Engine dies only when in gear

[Easy Rider]

Originally Posted by bobganoosh

Easy Rider: How would I go about with the by-pass test? Just remove the relay?

Oops, I spoke too soon. Like the ignition switch, this is not a simple switch and it would appear that you can't simply short 2 wires together to disable it.

Let's forget about the relay for a while, OK, since it is not the most likely culprit.

More likely is a failure in the switch itself (located behind the kick stand) or the wiring leading away from it.

To keep running, that silver plunger must be pushed in by the arm attached to the kickstand.......and the contacts inside the switch must be making good contact. Is the spring on the stand broken, stretched or missing? Is the arm that is supposed to push in the plunger bent or broken? Is the switch itself bent, damaged or loose? Is the pivot on the stand too tight and binding?

It everything looks OK mechanically, that is the plunger goes in pretty much all the way and looks like it will stay there, then I'd try flushing the switch (plunger) with some alcohol and compressed air.

Unfortunately those switches are in a bad place; they collect a lot of water and dirt. Once they start going bad, it is usually best to get a new one.

It will be good to have a meter but you might not need it this time around.

Good luck!