9R WON'T START WITH CLUTCH PULLED IN : KawiForums.com Kawasaki Forums: Kawasaki motorcycle forums

ECLIPSE9R · 03-12-2006, 05:23 PM

I've had this problem for awhile but didn't address it since I could still ride. Don't remember exactly when it started but could have been after a get off. My bike starts but only in neutral. I remember being able to start it in gear as long as the clutch lever was pulled in. It hasn't affected rideability, just won't start if not in neutral. I do hear a clicking if I try to start with clutch pulled in. This happens even in neutral with the clutch lever pulled in. Any ideas? This is an '02 ZX9-R.

thack · 03-12-2006, 05:59 PM

There is a switch at the clip-on for the clutch. The connector might be unplugged. Is the kickstand down? It might not start with the kickstand down and it stil in gear even if the clutch is engaged.

ECLIPSE9R · 03-12-2006, 07:31 PM

I'll have to check for that switch. I did have to replace the choke but don't remember any connectors. So long ago. It started with the kickstand down before. Thanks.

thack · 03-12-2006, 07:36 PM

It's called the starter lockout switch. It might have a yellow/green and light green wire.

thack · 03-12-2006, 07:39 PM

Sorry, it could be black and black/red.

ECLIPSE9R · 03-12-2006, 10:44 PM

Thanks, I'll check it out when I get the bike back together. It's being airbrushed right now.

kidcrash · 04-09-2006, 08:44 AM

had the same issue, it's the switch. Mine was on again off again.. a little contact cleaner from Rad Shack, all is well.

pesttt · 04-23-2006, 03:30 AM

Same problem on my bike....I tried looking for switch you guys are talking about...when I looked at mine I saw a connector that was already plugged in ... I disconnected it...(when disconnected bike won`t start up even when in neutral, so I plugged it back in... what does the switch look like? forgive my ignorance as I am still a newbie and this is my first bike...BUT DAMN do I love my 9 ... so please bare with me.

pesttt · 05-13-2006, 09:45 PM

anyone else know?

10163 · 05-13-2006, 11:39 PM

its a small switch with a 3 wire connector on the bottom of the clutch lever. Right now it is only starting by grounding through the neutral light. When you pull in the lever it interupts that ground and grounds through the other wire. This is where it is failing, its either worn badly or dirty. Its set up this way so it will start in neutral with out the clutch(like it has been) but when in gear you will need the clutch pulled.

hope this helps ya
Chris