Motorcycle Repair: 1990 883 starter problem, starter solenoid, 883 sportster

Question
QUESTION: hi. ive got a 1990 883 sportster. ive recently put a new starter motor on it but when i press the starter button all it does is push the shaft out and not spin. could u help me out? thanks

ANSWER: Do you have power going to the starter from the battery? Do you have a good ground for the battery, at both ends?
mike

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: yes to both. i noticed that the earth cable from the starter to battery and the earth from the frame to the battery are different a thickness. is this right? cheers

Answer
The thickness is fine. If you have power going to the starter and the starter solenoid is moving the shaft outward then the starter should spin, unless the motor is not turning, or there is damage to the starter solenoid and its not letting power go to the starter motor. I would remove the starter and bench test it to make sure its good
Good luck and happy riding
Mike