I have a 2000 Ninja 500r, 2 time in the last week when I try to start it all that happens is a very quiet click coming from somewhere near the fuse box. I can push start it to get it going, and the ignition issue will be cleared up for the rest of the day. I don't think it's the battery since the lights function properly and the voltage on the battery is reading correctly. What would be the next thing I should check?

 

I say get another battery. Since a weak/dead cell does not carry the required amps for cranking.

 

That def. sounds like a battery issue. Take the battery to napa or autozone and have it load tested. You can get full voltage out of the battery when you throw a voltmeter on it, and even have your lights work, but if you don't have sufficient current (amps) then you won't get your starter to turn over.

Had a long time passed since the last time you rode the bike before each time you just got a click?

Don't know your experience with motorcycles, so don't be offended by this question, but do you turn the bike completely off? I've heard that turning the key off but leaving the ignition switch on can drain a battery.

 

hmmm ....now im confused....when my key is off, i dont ever turn off my ignition...i dont even know how i would...the key is off..therefore isnt the ignition off as well?

 

I don't have much experience with motorcycles either. It was just something I recall hearing at some point. I'm sure Chris will chime in at some point and set things straight.

 

/taps foot awaiting chris' infinite wisdom

 

Well, here's Vic's infinite wisdom. Hit it with a hammer. You have to understand, the hammer fixes all!