What Causes a Motorcycle to Fail to Start and Make Abnormal Noises?

[SanLeo]

The reasons for a motorcycle failing to start and making abnormal noises can be attributed to the following four points: Carbon buildup on the spark plug: This makes it difficult to start the motorcycle. Dead battery: This is a relatively common issue and is very simple to resolve. Insufficient fuel: When a motorcycle has no power or insufficient fuel, it is definitely hard to start. Check the fuel level and refuel promptly if needed. Clogged carburetor: This is also a common problem. After prolonged use, some issues may arise. Cleaning the carburetor promptly can make riding easier.

[Aliyah]

It's quite common for motorcycles to fail to start and make clicking noises, with a dead battery being the prime suspect. Last time my bike had this issue, I heard a grinding sound like gears slipping during startup, and the voltage measured only 10 volts. If the battery terminals are loose or corroded, poor contact can even cause sparks. If the starter motor is jammed or the carbon brushes are worn out, it will just whine without starting. Try push-starting in second gear—if it works, it's likely a fuel pump issue. A clogged carburetor won’t make strange noises, but if the exhaust pops, it’s probably a fuel supply problem. Oh, and check if the 15-amp starter fuse in the fuse box is blown—if this little thing is broken, the motor won’t turn at all.

[DelAlexandra]

If you hear abnormal noises when starting the car, don't force the key. The grinding between the starter gear and engine flywheel makes a rattling sound that's painful to hear. I usually check in three steps: First, tap the fuel tank twice to listen for fuel sloshing - no buzzing from the fuel pump might indicate clogged fuel lines. Then remove the spark plug to check if the electrode is wet - strong gasoline smell suggests flooded cylinders, while dryness indicates fuel delivery issues. Finally, test the battery cables with a voltmeter - call for roadside assistance immediately if the red wire shows less than 12 volts. Once a friend's starter bearing failed, making tractor-like noises, which eventually led to crankcase damage due to leaking crankshaft oil seals.

[McKendra]

Difficulty starting with noise is mostly due to issues in the starting system, such as the relay buzzing but failing to power the motor. My car had this problem last month, and upon opening the side cover, I found the magneto coil burnt out with a strong burnt smell. Short carbon brushes can cause sparks, and if the output shaft is rusted, you can hear metal grinding. Remember to measure the battery's resting voltage; if it's below 11 volts, don't push it. If the gearbox is rattling, shut off the engine immediately and check the chain tensioner to avoid the chain damaging the cylinder block.