Ignition Problem

Hi - I have a Giantco Prince 125cc - which is basically a Chinese copy
of a Honda CG 125. It's only 6 months old and done 350 miles but has
had a starting problem.

When I turn the ignition on, the neutral light doesn't come on and the
engine won't start on the electric start button (it doesn't even
click). However the front and rear lights, horn and indicators all
work fine which suggested the battery is ok. To make sure, I tested
the battery on another bike and it's fine. I also put a known working
battery in the bike and exactly the same problem occurs with that
battery too.

The engine will start first time on the kickstart though. Then, if I
run the engine for about 10 minutes and switch the engine off, the
neutral light comes on and it will start first time on the electric
start button.

If I switch the engine off and let the bike cool down for an hour or
so, the problem starts all over again.

I thought that maybe the engine warming up was causing some expansion
somewhere, that was making good a faulty ground connection - which then
reverted to a faulty connection when the bike cooled down. However,
I've checked all connections and can't find anything obvious.

I haven't got a clue about the electrical workings on bikes so would
appreciate any help.

Thanks

 

I would be willing to be there is a kickstand safety switch on it. The
neutral switch is probably sticking. If the neutral light is not on, try
putting the kickstand up and pulling in the clutch while starting with the
electric starter.

Eric

 

Eric

You're right, there is a kickstand switch. Do you think it's possible
the kickstand switch is only working when the bike is warmed up? It
works fine once the bike has been running a while. (However, this bike
doesn't need a "clutch-in" start.)

I've stripped he bike down (fairing, seat & tank taken off) to check
every cable for breaks or faulty connections so will check the
kickstand switch first thing once it's all back togeher.

Thanks for the advice.

 

That is more in likely it, besides this one too. (Chinese copy)

 

Most likely the kickstand switch isn't positioned correctly.

It could also be that it's been mechaniced on by somebody
else who also wasn't quite sure what he was doing.

If at all possible, try to find a service manual and electrical
schematic. Even if you're not used to reading stuff like this
it'll still be less painful than trying to work without the manual.

 

Sorry - didn't undestand that. What one too?

 

Being a copy....