What to do if the motorcycle won’t start

One of the most unexpected problems that a motorcycle can present is that it may not start at a specific moment. If this has ever happened to you, you may have worried that it was due to a serious issue. However, this doesn’t have to be the case, as there can be many reasons behind this incident.

How can you avoid this unforeseen event? What should you do when it occurs? To prevent you from worrying too much the next time it happens, we’ll analyze what might be causing this problem and how to act to resolve it.

There are many reasons why a motorcycle may not start, some of which are quite easy to fix, while others require a professional to solve. The main reasons that can prevent a motorcycle from starting are:Gasoline

Although it may seem very obvious at first, this is a more common problem than one might think. Our recommendation is to check the fuel level in the tank regardless of what the gauge indicates, as it may sometimes be broken and not show the correct level.

Power cut

Another reason that prevents a motorcycle from starting is if the red switch located on the right handlebar has been activated. This controls the flow of electricity to the motorcycle, causing the motorcycle not to receive enough power to start.

Side stand and gear engaged

Motorcycles are designed not to start if the side stand is deployed, as the current is automatically cut off when a gear is engaged, preventing it from starting.

Battery

If a motorcycle won’t start, it is often due to a problem with the battery, whether it is worn out or there is an issue with a component like the terminals that prevent contact. Our recommendation is that before charging it, you check that all your components are in good condition, so you don’t waste too much time.

Dirty air filter

The air filter tends to get dirty frequently, preventing air from reaching the engine, and therefore the necessary combustion in the engine for the motorcycle to start cannot occur. To avoid this, it is necessary to clean the filters thoroughly and regularly to prevent dirt buildup.

Fuel circuit

There are times when, despite having fuel in the tank, it cannot reach the engine due to a problem in the circuit that prevents it. If your motorcycle is old, you can check this by looking at the hose that directs the fuel. Conversely, with modern motorcycles, you should consult a professional.

Spark plugs not receiving power

If, when you press the motorcycle's start button, it tries to start but fails, the problem may be related to the electrical circuit. Since this is a wiring issue, it’s better to take it to a workshop to avoid causing a bigger problem with the motorcycle.

How to act when your motorcycle won’t start

If your motorcycle won’t start, you should never panic, as in most cases it is very easy to fix. The first thing you should do is check whether the problem is related to the gasoline or the battery, as these are the easiest to resolve. If that’s not the case, our recommendation is to call a tow truck or use a motorcycle trailer to take it to the nearest workshop for a complete check-up.