Motorcycle Repair: Goldwing Starter, dirty spots, gl1200

Question
I have a 1986 Honda GL1200 Goldwing Aspencad. Whe I try to start it (sometimes) I hear the starter turning but not turning the motor over. Usually when I try to start it again it is OK. My first thought is to replace the starter. First is there any unusually thing I sould know about changing the starter. second is there anything else I should be looking into. the bike has 36,000 miles

thank you

Answer
Hi Gary.
 There is probably no need to replace the starter, but you may want to pull it and clean the internal contacts.  You probably have a few dirty spots on it.

 You should also probably check the connections and wires for corrosion and shorts.

 Double check the battery with a hygrometer if it is over 18 months old.  If you have any bad cells, then you have a bad battery.  This is not extremely likely, since the bike does sometimes start, but it is a remote possibility.

Good luck.
FALCON