Motorcycle Repair: hard starting, suzuki marauder, marauder vz800

Question
Hi, I have an 02 Suzuki Marauder vz800. The other night when there was a heavy dew, the windshield and seat were wet. When I tried to start the bike, it took a few times to start it.  I think the plugs are the original ones as I bought the bike used. Is this a common problem for this bike? How can I eliminate this problem? Thanks in advance.

Answer
Hi Tony,

Q:  "...I have an 02 Suzuki Marauder vz800. The other night when there was a heavy dew, the windshield and seat were wet. When I tried to start the bike, it took a few times to start it. I think the plugs are the original ones as I bought the bike used. Is this a common problem for this bike? How can I eliminate this problem?

A:  It's common on all bikes. Cover the bike or park it in a garage.

lol.. I think you mean the non-starting problem. I suspect water shorting caused by the dew. It happens, though I won't say it's common or specific to the Maurader models.

Allow the plug wires and caps to dry. Maybe remove the spark plugs and inspect them for evidence of wet fouling. Simply clean or replace, re-install, and try starting again.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively