Motorcycle Repair: `94 Honda Magna, starter clutch, honda magna

Question
over the past 2 years this has become worse. When depressing the start button, the starter doesn't engage the motor. sounding like nuts rattling in a tin can. When cold out, it never grabs. If set in the sun to warm the engine and left on it's side stand it might grab before I kill the battery.

History: the first 10 years I've had this bike, I've Never had one problem. two years ago the headlights kept blowing out and batteries kept loosing charge and blowing up. Result was I had to replace the voltage regulator. Not sure if that was due to electrical accessories or not. (driving lights and GPS)

This preceded that and has got worse. I WAS a daily rider. I need my 50/mpg bike back on the road. I've done most of the repairs myself except the voltage regulator, and am willing to do others. I'm doubting it's the starter since when it does grab it will turn it over with ease until it fires. Any ideas?

Answer
This sound slike corrosion on the starter clutch or damage to the starter clutch.  If the oil has been changed regularly, this problem may go away with more frequent use.  I don't know where the starter clutch is on these bikes (not my speciality) but if it is easy to remove and inspect I would look there first.  Good luck,  Jan