Motorcycle Repair: RE: Hard starting, electrical diagnosis, vt500c

Question
Hello:

I just bought A 1984 HONDA SHADOW vt500c and I am having trouble starting it.  When it starts it runs like it is missing (like the timing is off).  Is this something that I can fix myself?  I have worked on cars before and I am pretty technical, but how difficult is this to do on a bike?  Also any other things that you reccommend I look at?

Thank you.

Answer
Hi Alberto,

The VT500 has electronic ignition. There's nothing to adjust in that respect. However, an electrical problem may be present. Electrical diagnosis must be performed to verify the integrity of the electrical system.

If the VT was stored for two weeks or longer, consider cleaning the carburetors. Gasoline gels with time. This is known as varnishing. When varnishing occurs, fuel/air passageways and jets can become obstructed by varnish deposits. If this is the case, the carbs must be thoroughly cleaned to restore proper performance.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively