Motorcycle Won T Start But Turns Over
Motorcycles are great vehicles for those who love the thrill of the ride. But, like any other machine, they can sometimes develop issues that need to be addressed. One common problem that motorcycle owners face is when their bike won't start, but the engine turns over. This can be frustrating, especially if you don't know what's causing the issue. In this article, we'll explore some of the common reasons why a motorcycle won't start but turns over, and what you can do to fix it.
What does it mean when a motorcycle turns over?
Before we dive into the possible causes of a motorcycle that won't start but turns over, let's first clarify what it means when a motorcycle turns over. When you turn the key or press the starter button on your motorcycle, the starter motor engages with the engine and turns the engine over. This is what is meant by "turning over." If the engine turns over but doesn't start, it means that the starter motor is doing its job, but there is an issue elsewhere in the bike.
Common causes of a motorcycle that won't start but turns over
Now that you know what it means when a motorcycle turns over, let's explore some of the common reasons why a bike won't start even when the engine turns over.
1. Dead battery
A dead battery is one of the most common reasons why a motorcycle won't start. If your battery is dead or weak, it won't have enough power to start the engine, even if it turns over. You can test your battery using a multimeter, or by taking it to a mechanic to have it tested. If your battery is dead, you'll need to replace it.
2. Fuel system issues
If your motorcycle has fuel system issues, it may not be getting enough fuel to start the engine. This can be caused by a clogged fuel filter, a dirty carburetor, or a malfunctioning fuel pump. You can check your fuel filter and carburetor for debris and clean them if necessary. If you suspect that your fuel pump is the issue, you may need to take your bike to a mechanic to have it repaired or replaced.
3. Ignition system issues
If your motorcycle's ignition system isn't working properly, it won't be able to ignite the fuel in the engine and start the bike. This can be caused by a faulty spark plug, a bad ignition coil, or a malfunctioning ignition switch. You can check your spark plug and ignition coil for signs of wear or damage, and replace them if necessary. If you suspect that your ignition switch is the issue, you may need to take your bike to a mechanic to have it repaired or replaced.
4. Mechanical issues
If your motorcycle has mechanical issues, such as a seized engine or a broken timing chain, it won't start even if the engine turns over. These types of issues are more serious and may require extensive repairs. If you suspect that your bike has mechanical issues, you should take it to a mechanic to have it diagnosed and repaired.
What to do if your motorcycle won't start but turns over
If your motorcycle won't start but turns over, there are a few things that you can do to try and fix the issue:
- Check your battery and make sure it's charged and in good condition.
- Check your fuel system for clogs or debris.
- Check your ignition system for wear or damage.
- Check your motorcycle's manual for troubleshooting tips and instructions.
- If you're not comfortable doing the repairs yourself, take your bike to a mechanic.
Conclusion
If your motorcycle won't start but turns over, it can be frustrating and confusing. However, with a little bit of troubleshooting and some basic repairs, you can often fix the issue yourself. If you're not comfortable doing the repairs yourself, don't hesitate to take your bike to a mechanic. By addressing the issue promptly, you can get back to enjoying the thrill of the ride.
