Starter spins, but not engaging

Sounds like a starter-clutch issue to me. You can remove the left engine cover to reveal the alternator and starter drive (drain the oil first or it will all spill out when you remove the cover). Engage the starter and if the starter-clutch ring-gear turns but the crank doesn't - it's your starter-clutch. I assume the starter-clutch is in pretty much the same position on the Tempter as it is on my 1100E's - behind the alternator rotor/flywheel. It's position makes it a pain to get to as the rotor/flywheel is a beast to get off even with the right tools.

Thank you, rustybronco.

[rustybronco]

#1 In this drawing

http://www.alpha-sports.com/spst/1983%20GR650/48.gif

Okay, thanks for the advice.

Haven't pulled the starter out since I got the bike, so it is spinning the right direction.

Assume the starter clutch drive is the pinion gear assembly?

Will check on all the items mentioned above.

At some point, I'm just hoping to ride this thing for more than a week at a time.

starter gear set up ''''''''''

hi i,d pull the left side off and check the springs and rollers and also stone smooth the sheet metal on the side for grooves /damage its not a hard job to do regards oldgrumpy

[tom203]

If you've messed with starter, make sure it's turning right direction. Otherwise, pull the cover and take a peak at starter clutch drive-

[Eli69]

possibly broken bolts on starter clutch. BTDT.

[oldrookie]

Hit the button, get a strong "whir" from the starter, but the bike won't start.

Something is not engaging.

Is this a symptom for which the "pull the starter and check the bushes and clean the commutator" procedure is recommended?

Can't tell from the manual whether that procedure is for a slow starter that won't spin up, or whether the lack of engagement in mine is likely to be helped.