Never seen this question before on the board, so....

[garyheskett All 49 x 3 st.louis]

This morning I went to start the bike,(97 Standard, 120,000miles), and it didn't start right away. It was 39 degrees, so I used the choke, started like it does in cold weather.  Then, went to put it in gear and it died. Thought I forgot to put the kickstand up, but it was up. Started right up, put it in gear, it died. Did this 4-5 times, same result. Then with the RPMs at 3,000-4,000, it wouldn't die, but as I took off it was like you were turning the key off and on. Made it back to the garage. Took the other Valk and came back a couple hours later.  Started fine, runs fine in nuetral, put it in gear, died 3-4 times, then it runs in gear sitting still, but as I try to drive it, it is like you are turning the key on and off.  My first guess is the kickstand switch, but I ain't a mechanic and you guys seem to always know. Never seen this question before on the board, so what do you'all think?  It's pretty cold in the garage now, so checking a lot of things would take longer than posting the question, and I hate cold weather.  (I know, why am I riding the bike when its in the 30's if I hate cold weather, cause you just got to ride, right?)    Thanks in advance,   Gary

[KY,Dave (AKA Misunderstood)]

My 1st thought was also like you the kickstand switch since it's when you try to put in gear. Check for loose wires or connections and possibly replace the switch to see. I'm sure others with more experience will be along with other possibilities.

[Skinhead]

Hook a meter or a test light up to the KS switch, make sure it is open and closed when it is supposed to be.  If the switch shows good, check for loose connections.