'96 VRF 750: Engine Won't Start

I was riding home last night and my bike stalled on the freeway. I pulled over to the shoulder and my bike wouldn't start up again, so I had to push it off the freeway. Thankfully I was only a mile from my house.

When I try to start the bike, the engine doesn't turn over at all. I just hear the starter clicking, that's it. The battery has power and all my electronics seem good, maybe it's the some the ignition system...

My bike is a 1996 VFR 750. Any ideas where to start would be appreciated.

My mechanic skills are slim, so I'll probably end up taking it to a shop. Anybody know a good shop in San Jose CA?

Thanks!

 

Well, if you have a multimeter you need to check your charging system (i.e. battery condition and voltage at 5,000 rpms, stator condition, check the VFR Wiki for the in's and outs)

The quick response is it sounds like your regulator/ rectifier could have pooped out. There has been a real rash of those on VFRWorld lately. But it also could be a losse electrical connection, etc. But start with the charging system!

BZ

 

What Bubba said. don't ask how I know.

 

Thanks for the advice. I'll check out the charging system tonight.

 

Charge the battery.

Test the battery when you start the bike. If it drops below 10V, the battery is toast (won't hold a charge).

 

Thanks again everyone for the advice. I checked out the charging system last night and the regulator/rectifier is dead and the battery was only slightly drained.

Changing out the regulator/rectifier is a lot easier then I thought. Now I just have to find a new part...

 

Hey mightyQ:

I would also replace your battery along with your RR. A bad battery can take a new RR out.

BZ

 

The other thing that can do this is the damn sidestand switch, only it doesn't even click the solinoid. Mine no longer lives on the VFR and is keeping a bin tray from floating away in my shed.