Motorcycle Repair: yamaha 83 virago, air fuel mixture, yamaha virago 750

Question
83 Yamaha Virago 750

My bike will not start and i have checked the starter motor and plugs.  When i push the starter it trys to fire, sometimes backfires and the other times it just grinds.    So my question to you is What could the problem be and what would you recommend.  Anything could help at this moment.


Thank you

Brent  

Answer
Hi Brent,

Q:
"...My bike will not start and i have checked the starter motor and plugs. When i push the starter it trys to fire, sometimes backfires and the other times it just grinds."


A:
From the description provided detailing the problem, I would say the list of possibilities is rather long.

With a more thorough description I would be able to form a more accurate diagnosis of the problem.

An engine needs three elements to run:
1) Correct air/fuel mixture
2) A spark at the exact time
3) Adequate cylinder compression

Troubleshoot these three elements to determine the cause of the problem.

I recommend that you get a copy of the repair manual and learn about troubleshooting procedures. The manual will pay for itself with the first repair. It has illustarted procedures on testing and repairing your MC.

I return tech information files by email. There was no email address with your question as requested.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively