2009 Ninja 650R Won't Start - Please Help
 

2009 Ninja 650R Won't Start. 12,000 miles, oil changes every 3000, well maintained. The bike starts for a split second then cuts right back off. I replaced the fuel pump thinking that was what it was, but no dice. Can smell fuel from the exhaust when start attempt is made. Checked all the fuses, they're fine. Battery seems to be fine. Spark plugs were replaced about 1000 miles ago. Air filter was cleaned at same time as spark plugs. Ambient temperature makes no difference, does the same thing in 30 degree as 70 degree weather. Video below, any ideas? Thanks a lot!

Check your plugs and caps again, and while doing this, check to see if the tank vent is not pinched or plugged. What happens when you start the bike with the fuel cap up?

Back to the basics...fresh fuel, good (verified) spark, no obstructions in airbox or fuel path, tilt switch/sidestand switch/cutoff switch in proper position, tried starting fluid(?), battery good, will it bump start?

Same happens with fuel cap open. The fuel is down to about a gallon, so I'll add more. The other 3 gallons ran through fine before this happened. Would it start even for that brief time if it didn't have spark? Air intake path is clear. I guess the fuel path could be clogged somehow, injectors or otherwise, but I smell fuel when I try to start it. I've tried sidestand up/down, in neutral/in gear, clutch in/out -- same result. Could it be a bad vehicle down sensor? The battery is good, but I'll try a bump start. Haven't tried starting fluid(not familiar with it), but I'll research it. Thanks for the suggestions so far!

When does your "reserve" fuel kick-in? Have you checked your plugs after trying to start it? Are they wet? If you're "smelling fuel" it could just be vapor and not the actual gas getting to the plugs, because your petcock is on "reserve." (Yes, guys; I know how stupid that sounds...sorry.) Starting fluid can become addicting....don't overdo it, because it isn't real cylinder-friendly. It actually disperses the lube on your cylinder walls for a few split seconds. Bump-starting can be a work-out, especially for us OLD DUDES. Make sure you have on decently grippy shoes---flip flops verbotten. We're here..post up your results.

There is no reserve on my bike, nor petcock. Still at work, but I'm going to check out what I can when I get home.

tried bump starting, no dice. no time to pull it all apart tonight

So you have done both the self-diagnosis and the non-self diagnosis per 3-24 of your manual. What is stored in memory for a possible issue? The Vehicle down switch kills the injectors and the ignition system. That page also explains the procedure to reset that.

GADZ....what kind of bikes are they making these days?????

haha, ones with EFI and digital fuel gauges? :)