You're making my point. Replacing the switch on the clutch lever changes nothing to do with the neutral safety switch.

 

I did break my clutch switch, thus needing a new one. I expected this was my problem. Why must I be in neutral to start the bike? Any guess to what my problem might be?

 

i thought the clutch switch is the neutral safety switch.

 

It is if clutch switch isn't bypassed bike can only start when it's in neutral or clutch lever is pulled in which closes the switch. Sidestand switch kills the engine if you attempt to put in gear with sidestand down.

 

yes, we're on the same page. I'd like it to work exactly as it's supposed to, as you explained, however mine does not. Mine will not start unless in neutral, regardless of pulled in lever.

Forget about kickstand, i understand how this works and it is functioning correct. When testing, kickstand is up.

 

Mine does the same... I can reach up with my right hand and jiggle the switch a little while the clutch is pulled and she'll turn over in gear. I may file a little off of the switch nub as I don't think it is extending far enough with the clutch pulled to complete the circuit..


Edit: Hey, now that I think about it.. I'm pretty sure mine is a Motion Pro clutch lever and it may not be quite to OEM spec. I can't remember if it would start in gear before I replaced the lever.


.

 

I now am more confused than ever, after reading this.
Video: Jay Clark Honda CRF450RX Tech Tip - Dirt Bikes

I guess mine never worked correctly. My problem is, and always has been; I must be in neutral to start the bike, clutch lever has no effect at all. What to do?

 

FIXED

It tuned out, my aftermarket break-away levers didn't open the switch enough to activate it. A simple lever adjustment and now it works as intended. The bike will start in gear as long as the clutch is pulled in, perfect.