Bike won't start...ignition problem follow-up

[jcbdc]

The bike is giving a spark, it's getting its fuel.  I had it running for a couple of seconds and it had no power (no rpm change with the throttle) then it BACKFIRED and it refuses to start.  Also, the bike won't change gears.  I depress the clutch and can't get her out of neutral.  Does any body have an idea what's going on?

Could it be the clutch sensor/wires?  I hear the clutch cable move...but no click of the transmission now...is my clutch gone?

Your help would be appreciated.

[dgyver]

Your description sounds like it is running on one cylinder. If you can get it started....while it is running, pull one spark plug wire at a time to see if it is running on 1 cylinder. I had a similar problem which ended up being a corroded connector in the wire harness.

You may want to check the coils with a volt meter as well. There is a thread here that has the info on testing them. It was one of Kerry's many helpful posts. If I find it again, I will post the link.

You should be able to change gears without the bike running. May have to rotate the rear wheel to move the transmission to align the gears to shift. Also, check the cable adjustment.

Were there any issues (wreck, modifications, etc.) prior to having these problems?

[jcbdc]

To answer your question, I bought the bike about 3 weeks ago.  I've been driving it without any problems.  This past weekend I shortened the rear turn signals, and painted the battery tray.  The previous owner left the battery in for the winter and it leaked.  That's why I got a good deal on it. (And he bought a new Triumph).  It has a brand new battery.  I'm wondering if I have bad fuel.  Also I checked both sparkplugs and they are working.  (They didn't yesterday)  I goofed around with the connections and it sparks now.  Got her running then she backfired and quit...and can't get her to start again.  Annoying...it's a 1998...and she's in good shape..I just want to go riding.

:x

[werase643]

put a new set of plugs in....5 bucks