Indeed, it really sounds like the starter motor or the relay to me.

 

Thank you all for your help. I found a GREAT new mechanic / shop and they located the problem. My baby is back home and running like a charm.
Evidently, the starter button assembly had a crack right where the contacts were. It's plastic and they said they could glue it to keep it in place and it would work, but I opted to have it replaced.
I am so happy and relieved to have it fixed!

Rubber side down ~ happy riding!

 

Think I said that earlier

Glad you're riding. Can I ride vicariously thru you? Winter's here in Philly

 

Indeed Kuroshio, you did hit the nail on the head...
but as you said, if the headlights dimmed (or shut off completely) when the starter button was pressed, that should mean the circuit was closing...which suggests the switch was functioning correctly.
I find THAT interesting, if you have any theories, please share.

 

Hi all! I'm posting here because I see some really helpful people responded above to resolve skiingchik's starting issue. I have an '07 CBR600RR that I can't start.

I bought the bike used and it already had non-OEM halos installed. I decided I wanted to replace the headlights and fairings and thought that I could do it myself (wrong, so so wrong!). The problem started after I removed the old headlights and replaced them with new ones. I then disconnected the new headlights and I still can't start the bike.

Symptoms:
Turning the key, I can hear the fuel pump prime (whirring sound) and the console lights turn on. Pressing the starter button doesn't make any sound - no click, no cranking. Nada. I double checked the voltage of the battery and it's around 12.5V.

This experience has been humbling and I admittedly know little about how bikes work or electrical wiring. I called the local shop but they refuse to work on non-OEM components. The already limited riding days in Michigan are quickly passing by and I don't know what to do...

Any help greatly appreciated, and if you happen to live close to Ann Arbor, I'll gladly compensate you if you can help me get the bike running again.

Thanks!

 

Have you tried "Bridging" the starter switch to get the starter motor turning

 

No, I haven't. Can you link me to some instructions on how to do this? Thanks!

 

Its basically using a good insulated screwdriver across the terminals on the starter solenoid to see if the starter turns, this will startle you with the sparks, remember theres a lot of amps going across the bridging so keep your fingers out of the way, if the starter motor turns then you have a faulty starter solenoid, you will need another. Don't leave the screwdriver across the terminals for any longer than a second, if the starter motor turns you have proved the fault. Remember to turn the ignition on when you are ready to start

 

Is it in gear? Kickstand down but not in neutral?

 

@74demon - Not in gear; the neutral light comes on on the console. I have made that boneheaded move before, though...

@CaBaRet - This is the location of the starter solenoid, right? https://goo.gl/images/E0Rcsx

Will try bridging it today and will report back.

Thanks all.