I just picked up an 87 parts bike and was trying to get it started. Newbattery and if I jump the solenoid (screw driver across the terminals) it cranks but the botton does nothing. I tried a spare solenoid and a spare handlebar switch with no luck. I am pretty sure there is no kickstand switch on the 87. Any suggestions?
Thanks
Pat

 

ignition switch might be messed up !

 

Yea I though that but i have 2 and tried them both. Its possible but I don't think both are bad.

 

My 90 has an ignition switch, a starter switch (button), a neutral switch, a clutch switch, a side-stand switch, two 10 amp fuses, and a 30 amp fuse between the starter relay and battery. And that doesn't include the wiring and connectors.

 

Severed wire or connector undone? Blown or missing fuse?

Check the wires with a multimeter or a bulb with wires soldered to it and use your battery.

 

Sounds like a combination of solenoid switch faulty and maybe main fuse 30A
Possibly dirty terminals on the starter switch.
Poor connections from starter to battery ?
Hard to tell, really.
Try all the suggestions so far and find one that works.............

 

Another thing to check is the start stop switch may be at fault.

 

Get a test light - it only cost a few bucks and they help drastically. See if you are even getting any power to the switch, and follow the wiring back. If you have a diagram you can diagnose this problem pretty easy.

 

I have wiring diagrams for all the models if needed.

 

It could be any of the above mentioned switches. There are several. Also could be in the wiring. Hard to tell.