Motorcycle Repair: wiring, power circuits, electrical issues

Question
Chris..I have a 1978XLS 250 Honda, just bought new battery and when I turned the key on nothing lights up but when I crank the bike and raise the rpm's my neutral lights up an every thing is right. The best that I can remember this was on when the key was turned on without cranking it, is that right? Does this have anything to do with the voltage regulator? thanks tshoe

Answer
Hi Mike.

This could be a whole series of electrical issues.  Have you checked, with a multimeter, all of the main power circuits as well as the main fuse?  You could have one or more shorts in the wiring or a bad main fuse.

Check those before you check anything else.  If they are all okay, then start checking the electrical components as per the  proceedures in the repair manual.

Start with that and let me know what you find.
Good luck and ride safe.
FALCON