Starter Motors

About Starter Motors

The starter motor is the electric motor that turns the engine over when you press the start button. It is a hard-working part that draws a lot of current in a short time, and it can wear out after years of use. Riders replace one when the bike cranks slowly with a good battery, makes no sound at all, or whirs without turning the engine.

Start with fit. Starters are made for a particular engine and year range, and the listings here cover makes such as Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, KTM, Ducati, Polaris and Can-Am as well as Harley-Davidson. The bolt pattern, gear and connector all have to match. Some Harley listings show a power rating in kilowatts and a finish such as chrome or black. A higher-output starter is meant to turn over a larger or higher-compression engine, so use one only if the maker lists it for your model. The category also includes starter relays and drive parts for some models. Before you replace the motor, test the battery, cables and relay, because those are the more common causes of a no-crank problem.

Brands in this category include HardDrive, Drag Specialties, Parts Unlimited, ACCEL and All Balls. Related categories are Batteries, Relays and Fuses & Fuse Boxes. Pick your machine in the Ride Finder at the top of the page to see the starters listed for it.

FAQs on motorcycle starter motors

Is it the starter motor or the battery that has failed?

Test the battery first. If the lights dim or the bike cranks weakly, the battery or its connections are the likely cause. If the battery is healthy and the cables are clean and tight but the starter stays silent or only clicks, the starter motor or its relay is the next thing to check.

Can a bad starter relay act like a bad starter?

Yes. A failed starter relay or solenoid can click, or do nothing, while the starter motor is fine. Because the relay is a cheaper and simpler part, it is worth testing before you replace the whole starter. Your service manual describes how to check it.

Will a starter from another year or model fit my motorcycle?

Not reliably. Starters differ in mounting, gear and electrical connection, even within one brand. Use the year and model in the listing, or pick your machine in the Ride Finder, instead of assuming a part is interchangeable.

What does the kW rating on a starter mean?

It is the maker's power rating for the starter motor. A higher number means a stronger motor, which is meant for a larger or higher-compression engine. Use the output the maker lists for your model, and compare ratings only between starters that fit your engine.

Should I replace the starter drive parts when I replace the starter?

If the old starter was grinding or spinning without engaging, inspect the drive gear, clutch and the engine's ring gear for worn teeth. Fitting a new motor against worn parts can bring the same fault back. Check them against the service manual.