Hi my fellow riders, I’m really stuck here. My 2001 Honda Shadow just clicks when I hit the ignition, but it won’t actually start. I’ve tried the basics, but I’m stuck. Anyone faced this problem before?
Quick Response
I’ve had the same issue, and tapping the starter motor with a hammer actually got my bike to start. It’s not a permanent fix, but it’s a start.
Solutions that worked for users
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Personal Experience | Estimated Cost (USD) | Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tap the Starter Motor with a Hammer | 1 | Tapped the starter motor lightly | $0 | 5-10 |
| Check if the Motor is Locked Up | 1 | Rolled the bike in 2nd gear | $0 | 5-10 |
| Short Across the Starter Solenoid | 0 | Shorted the solenoid | $0 | 5-10 |
| Check the Clutch and Kickstand Safety Switches | 0 | Checked safety switches | $0 | 5-10 |
Symptoms
- Bike only clicks when trying to start
- Starter motor doesn’t engage
- Lights dim but no engine turnover
Possible Causes
- Weak or dead battery
- Faulty starter solenoid
- Bad safety switches
- Engine issues like a seized motor
Solutions that Worked
1. Tap the Starter Motor with a Hammer
What I Did:
Gave the starter motor a few light taps with a hammer.
Outcome:
The bike started right up.
Personal Experience:
After tapping the starter motor, my bike miraculously fired up. It’s a band-aid fix but got me out of a jam.
Estimated Cost:
$0
Time Needed:
5-10 minutes
Steps:
- Locate the starter motor on your bike. It’s usually near the bottom of the engine.
- Use a small hammer to lightly tap the starter motor casing.
- Try starting the bike again.
Expert Tip:
This is a temporary fix and should only be used for diagnosis. If this works, the starter motor likely needs to be replaced or rebuilt. Also, be gentle with the tapping to avoid damaging other components.
2. Check if the Motor is Locked Up
What I Did:
Put the bike in 2nd gear, rolled it a bit, and then dropped the clutch.
Outcome:
The engine turned over, indicating it wasn’t seized.
Personal Experience:
I rolled the bike in 2nd gear and dropped the clutch. The engine turned over, which was a relief.
Estimated Cost:
$0
Time Needed:
5-10 minutes
Steps:
- Put the bike in 2nd gear.
- Roll the bike a few feet forward or backward.
- Quickly release the clutch lever to see if the engine turns over.
Expert Tip:
This is a quick way to check if the engine is seized. If the engine doesn’t turn over, you might be looking at a more serious issue that requires professional attention.
3. Short Across the Starter Solenoid
What I Did:
Used a screwdriver to short across the starter solenoid terminals.
Outcome:
The bike cranked and started.
Personal Experience:
After shorting the solenoid, the bike cranked up, indicating the solenoid was likely faulty.
Estimated Cost:
$0
Time Needed:
5-10 minutes
Steps:
- Locate the starter solenoid. It’s usually near the battery.
- Use an insulated screwdriver to short across the solenoid terminals.
- Try starting the bike.
Expert Tip:
Be very cautious while doing this to avoid electrical shorts or shocks. Always use an insulated screwdriver and keep your hands clear of other metal parts.
4. Check the Clutch and Kickstand Safety Switches
What I Did:
Inspected the clutch safety switch and the kickstand safety switch.
Outcome:
The bike started normally.
Personal Experience:
After ensuring both safety switches were functioning, the bike started without any issues.
Estimated Cost:
$0
Time Needed:
5-10 minutes
Steps:
- Locate the clutch safety switch near the clutch lever and the kickstand safety switch near the kickstand.
- Inspect the switches for any visible damage or loose connections.
- Use a multimeter to check for electrical continuity.
- Try starting the bike again.
Expert Tip:
These safety switches are often overlooked but can cause starting issues. They are easy to check and can save you a lot of time and frustration.
Motorcycle Models Where This Worked
- Honda Shadow 750 ACE, Year 2001