Motorcycle Repair: Battery? Starter?, starter solenoid, seasonal storage

Question
Hi Falcon -

I'm a new rider with a 1983 Yamaha Maxim 550. It has been running OK, but after a long ride now it won't start.

It has new spark plugs. It had been cranking away, but I didn't hear any chugging or catching. I'm pretty sure it's getting gas OK.

After all the cranking (with at least 30 seconds break in between short bursts) I just recharged the battery.

Now, when I press the starter button all I hear is loud clicking from a part to the rear of the battery. No cranking at all.

Might I need a new starter or something? I'm not sure what all that clicking is or why it's not cranking.

Thanks for taking the time to do this.
- Dave

Answer
Hi Dave.
 Check the ignition fuse and all fuse connections.  Then check the starter circuit for both obvious and hidden shorts.

 If you have a bad starter solenoid, you can bypass that by running a heavy (8 guage) wire between the leads on the solenoid.  This is an emergency and test bypass.  Do not use it on a frequent basis.

 To see if you are getting a good spark, spray some automotive starting fluid into the air intake and start the bike.

 If it fails to start, then the problem is electrical.

 If it starts and then dies, then the problem is with fuel flow.

 If the bike spends time in seasonal storage, then you may want to pull and completely and properly clean the carbs.  

 You could also need the carbs synchronized and the valves checked.  Particularly if the bike has not had a complete tuneup in the past 6 months or 6000 miles.

Let me know what you find.
Good luck.
FALCON