Motorcycle Repair: how do i check for spark, cbr 600 honda, spark plug wire

Question
i have a 1999 cbr 600(honda)i am not getting no start its cranking but no start i have full tank of gas how do i check for spark

Answer
Sham, you will have to get down to a spark plug wire and either remove the wire and the spark plug, then lay the plug and wire on the cylinder head and check it that way, or if you have a spare plug, just attach the wire to it, grounded against the cylinder head/frame. If you have bodywork over the motor, you will have to dismantle it to the point where you can access the plug wires.

If you let the bike sit for more than 2 weeks, you may have fuel separation in the fuel system. Drain the float bowls into a cup, so you can see what comes out. Today's fuels tend to separate into a layer of gasoline and alcohol. The gas floats to the top and the alcohol will sink to the bottom and plug up the tiny idle jets, causing a no start/idle condition. You may need to drain and replace all the fuel in the system, including draining out the fuel filter.

Be sure the KILL switch on the handlebars is not malfunctioning. No spark can come from a failed pulse generator coil at the flywheel or the ignition module.

Go to www.bikebandit.com and check HONDA parts options and then find your  model/year machine. That will show you the illustrations of the ignition components and cost/availability of parts.

Bill Silver