Starting Question

[old grouch]

I have a new to me 1997 Tourer.  It will only start in Neutral.  In gear with the sidestand up, clutch lever pulled all the way to the grip, the starter does not engage.  Is this normal?  I seem to remember that my 1999 I/S would start in gear with the sidestand up so long as the clutch was disengaged.  TIA  Stan

[sandy]

It sounds like the clutch switch is not making contact. Remove it and spray some contact cleaner between the contacts. You can see them when the switch is removed. Place a piece of paper between the contacts, close them and pull the paper out which may help clean them. Reinstall switch.

[Hook#3287]

What Sandy said.  Also, when you pull the lever in, you should hear a light "Click".  It's the switch in gauging.

If not, the lever or bushing  could be the problem.

Also check the wiring, I had a wire work loose from the switch once.

[Chiefy]

Check that your clutch lever is pulling all the way in without touching the handlebars.  If it is touching, the lever can't go far enough to bump the switch.  If so, loosen the bolts and move it around some until you can pull all the way without the lever and bar touching.  Previous owner may have moved it.

[pocobubba]

I put slip over foam grips on my I/S and the grip does not let the lever switch make contact unless I squeeze it real hard .

[old grouch]

Thanks guys.  I will check out those fixes.  Appreciate the help.     Stan