Side stand switch

**skylark_za** · #1 12 Jul 2003

I have just purchased a 2nd hand 1986 XT600 Ténéré (1VJ) and I wasn't aware of the side stand switch. Please could somebody tell me the conditions under which this is effective.

The problem I have is that I haven't been able to start the bike, but I have been trying to start it whilst the stand has been in the "down" position. The starter motor turns the motor over and there is a spark for the spark plug.

If this is not a problem, then what may be preventing the bike from starting other than the obvious like no fuel.

Thanks for any advice offered.

**KlausXT600** · #2 12 Jul 2003

the sidestand switch has to prevent riding when sidestand is down.
if side stand is down and gear is not neutral the switch will kill ignition.
or in other words: as long as gearbox is in neutral position it should be possible to start the engine no matter wether the stand is up or down.
if there is a spark but engine doesn't start, sidestand switch can't be the reason.

regards
klaus

**skylark_za** · #3 12 Jul 2003

Klaus

Thanks for the info. Do you have info on how to bypass this switch?

[This message has been edited by skylark_za (edited 12 July 2003).]

**aukeboss** · #4 13 Jul 2003

You can bypass the switch by cutting the two wires going to it and connecting them. Make sure they make good contact and wrap in tape.

I'm sure, by the way, that some people will warn against bypassing the switch, and indeed some risk is involved. The question you should ask yourself is whether you are the type of person that would forget the side stand ....

Succes!
Auke

**DAVSATO** · #5 13 Jul 2003

its there to stop you riding away with the stand down, if its not faulty why would you want to bypass it?

------------------
dave

**Todd Bellew** · #6 13 Jul 2003

OK besides that I think clutch and side stand switches are for people that don't need to be riding something as complicated as a motorcycle.

Heres a good reason. IF you ride in rough terrain the stand can swing up and down just a bit. On some kinds of bikes (ie Suzuku DRZ) its just enough to cause the motor to hesitate when it thinks the stand is down. IMO a much worse situation. Since it only really occurs during fast hard riding, the worst time you want a hiccup.

PLus, when I'm ready to take off after mounting my bike with the stand down. I like just taking off and kicking the stand up at the same time ala air plane style.
I've Rode many years and had more wrecks in the garage(many) with kickstands than on the road(none). knock on wood.

Thanks,
Todd Bellew

PS is there a switch to remind you you haven't put the stand DOWN.

.

[This message has been edited by Todd Bellew (edited 13 July 2003).]