i stalled my 2000 850gs at the lights the other day and tried to start it in gear, but it would not, had to find neutral.is this normal bike in gear, clutch in stand up but wont fire up
It's your clutch switch . Integrated into the clutch lever is a little switch . You can try and clean it up but most likely you need to replace it . The switch is at the thumb end of the clutch lever but you need to disassemble the switch gear a bit to get at it. The wiring runs down under the tank to a connector located on the left side of the frame. Disconnect it there and replace it. they aren't expensive so don't panic - it's not your gearbox failing
I had exactly the same problem with my 1100 a few weeks back - tested the switch and it was dead . It's not a big job so I'd bet money on it being that switch.
Let us know how you get on.
It may just be dirty so pull in the clutch lever and take a look in just where the cable disappears and you'll see a little button switch . A squirt of WD40 and a prod on the button may just loosen it if it's gummed up . Worth a try but I suspect it'll be just worn out like mine was.
Cheers
Gecko
If you are feeling adventurous and not glued to Eastenders - , whip the tank off and locate the connector (left side of the frame ) It's a white(ish) connector about an inch long. Disconnect it and with a little bit of wire , bridge the connections with the wire and then see if you can start the bike in gear . Don't forget to hold the clutch lever in !!!!! - if it starts you know the switch is faulty. If it doesn't start , first make sure that wire is touching the metal in the connector you are bridging - if it is well and truely making contact and it still doesn't work I'm afraid your problem lies elsewhere.