoil starter and the machine locked up, he could not pull the cord.  He then started the motor with the electric starter and the motor was making a ticking sound that is coming from the right side of the motor near the footpeg.

ANSWER: Cecil, Ive got some of the repair parts for the recoil starters in stock. The noise in the right side could be loose linkage that disengages the clutch when shifting gears. If you need parts for the ropestart let me know. Gary....620-242-6851

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QUESTION: Recoil starter was cleaned and reinstalled.  Motor started and ran with the ticking on the right side.  About two mimutes of running the noise stopped.  Machine shifted and ran normal.  Motor was turned off and the recoil starter again felt like it was locked up. Removed the right side case cover and noticed that the crank bearing outer race turns as the motor is rolled over by the recoil starter.  I believe that it is the crank bearing. I have farm machines that have made strange noises when a bearing had rough spots on the race or balls. What is your thoughts?

Answer
Cecil, you may be onto something. Sometimes the sound can change as oil may lubricate the bad spots. But as it usually goes for some of us. Its not always a easy fix. If it is a bad bearing it presses in from the inside and the crank slips into it when assembling the motor.