Motorcycle Repair: 1985 Yamaha XJ700 Electrical problem, pain pal, electrical circuits

Question
I apprecaite your help on my last question, but it seems as soon as I get one thing taken care, more problems pop up.

A while back someone knocked over my bike, since then (and it seems to be getting more regular) my bike doesnt want to start.  I'm sure it's electrical but need to pin point it and get some advice on fixing it.  When the bike was knocked over it bent the right side of the handlebar and pushed up my tach.  I'm hoping it's just a loose wire or 2.

Here's what happens, sometimes not always:

When I have the bike in neutral and go to start it, the neutral light does not come on and the starter won't work.  Usually I just turn the key off and then on again and all is well.  Sometimes it takes a bit more turning.  While the neutral light is not on here's what I've noticed:

My front turn signals always light up, but when I
switched them to blinker they would not blink.

The horn does not honk.

The headlight and display (tach & speedo) lights came on most of the time, but other times did not.

With the problem going on I am unable to start the bike at all, even with clutch pulled (also tried in first gear but it did not start)(side stand was up).

The bike is a 1985 XJ700N Maxim.

If you can point in the right direction I'll be most appreciative!

Thanks,
-Perry Miler

Answer
Hi Perry,

I can feel your pain, pal.

I suspect a loose connection, faulty ignition switch, or faulty safety switch.

You'll have to learn how to check suspect electrical circuits and related components. Easy to do.

Remember, include an email addy with your questions. I return test and repair info via email. Standing by...


Respectfully,
Mark Shively