QuestionI own a 1981 Honda CX 500 Custom. While riding to school, my bike died on me in the parking lot. Since then, I have not been able to get it to start.
Prior to this problem, I would have to charge my battery every two months (is this normal? I ride only on the weekends.)
Now, when I attempt to start the bike, all the electronics (nothing fancy, just stock lights and gauges) light up fine, but the bike simply sputters. It occasionally starts, but immediately dies out when I roll on the gas or try to shift into first. I always start in neutral.
Do you have any ideas? Can you recommend any shops I can take my bike to in the Las Vegas area? Thanks.
AnswerHi Brian,
The electrical needs a battery to be fully charged and in good condition or the engine may not perfrom properly as described.
If left unrepaired, a defective battery may cause excessive stress on the charging sytem. As a result, other parts may fail. You shouldn't have to charge the battery every couple of weeks.
If the MC was stored awhile, gas in the carburetor float bowls may have varnished (gummed). Carb jets and passageways become obstructed. In mild cases, the engine may run poorly. In moderate to sever cases, the egine won't start.
Perform an output test of the charging system. Check battery voltage (should be no less than 12.6 VDC). Visit www.electrexusa.com and follow their on-line troubleshooting chart. I recommend their parts if something must be replaced. High quality stuff.
If you need to know how to perform tests, send me an email address as requested. I'll return the info. Also, buy the reapir manual for test and repair how-to on every topic.
I'm in Dayton, Ohio. I don't know of any Las Vegas shops to refer you to. : )
Respectfully,
Mark Shively
