Motorcycle Repair: 750 Virago wont start, motor brushes, boring question

Question
Chris, sorry to ask a boring question but it is driving me nuts! I have a  1994 XV750 Virago that wont start. Turning the key lights the Neutral light, then pressing the starter button makes the Oil and fuel light, 'light' but nothing else happens. I guess it might be the side stand switch or the Neutral switch but don't know what voltage levels should show where. So I wondered if you could help.
Many thanks
Rob

Answer
Hi Rob.
 The voltage levels through the sidestand switch is not important.

 What is important is that there is voltage going through.

 Check the switch with the ohmmeter.

 The sidestand switch is normally the first thing to fail, However the starter motor brushes could need to be cleaned up at the contact points inside, or the brushes may even need to be replaced.

Good luck.
FALCON