My Honda Shadow motorcycle just won’t start, and I’ve noticed there’s no spark. Can anyone help?
Response
I’ve been in the same situation with my Honda Shadow bike. I would first check the voltage of the ignition coil and have it replaced if the readings are off.
Solutions that worked for users
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Personal Experience | Estimated Cost (USD) | Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Check the Ignition Coil | 5 | Replaced the faulty ignition coil | $50-$100 | 30-60 |
| Inspect the Kill Switch | 4 | Flipped the kill switch to “On” | $0 | 5-10 |
| Examine the CDI Box | 3 | Swapped the CDI box | $50-$100 | 20-40 |
| Check the Stator | 2 | Checked the stator’s resistance | $0 | 15-30 |
| Inspect Fuses and Battery | 2 | Replaced a blown fuse | $5-$10 | 10-20 |
| Check the Side Stand Switch | 1 | Bypassed the side stand switch | $0 | 5-10 |
Symptoms
- Motorcycle won’t start
- Engine cranks but no spark
- Ignition system unresponsive
Possible Causes
- Faulty ignition coil
- Bad kill switch
- Defective CDI box
- Damaged stator
- Blown fuses
Solutions that Worked
1. Check the Ignition Coil
- What I Did: Replaced the faulty ignition coil.
- Outcome: The bike started right up.
- Personal Experience: After replacing the ignition coil, the bike fired up immediately.
- Estimated Cost: $50-$100
- Time Needed: 30-60 minutes
Steps:
- Locate the ignition coil on your bike, usually found near the engine.
- Disconnect the battery to avoid any electrical issues.
- Use a multimeter to check for resistance in the ignition coil.
- If the readings are out of spec, remove the old ignition coil.
- Install the new ignition coil and reconnect the battery.
- Try starting the bike to see if the issue is resolved.
Expert Tip:
Always check the ignition coil first, as it’s a common point of failure in the ignition system. Also, consider using dielectric grease on the coil connections for better conductivity.
2. Inspect the Kill Switch
- What I Did: Checked the kill switch and flipped it to the “On” position.
- Outcome: The bike started.
- Personal Experience: Realized the kill switch was accidentally in the “Off” position.
- Estimated Cost: $0
- Time Needed: 5-10 minutes
Steps:
- Locate the kill switch on your handlebar.
- Make sure it’s in the “On” position.
- Use a multimeter to check for continuity if still not working.
- Clean the contacts of the kill switch if necessary.
- Test again by trying to start the bike.
Expert Tip:
The kill switch is often overlooked but can be the culprit. Always check its position and functionality. If it’s sticky or hard to move, a quick spray of electrical contact cleaner can help.
3. Examine the CDI Box
- What I Did: Swapped the CDI box with a known good one.
- Outcome: The bike started without any issues.
- Personal Experience: After swapping the CDI box, the bike started right up.
- Estimated Cost: $50-$100
- Time Needed: 20-40 minutes
Steps:
- Locate the CDI box on your bike, usually under the seat or side panel.
- Disconnect the old CDI box by unplugging the connectors.
- Connect the new CDI box.
- Secure it in place and ensure all connections are tight.
- Try starting the bike to confirm if the issue is resolved.
Expert Tip:
The CDI box is a critical component for ignition. If you have a spare bike or can borrow a CDI box, swapping it can quickly confirm if the CDI is the issue. Also, make sure to disconnect the battery before starting this process to avoid any electrical mishaps.
Motorcycle Models Where This Worked
- 1993 Honda Shadow VT600
- 1983 750 Shadow
- 2002 750 ACE Deluxe
- 1998 VT750 A.C.E.
- 2004 Shadow Aero
Safety Info:
- Always disconnect the battery before working on electrical components.
- Use dielectric grease on electrical connections for better conductivity.
- Keep a multimeter handy for quick and accurate electrical tests.
Handy tips:
- Sometimes, hitting a bump can cause a failing side stand switch to fail completely, leading to a no-spark condition.
- Moisture can enter electrical components, especially after washing the bike. Always ensure that the bike is dry and that no water has entered electrical connectors or components.