My trusty Honda Rebel, which has never given me trouble before, is now just giving me a series of clicks and refuses to start. It’s throwing my whole routine off and I’m clueless about what to do. Has anyone here faced this and figured out a fix?
Response
I had a similar scare with my Rebel. In my case, it was the battery that needed replacing. Once I swapped it out, everything was back to normal. It’s a good place to start since battery issues are often the root cause of starting problems.
Solutions that Worked for Users
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Approx. Cost (USD) | Approx. Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Replacement | 2 | $50 – $100 | 30 – 60 |
| Kill Switch Check | 2 | $0 | 10 – 20 |
Symptoms
- Persistent clicking sound when attempting to start.
- Electrical systems light up, but the engine remains silent.
Possible Causes
- Battery might be dead or too weak to start the engine.
- Electrical connections, particularly the kill switch, could be malfunctioning.
Solutions that Worked
1. Battery Replacement
- What I Did: Swapped out the old battery for a new one.
- Outcome: The bike started up without any further issues.
- Personal Experience: It was a relief to find such a simple solution.
- Estimated Cost: $50 – $100
- Time Needed: 30 – 60 minutes
- Detailed Steps:
- Locate and access the battery compartment, usually under the seat or a side panel.
- Disconnect the negative terminal first to prevent short circuits, then the positive.
- Remove any securing brackets or bars and take out the old battery.
- Place the new battery in, ensuring it fits snugly.
- Connect the positive terminal first, then the negative, securing them tightly.
- Test the electrical system before starting the bike.
- Handy Tips:
- Always dispose of the old battery responsibly.
- Consider upgrading to a higher-quality battery for better performance.
- Expert Tip: Regular battery checks and using a battery maintainer during off-seasons can greatly extend battery life.
2. Kill Switch Check
- What I Did: Inspected and adjusted the kill switch.
- Outcome: Resolved the starting issue.
- Personal Experience: A simple fix that saved a trip to the mechanic.
- Estimated Cost: $0
- Time Needed: 10 – 20 minutes
- Detailed Steps:
- Find the kill switch, usually located on the right handlebar.
- Inspect for any visible damage or loose connections.
- Use a contact cleaner to clean the switch internals.
- Test the switch’s functionality by toggling it and observing the bike’s response.
- If necessary, adjust the switch’s position for better contact.
- Handy Tips:
- Avoid using excessive force on the kill switch to prevent damage.
- If the switch is damaged, consider replacing it.
- Expert Tip: Familiarize yourself with your bike’s electrical system for easier troubleshooting.
Motorcycle Models Where This Worked
- Honda Rebel 450 (1986)
- Honda Rebel 500 (2017, 2018)
- Honda Rebel 1100 Manual (2021)
Extra tips
- Battery Care: Regularly check the battery’s voltage and keep it charged, especially during cold weather.
- Electrical System Check: Periodically inspect all electrical connections for corrosion or wear.
- Kill Switch Maintenance: Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication can prevent switch failures.