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Bike only starts in neutral.

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  #1  
Old 11-07-2012 | 12:43 PM
ECK Road King Classic's Avatar
ECK Road King Classic
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Default Bike only starts in neutral.

I replaced the stock mini ape handlebars on my crossbones with narrow beach bars. There are no cable changes that need to be made. Now the bike will not start while in gear, only neutral. Any ideas what I did or what the problem could be.
 
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Old 11-07-2012 | 12:48 PM
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Not that I've changed bars or had the problem but I bet there is a switch on the clutch.
The wire is shorted or unplugged.
 
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Old 11-07-2012 | 12:57 PM
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Originally Posted by ECK Road King Classic
I replaced the stock mini ape handlebars on my crossbones with narrow beach bars. There are no cable changes that need to be made. Now the bike will not start while in gear, only neutral. Any ideas what I did or what the problem could be.
Maybe it never worked correctly but now it does. I don't know which but, there are models that don't start when in gear.
 
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Old 11-07-2012 | 01:00 PM
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No it used to start while parked in gear. That is funny though.
 
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Old 11-07-2012 | 01:11 PM
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As mentioned, it sounds like you have a problem with the clutch safety switch that is located behind the clutch lever.
 
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Old 11-07-2012 | 01:13 PM
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soft 02
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Originally Posted by ghostrider69
As mentioned, it sounds like you have a problem with the clutch safety switch that is located behind the clutch lever.
+1 Most aftermarket levers dont have the bump for the switch. I JB weld puttyed one on mine.
 
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Old 11-07-2012 | 03:01 PM
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+1 there is a switch on your clutch lever. I'd start there
 
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Old 11-07-2012 | 05:07 PM
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Thanks guys, will work on it tonight.
 
  #9  
Old 11-07-2012 | 09:15 PM
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If you unplugged the wires from under the tank, be sure to check there too. I did the same thing when I "tried" Street Slammer bars on my Fatboy. Had to get back under there and reseat the connector. Slammers were not a great idea, but we won't go there.
 
  #10  
Old 11-08-2012 | 02:51 PM
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Ok, Thanks for all the help. That is what the problem was. Switch was still good. But I found a break or opening in the flexible conduit that contains the wiring and I think that particular wire was ground to the handlebars. So I basically taped the conduit, reinstalled the handgrip and housing, this time being a little more careful with tucking it in where it is supposed to go. I'm just glad that I didn't have to go back to the dealer with my tail between my legs.
 


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