Bike won't fire on start up sometimes.

[Gs650gjosh]

Hi everyone, I have just passed my bike test, I've got a gs650g 1981. I love it. The only issue is, its hit and miss with the start up. I've got a brand new battery, starter motor seems fine. What should I else could it be? Cheers 

 

[wobblegob]

Check valve clearances

 

[Bowler]

23 minutes ago, wobblegob said:

Check valve clearances

 

Next to this, have you done a basic check-up or maintenance?

Make sure you have:

1. Clean carbs
2. New/clean air filter
3. New/decent spark plugs

And maybe a little more info about the problem. Does the starter go round? Or is it hit or miss for turning? If so, it could be the starter relay is iffy.

[Gs650gjosh]

I'm sorry, I know nil about bike mechanics The starter always makes a healthy starting noise but 50% of the time the engine doesn't kick in

[Gixer1460]

Best start learning or get used to being raped at a stealer! Get a Haynes manual, read it and read it again then try and follow the fault finding diagnosis but if you haven't got at least a good basic toolkit you will be stuffed to fix things but may at least be able to point to the problem at a stealers!

[Bowler]

2 hours ago, Gs650gjosh said:

I'm sorry, I know nil about bike mechanics The starter always makes a healthy starting noise but 50% of the time the engine doesn't kick in

So the starter goes round, but the engine doesn't? That sounds like the startcoupling, which is a challenge to fix as a rookie, but not impossible

[Blubber]

Check your kill switch wiring 

[Dezza]

Is it random or is there some sort of pattern? For instance, does it often refuse to start when only hot or when cold?