Motorcycle Shut Off While Riding And Won't Start
Motorcycle riders go through a lot of hassle to keep their bikes in good condition. However, even with the best care, accidents can happen. One of the most frustrating situations a rider can face is when their motorcycle shuts off while riding and won't start. This can be a scary experience for riders, especially if they are in the middle of traffic or on a deserted road. In this article, we will discuss the common reasons why a motorcycle shuts off while riding and what to do when it won't start.
Common Reasons Why a Motorcycle Shuts Off While Riding
There are several reasons why a motorcycle shuts off while riding. Here are some of the most common ones:
Fuel Issues
Fuel issues are one of the most common reasons why a motorcycle shuts off while riding. If the fuel tank is empty or has low fuel, the bike will shut off. Another fuel-related issue is a clogged fuel filter, which can prevent the fuel from reaching the engine.
Electrical Issues
Electrical issues can also cause a motorcycle to shut off while riding. A faulty battery or charging system can prevent the motorcycle from starting. Loose or corroded connections can also cause electrical issues.
Overheating
Overheating is another common issue that can cause a motorcycle to shut off while riding. If the engine is overheating, the bike's computer will shut it off to prevent further damage. Overheating can be caused by a faulty cooling system or low coolant levels.
Ignition Issues
Ignition issues can also cause a motorcycle to shut off while riding. A faulty ignition switch or spark plug can prevent the engine from starting or cause it to shut off while riding.
What to Do When Your Motorcycle Shuts Off While Riding
If your motorcycle shuts off while riding, the first thing you should do is try to pull over to a safe location. Once you have safely pulled over, follow these steps:
Check Fuel Levels
Check the fuel level in your tank. If the tank is empty, fill it up with gas. If the tank has low fuel, try to get to the nearest gas station.
Check Electrical Connections
Check the battery and charging system for any loose or corroded connections. If you find any, clean or tighten them as needed.
Check for Overheating
If the engine is overheating, let it cool down before attempting to start the motorcycle again. Check the cooling system and coolant levels and add coolant if necessary.
Check for Ignition Issues
Check the ignition switch and spark plug for any faults. If you find any, replace them as needed.
Call for Help
If you have tried all of the above steps and your motorcycle still won't start, it's time to call for help. You can call a friend or a professional towing service to get your motorcycle to a repair shop.
Conclusion
Motorcycles shutting off while riding can be a scary experience, but it's important to stay calm and follow the steps above to get back on the road as soon as possible. Remember to take care of your motorcycle to prevent these issues from happening in the first place. Regular maintenance and checkups can go a long way in preventing breakdowns on the road.